Is your MacBook Pro feeling a bit sluggish? Running out of storage space for your creative projects, extensive photo library, or ever-growing application collection? Upgrading your internal solid-state drive (SSD) is one of the most impactful ways to breathe new life into your beloved Apple machine. A faster, larger 512 SSD hard drive for MacBook Pro can dramatically improve boot times, application loading, and overall system responsiveness.
While Apple’s built-in SSDs are notoriously difficult and expensive to upgrade directly for newer models, many older MacBook Pros (and even some newer ones with specific adapters) offer excellent upgrade opportunities. Plus, external SSDs provide a fantastic way to expand storage for any MacBook Pro model without opening it up.
Choosing the best 512 SSD hard drive for MacBook Pro involves looking at compatibility, speed, reliability, and of course, your budget. We’ve scoured the market to bring you our top 10 picks, covering both internal and external options, to help you find the perfect storage solution. Let’s dive in!
Our Top 10 Picks for MacBook Pro 512GB SSDs
Here’s a detailed look at some of the best 512GB SSD options available, designed to enhance your MacBook Pro experience.
1. Jorkar A1708 SSD Hard Drive 512GB for MacBook Pro NVMe
The Jorkar A1708 SSD is a tailor-made internal upgrade for specific MacBook Pro models, making it a fantastic plug-and-play solution for those with compatible non-Touch Bar machines. It comes pre-installed with macOS High Sierra, which is a huge convenience, saving you the hassle of creating bootable installers from scratch. This drive is designed to significantly boost your MacBook Pro’s speed and storage, delivering noticeable improvements in daily tasks.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with MacBook Pro A1708 (2016 EMC 2978, 2017 EMC 3164) – Non-Touch Bar Models Only.
- Pre-installed with MacOS High Sierra 10.13 for quick setup.
- Increases capacity and processing speed.
- Read speeds up to 2150 MB/s, Write speeds up to 1650 MB/s (1TB model, 512GB will be slightly less).
- Supports faster boot times, application loading, and system responsiveness.
- Includes encryption for data protection.
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Pros:
- Specific compatibility for A1708 models.
- Comes pre-loaded with macOS, simplifying installation.
- Significant speed and capacity upgrade over original drives.
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Cons:
- Strict compatibility requirements (model and EMC must match).
- Only for non-Touch Bar models.
- Requires macOS upgrade post-installation if a newer OS is desired.
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User Impressions: Users highly appreciate the direct compatibility and the convenience of a pre-loaded OS, making the upgrade process much smoother. Many report a substantial performance boost, although some emphasize the need to double-check model numbers meticulously.
- See it on Amazon here
2. SSK Portable SSD 500GB External Solid State Drives
When opening your MacBook Pro isn’t an option or you need versatile storage on the go, the SSK Portable SSD is a superb choice. This external drive offers blazing-fast transfer speeds, making it ideal for large file transfers, running virtual machines, or even capturing 4K ProRes video directly from an iPhone. Its compact, lightweight design and robust build quality make it perfect for professionals and casual users alike who need reliable external storage.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen2 interface with read speeds up to 1050MB/s and write up to 1000MB/s.
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for broad compatibility.
- Supports S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM technology for drive health and longevity.
- SLC caching ensures consistent high speeds for large file transfers (under 150GB).
- Designed for 4K60Hz ProRes HDR video capture with iPhone.
- Durable 2mm thick aluminum alloy case for superior heat dissipation.
- Extremely portable at just 36.6g and compact dimensions.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for an external drive.
- Wide compatibility with USB-C and USB-A devices.
- Excellent for professional media workflows.
- Durable, lightweight, and efficient heat dissipation.
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Cons:
- External drive, so it occupies a port and isn’t integrated.
- Display capacity might show slightly less on Windows systems due to algorithms.
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User Impressions: Customers love the SSK’s incredible speed and compact form factor. It’s often praised for its performance with large video files and its robust build quality, making it a reliable companion for mobile work.
