Is your beloved MacBook Pro feeling a bit sluggish? Running out of precious storage space? You’re not alone! Many Mac users, especially those with older models, find themselves hitting performance walls as software demands grow and their media libraries expand. The good news? An SSD upgrade can breathe new life into your machine, making it feel brand new without breaking the bank on a completely new laptop. And when it comes to reliable performance, Sabrent often comes to mind, especially for NVMe storage.
While directly swapping out an SSD in some older MacBook Pros can be a bit tricky due to Apple’s proprietary connectors, there are fantastic solutions available. We’ll explore how to achieve the Sabrent best SSD upgrade for MacBook Pro experience, whether through adapters for internal NVMe drives or super-fast external options. We’ve dug deep to bring you 7 top solutions that can help you transform your Mac’s speed and capacity. Let’s dive in!
Why Upgrade Your MacBook Pro’s SSD?
Before we jump into the products, let’s quickly touch on why an SSD upgrade is such a game-changer:
- Blazing Fast Speeds: Modern SSDs, especially NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) drives, offer significantly faster read and write speeds compared to older SATA SSDs or traditional hard drives. This means quicker boot times, faster app launches, and smoother file transfers.
- Improved Responsiveness: Everything from opening large creative files to browsing the web feels snappier.
- Increased Storage Capacity: Easily expand your storage, giving you more room for photos, videos, applications, and documents.
- Extended Lifespan: A faster, more capacious SSD can make your MacBook Pro viable for several more years, delaying the need for an expensive new purchase.
Ready to supercharge your Mac? Here are our top picks for upgrading your MacBook Pro’s storage, with a keen eye on how Sabrent’s high-performance drives fit into the picture.
Our Top 7 Solutions for MacBook Pro SSD Upgrades
1. Sintech NGFF M.2 nVME SSD Adapter Card for Upgrade…
This isn’t an SSD itself, but it’s often the crucial first step for many users seeking the Sabrent best SSD upgrade for MacBook Pro on older models (2013-2015). This adapter card allows you to install a standard M.2 NVMe SSD (like many high-performance Sabrent drives) into your MacBook Pro’s proprietary SSD slot. It’s a bridge to modern, faster storage, opening up a world of possibilities for speed and capacity that was previously inaccessible without specific, often more expensive, Apple-compatible drives.
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Key Features:
- Enables installation of standard M.2 NVMe SSDs (like Sabrent, Samsung, Intel, WD, etc.) into compatible MacBook Pro models.
- Supports various popular NVMe SSD brands including Adata, Corsair, Crucial, HP, Intel, Toshiba, Samsung (960/970 Evo/Pro), and WD.
- Comes with a black film covering pins and an installation guide for user convenience.
- Important notes on preparing a bootable USB disk driver and resetting NVRAM.
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Pros:
- Unlocks the ability to use a wide range of high-performance, cost-effective M.2 NVMe SSDs.
- Allows access to cutting-edge speeds from drives like Sabrent’s Rocket series.
- Cost-effective solution compared to proprietary Apple-specific SSDs.
- Detailed instructions for common post-installation issues (hibernation, unbootable).
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Cons:
- Requires a separate M.2 NVMe SSD purchase.
- Installation involves opening your MacBook Pro.
- Doesn’t support certain SSD models (e.g., PM981, 950 Pro, WD Blue NvME SN570/SN770).
- Cannot recover from internet for initial OS installation (bootable USB required).
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User Impressions: Many users praise this adapter for its compatibility and the ability to revitalize their older Macs with modern NVMe speeds. The provided guide and troubleshooting tips are often highlighted as helpful, making the conversion process smoother for those comfortable with DIY upgrades. It’s seen as an essential component for achieving the Sabrent best SSD upgrade for MacBook Pro on older machines.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Jorkar 1TB SSD 12+16 pin for MacBook Air/pro Upgrade…
For those seeking a more direct, plug-and-play solution without needing a separate adapter, the Jorkar 1TB SSD is a solid choice. This drive is designed specifically for compatible MacBook Air and MacBook Pro Retina models, making the upgrade process straightforward. It comes pre-installed with macOS High Sierra, which is a huge convenience, allowing you to get up and running faster with improved speed and capacity.
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Key Features:
- Direct replacement SSD for specific MacBook Air (mid 2013-2017) and MacBook Pro Retina (2013-2015) models.
- