Is your MacBook Pro feeling a bit sluggish? Are you constantly running out of space, greeted by that dreaded “Startup Disk Full” message? If so, it might be time to consider a storage upgrade. While newer MacBook Pros have soldered-in SSDs, many older models, and even current ones, can benefit immensely from either an internal solid-state drive (SSD) upgrade or the addition of external storage. Finding the best SSD HDD for MacBook Pro can dramatically boost your machine’s performance, improve boot times, and give you the room you need for all your photos, videos, and projects.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the top 7 SSD and HDD solutions, catering to various MacBook Pro models and needs. Whether you’re looking for blazing-fast external storage, an internal overhaul, or a clever way to add a second drive, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to give your trusty MacBook Pro a new lease on life!
Understanding Your MacBook Pro Storage Options
Before we jump into our top picks, let’s quickly clarify some terms. An SSD (Solid State Drive) uses flash memory, offering incredibly fast read and write speeds, making your MacBook Pro feel much snappier. An HDD (Hard Disk Drive) uses spinning platters, offering larger capacities at a lower cost, but with slower performance. When looking for the best SSD HDD for MacBook Pro, remember that while external HDDs are still viable for mass storage, most performance upgrades will involve SSDs.
Our Top 7 Picks for MacBook Pro Storage Upgrades
Here’s our curated list of the best drives and solutions to supercharge your MacBook Pro.
1. SSK Portable SSD 1TB External Solid State Drives
This SSK Portable SSD is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for ultra-fast, convenient external storage. It’s incredibly compact and lightweight, making it perfect for professionals on the go or anyone needing quick access to large files without being tethered to their internal drive. What makes it stand out is its impressive speed combined with its low power consumption, allowing it to work seamlessly with mobile devices like iPhones for 4K ProRes video capture – a true game-changer for content creators.
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Key Features:
- Blazing-fast 10Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen2) speeds: up to 1050MB/s read, 1000MB/s write.
- S.M.A.R.T. monitoring and TRIM technology for drive health and longevity.
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables for broad compatibility.
- SLC caching ensures consistent high speeds for transfers under 250GB.
- Low power consumption (less than 2.4 Watts) supports iPhone 4K60Hz ProRes capture.
- Durable 2mm thick aluminum alloy case for superior heat dissipation.
- Extremely portable, weighing just 36.6g.
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Pros:
- Exceptional speed for an external drive.
- Highly portable and durable design.
- Excellent compatibility with various devices, including iPhones for video recording.
- Effective heat management prevents slowdowns.
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Cons:
- Capacity display may vary slightly between Windows and macOS.
- SLC caching buffer might affect sustained large transfers beyond 250GB, though still fast.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise this SSK drive for its lightning-fast transfer speeds and robust, pocket-friendly design. Many highlight its ease of use across multiple devices, particularly its performance with iPhones for demanding video tasks. Its compact size often surprises and delights.
2. Jorkar 1TB SSD Hard Drive for MacBook Pro A1708 NVMe
For owners of the specific MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017, Non-Touch Bar models), this Jorkar internal NVMe SSD is a direct, powerful upgrade. Unlike external drives, this replaces your existing internal storage, drastically boosting your system’s overall speed and responsiveness. The convenience of having macOS Catalina pre-installed is a huge plus, saving you the hassle of system installation and ensuring you can get up and running quickly. It’s a true internal performance upgrade for compatible models.
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Key Features:
- Direct internal SSD replacement for MacBook Pro A1708 (2016 EMC 2978, 2017 EMC 3164).
- High-speed PCIe NVMe: up to 2150 MB/s read, 1650 MB/s write (1TB model).
- Pre-installed macOS Catalina (10.15) for easy setup.
- Improves boot times, application loading, and overall system responsiveness.
- Includes encryption program for data security.
- Comes with a 5-year warranty and lifetime tech support.
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Pros:
- Significant internal speed boost over original drive.
- Pre-installed macOS simplifies installation for users.