- See it on Amazon here
3. FLEANE FM17A 512GB PCIE 3.0×4 NVME 3D NAND TLC Flash
The FLEANE FM17A is another excellent internal SSD upgrade specifically for the MacBook Pro Retina A1708 (Late 2016-Mid 2017 Non-Touch Bar models). What sets this package apart is its comprehensive inclusion of tools and a bootable installer, making the DIY upgrade process as straightforward as possible. With speedy read and write performance, it’s a solid choice to revitalize your compatible MacBook Pro.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with MacBook Pro Retina A1708 Late 2016-Mid 2017 (EMC 2978, 3164) – Non-Touch Bar only.
- Comes with 1 x A1708 512GB SSD (pre-loaded with Catalina), 1 x 16GB USB Bootable Installer (Big Sur), 2 x Screwdrivers, 1 x USB to Type-C Adapter.
- PCIe 3.0×4 3D TLC NAND Flash.
- Fast speeds: Read up to 1950MB/s, Write up to 1500MB/s.
- 3-year worry-free warranty.
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Pros:
- Complete DIY kit with pre-loaded OS and bootable installer.
- Solid read/write speeds for an internal upgrade.
- Good warranty period.
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Cons:
- Strict compatibility for specific A1708 models.
- Requires macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later to be installed before upgrading the SSD for firmware update.
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User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate the all-inclusive package, particularly the screwdrivers and pre-loaded OS. The drive delivers a noticeable performance improvement, though some stress the importance of following the macOS update prerequisite.
- See it on Amazon here
4. SP 512GB SSD 3D NAND A55 SLC Cache Performance Boost
The SP A55 is a general-purpose 2.5-inch SATA III internal SSD. While not a direct blade-style NVMe replacement for most modern MacBook Pros, it’s an excellent choice for older MacBook Pro models that still utilize 2.5-inch SATA hard drives (typically pre-2012 models) or for use in an external enclosure. Its 3D NAND flash and SLC Cache technology ensure reliable performance and a longer lifespan, offering a significant upgrade over traditional spinning hard drives.
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Key Features:
- 3D NAND flash for high transfer speeds and durability.
- Advanced SLC Cache Technology for performance boost and extended lifespan.
- Slim 7mm design suitable for notebooks.
- Supports TRIM command, Garbage Collection, RAID, and ECC for optimized performance and reliability.
- 3-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Cost-effective upgrade for older SATA-based MacBook Pros.
- Reliable 3D NAND and performance-enhancing SLC cache.
- Good for general purpose use or external enclosures.
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Cons:
- Not compatible with the blade-style SSD slots of most modern (post-2012) MacBook Pros.
- Slower than NVMe PCIe SSDs.
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User Impressions: This drive is popular for its reliability and value. Users find it a straightforward and effective upgrade for older laptops or as a robust drive for external backups and everyday storage.
- See it on Amazon here
5. SanDisk 1TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD – Up to 2000MB/s
For the ultimate in external performance and ruggedness, the SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD stands out. While listed here in 1TB, its capabilities are equally impressive for a 512GB equivalent if available. It leverages powerful NVMe technology to deliver incredibly fast read/write speeds, making it ideal for professionals working with massive files like 4K video editing or large design projects. Plus, its durable design with drop protection and IP65 water/dust resistance means it can handle demanding environments.
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Key Features:
- Powerful NVMe solid state performance with up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds.
- Forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink for sustained high speeds.
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance.
- Handy carabiner loop for secure attachment.
- Included password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption.
- SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management and space optimization.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for an external drive.
- Extremely rugged and durable for outdoor or demanding use.
- Effective heat management for sustained performance.
- Hardware encryption for enhanced data security.
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Cons:
- Premium price point.
- External drive, so not an internal upgrade.
