This article covers ウエスタンデジタル(Western Digital) WD ポータブルHDD 4TB USB Type-C ブルー My Passport Ultra 暗号化 パスワード保護 外付けハードディスク.

Overview

The Western Digital My Passport Ultra (model WDBFTM0040BBL-WESN) is a reliable portable hard drive that has been a popular choice for backup and storage. This 4TB variant features a USB-C interface with an included USB 3.0 adapter for backward compatibility. It offers 256-bit AES hardware encryption with password protection, ensuring your data stays secure even if the drive is lost. The drive comes pre-formatted for Windows and includes WD Backup software for automated backups. With a compact 2.5-inch form factor and a 3-year limited warranty, it's a solid choice for users who need large, portable storage at a reasonable price.

Compatibility Guide

The drive uses a USB-C connector, compatible with modern laptops and desktops that have USB-C ports. The included USB 3.0 adapter allows connection to older USB-A ports. It is formatted as NTFS for Windows 10/8.1/7 out of the box. For Mac users, reformatting to exFAT or HFS+ is required for full read/write support. The interface is USB 3.0 Gen1 (5 Gbps), but actual transfer speeds are limited by the HDD mechanics to around 100-150 MB/s. It is a 2.5-inch drive, so it fits easily in a bag or pocket.

Product Info

Released around 2018, the My Passport Ultra remains a current product. The 4TB model is priced around ¥35,800 (as of September 2026). It sits in the mid-to-high tier of portable HDDs, thanks to its hardware encryption and bundled backup software. The drive carries a 3-year warranty from Western Digital. Key specs include 4TB capacity, USB 3.0/USB-C connectivity, and 256-bit AES encryption. It is available in several colors; this model is blue.

Best Use Cases

  • Regular backup users: The included WD Backup software lets you schedule automatic backups, making it easy to protect photos, videos, and documents without manual effort. Ideal for users who want a set-and-forget solution.
  • Security-conscious users: With hardware encryption and password protection, this drive is perfect for carrying sensitive business or personal data. Even if the drive is lost or stolen, your files remain inaccessible.
  • USB-C laptop owners: If you have a modern laptop with USB-C (e.g., MacBook, Surface, Dell XPS), you can connect directly without any adapter. Note that speed is still USB 3.0 level.
  • Budget-conscious large storage seekers: Compared to SSDs, this HDD offers much lower cost per gigabyte. If you need 4TB for archival or backup and don't require fast access speeds, this is a cost-effective choice.

Things to Consider

As an HDD, this drive is slower and more fragile than an SSD. It is not suitable for tasks requiring fast random access, such as video editing or running applications directly from the drive. The USB-C interface is limited to USB 3.0 Gen1 speeds (5 Gbps), not the faster USB 3.1 Gen2 or Thunderbolt. For Mac users, reformatting is necessary, which erases all data. Competitors like Seagate Backup Plus and Toshiba Canvio Basics offer similar specs, but the My Passport Ultra stands out with its hardware encryption and backup software. If you need maximum portability and speed, consider a portable SSD instead.

FAQ

Q: Can I use this drive with a PlayStation or Xbox?
A: It may work if the console supports external USB storage. However, the drive is NTFS-formatted, and consoles often require exFAT or FAT32. You may need to reformat, which will erase existing data. Check your console's compatibility before purchasing.
Q: Can I connect it to a smartphone or tablet?
A: USB-C smartphones and tablets (e.g., iPad Pro, Android devices) may recognize the drive, but power draw can be an issue. An OTG cable or external power may be needed. Also, NTFS is read-only on many Android devices; reformatting to exFAT improves compatibility.
Q: Is the backup software available for Mac?
A: No, WD Backup is Windows-only. Mac users can use Time Machine after reformatting the drive to HFS+ or APFS. The hardware encryption feature is also available on Mac via WD Discovery software.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: ウエスタンデジタル(Western Digital)
  • Seller: Amazon.co.jp
  • Fulfilled by: Amazon.co.jp
  • ASIN: B07GKHQ9M6
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.