- Dedicated to specific MacBook Pro models for guaranteed compatibility.
- Excellent warranty and customer support.
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Cons:
- Only compatible with very specific MacBook Pro A1708 non-Touch Bar models.
- Requires backing up data and updating original SSD to High Sierra or later before replacement.
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User Impressions: Customers love the “plug-and-play” aspect due to the pre-installed macOS, saving them time and effort. The noticeable performance improvement, especially in boot times and application launches, is a frequent highlight. The specialized compatibility means those with the right model find it an ideal solution.
3. 2nd 2.5” HDD SSD Hard Drive Caddy Tray Replacement for MacBook Pro (Unibody)
Got an older unibody MacBook Pro with an optical drive? This caddy tray is a clever solution to add a second internal drive, allowing you to run an SSD for your operating system and apps, and an HDD (or another SSD) for mass storage. It’s a cost-effective way to expand capacity and improve performance without discarding your existing drive. This product exemplifies how you can find the best SSD HDD for MacBook Pro not just as a standalone drive, but as an upgrade solution.
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Key Features:
- Replaces your 9.5mm unibody SuperDrive with a 2.5″ SATA drive bay.
- Compatible with MacBook Pro Unibody models (Late 2008 – Mid 2011).
- Fully integrated into the laptop, no external cables or drivers needed.
- Supports both 2.5″ HDDs and SSDs.
- Adds up to 500GB of additional internal space (depending on drive installed).
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Pros:
- Adds significant internal storage without replacing the primary drive.
- Allows for a flexible dual-drive setup (e.g., SSD for OS, HDD for data).
- Seamless integration into the laptop’s design.
- Cost-effective storage expansion for compatible models.
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Cons:
- Only fits specific unibody MacBook Pro models; not for non-unibody or Retina models.
- Requires removal of the optical drive (which may or may not be an issue for you).
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User Impressions: Users highly recommend this caddy for breathing new life into older MacBook Pros. The ability to add an SSD for speed and keep the original HDD for capacity is a big win. Installation is generally straightforward for those comfortable with basic laptop disassembly.
4. Crucial X9 Pro for Mac 2TB Portable SSD
The Crucial X9 Pro is a premium external portable SSD specifically optimized for Mac users. Its robust build, featuring IP55 water and dust resistance and impressive drop protection, makes it an excellent companion for creators and professionals who work in challenging environments. The pre-optimization for Apple’s file system (APFS) ensures seamless compatibility and performance with your Mac ecosystem, providing quick, reliable access to large media files.
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Key Features:
- High-speed performance: up to 1050MB/s read and 1050MB/s write speeds.
- IP55 water and dust resistance, plus 7.5 ft (2 meters) drop protection.
- Optimized for Apple’s file system (APFS) for seamless Mac compatibility.
- Broad compatibility with iMac, MacBook, Mac Mini, iPad Pro, iPhone 16, and other devices via USB-C/A.
- Includes a lanyard loop, activity light, and SSD password protection.
- Bonus software: 3 months of Mylio Photos+ and Acronis True Image.
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed and rugged durability.
- Specifically optimized for Mac, ensuring smooth operation.
- Strong security features with password protection.
- Wide compatibility across various platforms.
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Cons:
- Premium price point for its features and capacity.
- While fast, it’s not the absolute fastest external drive on the market (some reach 2000MB/s).
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User Impressions: Mac users particularly appreciate the “optimized for Mac” aspect, noting smooth performance and easy integration. Its compact size and robust feel are frequently mentioned as positives, making it a trusted companion for mobile workflows.
5. SanDisk 2TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD
If ultimate speed and ruggedness are your top priorities for an external drive, the SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD is a powerhouse. Featuring NVMe solid-state performance, it pushes transfer speeds up to 2000MB/s, making it ideal for editing high-resolution video directly from the drive or transferring massive files in seconds. Its forged aluminum chassis acts as a heatsink, ensuring sustained performance, while its extreme durability means you can take it anywhere without worry.