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User Impressions: This SSD consistently receives rave reviews for its unparalleled speed and durability. Users, especially content creators, highly recommend it for its ability to handle intensive tasks and its peace-of-mind ruggedness.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Timetec 512GB MAC SSD Compatible for Apple MacBook Air
Timetec offers a dedicated 512 SSD hard drive for MacBook Pro and Air models, focusing on compatibility and ease of installation. This NVMe PCIe Gen3x4 SSD is designed for a range of Apple models from Mid 2013 to Mid 2017, providing a substantial speed and capacity upgrade. It’s a solid choice for users looking for a reliable internal replacement without needing an adapter.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with specific MacBook Air (Mid 2013-Mid 2017), MacBook Pro (Late 2013-Mid 2015), iMac, Mac Pro, and Mac Mini models.
- NVMe PCIe Gen3x4 3D NAND TLC SSD.
- Sequential Read Speed up to 2,000MB/s and Write Speed up to 1,500MB/s.
- Industry-leading 1,500,000 hours Mean Time To Failure (MTTF).
- Supports TRIM command functions.
- Three years limited warranty with US-based technical support.
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Pros:
- Wide range of specific Mac model compatibility.
- Strong performance for internal upgrade.
- Excellent reliability rating (MTTF).
- US-based customer support.
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Cons:
- Requires macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later to be installed on the host computer before installing the new SSD.
- Not compatible with Apple Boot Camp for Windows installation on certain models.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise Timetec for its broad compatibility with older Mac models and the noticeable speed improvements. The customer support is also a highlight, helping users through the installation process.
- See it on Amazon here
7. INDMEM 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD 3D TLC NAND Flash Hard
The INDMEM 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD is another internal upgrade option for specific MacBook Pro and Air models, built with a focus on reliable performance. Utilizing a Silicon Motion Controller and 3D TLC NAND Flash, it aims to deliver consistent speed and durability. Like other internal Mac-specific SSDs, it emphasizes the crucial macOS update prerequisite, ensuring a smooth transition.
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Key Features:
- Built with Silicon Motion Controller, 3D TLC NAND Flash.
- PCIe NVMe Gen3*4 SSD with Read speeds up to 1800MB/s, Write up to 1400MB/s.
- TRIM, NCQ, and S.M.A.R.T support.
- MTBF: 1 million hours.
- Official website provides detailed installation instructions and troubleshooting.
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Pros:
- Reliable Silicon Motion controller and 3D TLC NAND.
- Good read/write speeds for an internal upgrade.
- Comprehensive online support and guides.
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Cons:
- Requires updating original SSD to macOS 10.13 or later before replacement for firmware update.
- Requires formatting and macOS installation on the new drive.
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User Impressions: Customers find the INDMEM SSD to be a dependable upgrade, especially appreciating the detailed installation guides available online. It provides a solid performance boost, making older Macs feel much more responsive.
- See it on Amazon here
8. FLEANE FM13A 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD with DIY Tools for
Similar to its A1708 counterpart, the FLEANE FM13A focuses on providing a direct, no-adapter upgrade path for a broader range of older MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and iMac models. This 512 SSD hard drive for MacBook Pro comes as a complete kit, including essential screwdrivers and bootable macOS installers, simplifying the DIY process. Its 1:1 design ensures a perfect fit, providing excellent speed and capacity.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with MacBook Air A1465 A1466 (Mid2013-Mid2017), MacBook Pro A1502 A1398 (Late2013-Mid2015), iMac A1418 A1419 (Late2013-Mid2017).
- 512GB NVMe 3D TLC NAND PCIe 3.0 x4 SSD.
- Read speeds up to 1850MB/s, Write up to 1450MB/s.
- 1:1 design according to original SSD interface, no adapter needed.
- Includes pre-loaded Catalina SSD, 16GB USB Big Sur installer, 2 screwdrivers, and detailed installation guide.
- 3-year worry-free warranty.
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Pros:
- Broad compatibility with popular older MacBook Air/Pro and iMac models.
- Complete DIY kit with tools and pre-loaded OS.
- Direct fit, no adapter required.
- Good performance upgrade.
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Cons:
- Requires macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later installed before upgrading for firmware update.
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User Impressions: Users highly recommend this FLEANE SSD for its comprehensive kit and straightforward installation. The direct fit and included tools are frequently praised, making it an accessible upgrade for many.