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Key Features:
- Powerful NVMe performance with up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds.
- Forged aluminum chassis for heat dissipation and sustained speeds.
- Extreme durability: up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water/dust resistance.
- 256-bit AES hardware encryption for robust password protection.
- Handy carabiner loop for secure attachment.
- SanDisk Memory Zone app for file management and space freeing.
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Pros:
- Blazing-fast transfer speeds, perfect for demanding workflows.
- Extremely durable and resistant to environmental hazards.
- Excellent heat management for consistent performance.
- Strong data security features.
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Cons:
- Higher price tag due to its top-tier performance and durability.
- Full speed potential requires compatible USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports, which not all MacBook Pros have.
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User Impressions: Professional videographers and photographers consistently rave about the SanDisk Extreme PRO’s speed and reliability. Its ruggedness provides peace of mind for field work, and the consistent high performance, even with large files, is a major selling point.
6. UGREEN USB C Hard Drive Enclosure for 2.5″ SATA SSD & HDD
Sometimes, the best solution isn’t a new drive, but a way to utilize an existing one. The UGREEN USB C Hard Drive Enclosure allows you to transform any 2.5″ SATA SSD or HDD into a high-speed external drive. This is incredibly useful for repurposing an old MacBook Pro hard drive, using it for backups, or creating portable storage from a spare internal drive. Its tool-free installation and wide compatibility make it a versatile accessory for any MacBook Pro user.
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Key Features:
- Supports 6Gbps max transfer speed with UASP acceleration (70% faster than traditional USB 3.0).
- USB-C (USB 3.1 Gen 2) port with included USB-C to USB-C cable.
- Built-in ASM235CM chipset and aluminum alloy case for excellent heat dissipation.
- Compatible with most 2.5″ SATA III/II/I HDD & SSD up to 6TB.
- Tool-free installation and plug-and-play operation.
- Broad compatibility with Windows, Mac OS, Linux, game consoles, Smart TV, Router, etc.
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Pros:
- Cost-effective way to create external storage from existing drives.
- High transfer speeds with UASP support.
- Excellent heat dissipation keeps drives cool.
- Super easy, tool-free installation.
- Versatile compatibility across many devices.
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Cons:
- Requires you to provide your own 2.5″ SATA drive.
- Performance is limited by the speed of the enclosed drive (SATA drives are slower than NVMe).
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User Impressions: Reviewers frequently praise this UGREEN enclosure for its simplicity and effectiveness. The tool-free design is a consistent highlight, and users appreciate its solid build quality and reliable performance for turning old drives into useful external storage.
7. Padarsey 2nd HDD SSD Hard Drive Caddy Tray Replacement for MacBook Pro (Older Models)
Similar to the previous caddy, this Padarsey tray offers another excellent option for older MacBook Pro models (specifically 2008-2012 Unibody) with optical drives. It allows you to replace your SuperDrive with a second 2.5-inch SATA hard drive or SSD, providing a flexible way to add storage or create a fusion drive setup. It’s a lifesaver for those who want to boost their MacBook Pro’s storage without ditching their original primary drive or relying solely on external solutions.
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Key Features:
- Adds a second 2.5-inch SATA HDD or SSD (9.5mm/7mm/5mm high) by replacing the optical drive.
- Fully integrated into the laptop; no cables or drivers needed.
- Supports hot-swapping and plug & play.
- Compatible with a wide range of MacBook Pro 13-inch A1278 (2009-2012), 15-inch A1286 (2008-2012), and 17-inch A1297 (2009-2011) models.
- Includes a universal repair tool (if B07S9YFQJH is needed, suggesting a separate purchase for tools).
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Pros:
- Great for expanding internal storage on older MacBook Pro models.
- Allows for flexible dual-drive setups (e.g., SSD for OS, HDD for data).
- Seamless internal integration, keeping your workspace tidy.
- Supports a variety of 2.5-inch drives.
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Cons:
- Requires sacrificing the optical drive.
- Specific compatibility list means it won’t work for all MacBook Pros (e.g., Retina models).
- The “universal repair tool” might not be included directly, requiring a separate purchase.
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User Impressions: Users report that this caddy works exactly as advertised, making it easy to add a second drive. Many found it to be an essential upgrade for their older machines, drastically improving performance by allowing them to run macOS on a fast SSD while keeping a large HDD for media.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the main difference between an SSD and an HDD for my MacBook Pro?
A1: The key difference is speed and how data is stored. SSDs (Solid State Drives) use flash memory and have no moving parts, making them incredibly fast, durable, and quiet. HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) use spinning platters and read/write heads, making them slower and more susceptible to damage but generally cheaper for large capacities. For a MacBook Pro, an SSD will provide a dramatic performance boost.
Q2: Can I upgrade the internal storage of my MacBook Pro?
A2: It depends on your MacBook Pro model. Older models (pre-2016) often have user-replaceable drives, typically SATA SSDs or HDDs. Some 2016-2017 models (like the A1708 featured here) have proprietary NVMe SSDs that can be upgraded. Newer MacBook Pros (2018 onwards) typically have SSDs soldered directly onto the logic board, making internal upgrades impossible. For these, external SSDs are your best bet.
Q3: Which type of SSD do I need: SATA or NVMe?
A3: SATA SSDs are a common interface, widely compatible with older MacBook Pros (often replacing an HDD). NVMe SSDs are much faster, utilizing the PCIe bus, and are found in newer, more performance-oriented machines. If you’re looking for the absolute best SSD HDD for MacBook Pro in terms of speed, an NVMe internal or external drive is generally the way to go. Your MacBook Pro’s model will determine which interface it supports for internal upgrades.
Q4: Is it difficult to install an internal SSD in a MacBook Pro?
A4: For older models, it’s generally straightforward and can be a DIY project with the right tools and a good guide (like those from iFixit). Newer models with proprietary SSDs can be more complex due to the specific connectors and potential need for software configuration, as seen with the Jorkar A1708 SSD. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult a professional.
Q5: What are the main benefits of using an external SSD with my MacBook Pro?
A5: External SSDs offer several advantages: they significantly boost data transfer speeds for large files, provide expandable storage for models where internal upgrades aren’t possible, serve as excellent backup drives, and allow for portable media libraries or even running an OS from the external drive. They’re also usually plug-and-play, requiring no internal modifications.
Q6: How much storage capacity do I really need?
A6: This depends entirely on your usage.
– 256GB-512GB: Suitable for basic use, web browsing, documents, and light media consumption. You’ll likely need external storage for photos/videos.
– 1TB: A good balance for most users, offering ample space for applications, documents, and a decent amount of media.
– 2TB+: Ideal for creative professionals working with large video files, high-resolution photos, or extensive game libraries. It provides much more breathing room.
Q7: Will an SSD upgrade improve my MacBook Pro’s battery life?
A7: Yes, generally. SSDs consume less power than traditional HDDs because they have no moving parts. Upgrading from an HDD to an SSD can lead to a slight improvement in battery life, as the drive uses less energy and can access data more quickly, meaning it’s active for shorter periods.
Q8: Can I use an external hard drive enclosure with any 2.5-inch drive?
A8: Most 2.5-inch hard drive enclosures are designed for SATA drives (HDDs or SSDs). So, if your old drive is a standard 2.5-inch SATA connection, an enclosure like the UGREEN one we reviewed would work perfectly. Always double-check the enclosure’s compatibility specifications, especially regarding drive thickness and interface.
Conclusion
Upgrading your MacBook Pro’s storage, whether internally or externally, is one of the most impactful ways to improve its performance and extend its lifespan. From the blazing speeds of external NVMe SSDs to the clever internal expansion offered by caddy trays, there’s a solution for nearly every MacBook Pro model and budget.
We hope this guide to the best SSD HDD for MacBook Pro has helped you find the perfect storage upgrade to keep your machine running smoothly and efficiently for years to come!