- See it on Amazon here
9. GAMERKING 1TB NVMe SSD for Apple MacBook Air A1465 A1466
Though listed as 1TB, GAMERKING also offers a 512GB variant that brings serious performance to compatible MacBook Pro and Air models. Designed with a 1:1 fit, this NVMe PCIe Gen 3.0×4 SSD eliminates the need for adapters, offering a powerful boost for demanding tasks like video editing and gaming. Its advanced features like 3D NAND TLC flash, TRIM, and dynamic thermal guard technology ensure both speed and stability.
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Key Features:
- 1:1 design for direct adaptation to original interface, no adapter needed.
- Compatible with various MacBook Air (Mid 2013-2017) and MacBook Pro (Late 2013-Mid 2015) models.
- NVMe PCIe Gen 3.0×4 technology with read/write speeds up to 2450MB/s / 1850MB/s (for 1TB, 512GB will be slightly less).
- Features 3D NAND TLC flash, supports NCQ, TRIM, SMART, ECC, Bad block management, Wear leveling, and built-in encryption.
- Dynamic thermal guard technology for system stability.
- 5-year warranty.
- Package includes SSD and 2 screwdrivers.
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Pros:
- Excellent speed for an internal upgrade.
- Direct fit for compatible models, no adapter.
- Advanced features for performance and data integrity.
- Very generous 5-year warranty.
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Cons:
- Requires macOS update before installation.
- No pre-loaded OS, requires fresh installation.
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User Impressions: This SSD is frequently praised for its impressive speed and robust build. The longer warranty period instills confidence, and users report a dramatic performance improvement, especially for creative workflows.
- See it on Amazon here
10. KingSpec 512GB 2.5 SSD SATA III Internal
The KingSpec 2.5″ SATA III SSD is a versatile internal drive, perfect for older MacBook Pro models that still use a traditional 2.5-inch hard drive bay. While it won’t fit the blade-style SSD slots of newer MacBook Pros, it’s an excellent choice for a significant performance upgrade in pre-2012 machines or for use in a USB external enclosure. Its 3D NAND flash and SATA III interface deliver reliable performance, much faster than a spinning HDD.
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Key Features:
- 2.5-inch SATA III interface (6Gb/s), backward compatible with SATA II.
- Max Sequential read speeds up to 550 MB/s, write speeds up to 520 MB/s.
- Adopts 3D NAND flash memory.
- Shockproof, anti-drop, quiet, low power consumption.
- Supports wear leveling, garbage collection, TRIM, S.M.A.R.T, etc.
- Wide compatibility with laptops, desktops, and all-in-one computers (Windows, DOS, Linux, Unix).
- 3-year limited warranty.
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Pros:
- Cost-effective way to upgrade older SATA-based Macs.
- Much faster than traditional HDDs.
- Highly reliable and durable.
- Can be used in an external USB enclosure for any MacBook Pro.
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Cons:
- Not compatible with the blade-style SSD slots of most MacBook Pros (2012 and later).
- Slower than NVMe PCIe SSDs.
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User Impressions: Users typically find this KingSpec SSD to be a great value, providing a noticeable speed boost for older systems or as a dependable drive for external storage solutions. Its reliability and quiet operation are often highlighted.
- See it on Amazon here
What to Consider When Buying a 512 SSD Hard Drive for MacBook Pro
Choosing the right SSD can seem daunting, but here’s a quick guide to help you out:
- Internal vs. External: If your MacBook Pro is an older model (roughly pre-2016) or a specific non-Touch Bar model, an internal upgrade is often possible and highly recommended for integrated performance. For all other models or for portable storage, an external SSD is the way to go.
- Compatibility is Key: For internal SSDs, always double-check your MacBook Pro’s model year and EMC number. Apple often uses proprietary connectors, so generic NVMe or SATA SSDs won’t work without specific adapters (which aren’t always reliable).
- NVMe vs. SATA: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs are significantly faster than SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) SSDs. Most modern MacBook Pros use NVMe internally. If you’re upgrading an older machine that uses SATA, a SATA SSD will still be a huge leap over a traditional hard drive.
- macOS Version Prerequisite: Many third-party internal MacBook Pro SSDs require that your original SSD be updated to macOS High Sierra (10.13) or later before you swap it out. This is crucial for updating your MacBook Pro’s firmware to recognize the new drive. Don’t skip this step!
- Installation Difficulty: Internal upgrades can range from simple (for models with easy access) to complex. If you’re not comfortable opening your Mac, consider professional installation or opt for an external drive.
- Brand Reputation & Warranty: Stick with reputable brands known for quality and customer support. A good warranty (3-5 years) offers peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why should I upgrade my MacBook Pro’s SSD?
A: Upgrading your MacBook Pro’s SSD (Solid State Drive) is one of the most effective ways to boost its performance. You’ll experience significantly faster boot times, quicker application loading, smoother multitasking, and overall snappier system responsiveness compared to traditional hard drives or even older, slower SSDs. It also expands your storage capacity for photos, videos, and applications.
Q2: Is it better to get an internal or external 512 SSD hard drive for my MacBook Pro?
A: It depends on your MacBook Pro model and needs. An internal SSD offers the best integrated performance and doesn’t occupy a port. However, internal upgrades are only feasible for specific older models or newer ones with complex adapters. An external SSD is universally compatible with any MacBook Pro via USB-C or Thunderbolt, is easy to install (just plug it in), and offers portable storage, but it uses a port.
Q3: How do I check my MacBook Pro’s compatibility for an internal SSD upgrade?
A: For internal SSDs, compatibility is critical due to Apple’s proprietary connectors.
1. Go to Apple menu > About This Mac.
2. Note your MacBook Pro’s Model Identifier (e.g., MacBookPro11,1) and Year (e.g., Mid 2014).
3. For some models, you’ll also need the EMC number, which is often printed on the bottom of your MacBook Pro.
Compare these details exactly with the product’s compatibility list.
Q4: Do I need to update my macOS before installing a new internal SSD?
A: Yes, for many third-party internal SSDs, especially NVMe drives, it’s absolutely crucial. You must update your original SSD to macOS High Sierra (10.13) or a later version before you remove it. This update contains critical EFI firmware updates that enable your MacBook Pro to recognize and work with the new SSD. Failure to do so will likely result in the new SSD not being detected.
Q5: What’s the difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs for a MacBook Pro?
A: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs use the PCIe interface, which provides much higher bandwidth and significantly faster read/write speeds (often thousands of MB/s) compared to SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) SSDs (typically up to 550 MB/s). Most modern MacBook Pros use NVMe internally. If you have an older MacBook Pro (pre-2012) that originally came with a spinning hard drive, it likely uses SATA.
Q6: Can I install a new internal SSD myself, or should I get professional help?
A: Installing an internal SSD can range from relatively straightforward (for older models like the MacBook Pro 2012 Retina) to extremely difficult or near impossible for newer, more integrated models. Some third-party SSDs for Macs come with tools and guides, making DIY possible for the mechanically inclined. However, if you’re not comfortable opening your MacBook Pro, handling delicate components, or potentially damaging internal cables, it’s best to consult a professional to avoid costly mistakes.
Q7: Will installing a new SSD void my MacBook Pro’s warranty?
A: For newer MacBook Pro models (roughly 2016 and later), Apple’s design makes internal upgrades very difficult or impossible without specialized tools and significant risk of damage, which would likely void your warranty. For older models (especially those with user-upgradable components like RAM or easily accessible SSDs), replacing the SSD with a third-party drive might not void the entire warranty, but Apple typically won’t cover issues arising from the third-party part itself or damage caused during installation. It’s always best to check Apple’s official policy for your specific model or consult an authorized service provider.
Q8: How should I back up my data before upgrading my MacBook Pro’s SSD?
A: Absolutely essential! Before any internal upgrade, always back up your entire system. You can use Apple’s built-in Time Machine feature with an external hard drive, or create a bootable clone of your current SSD using third-party software like Carbon Copy Cloner or SuperDuper!. This ensures you can restore your data and operating system to the new drive if needed.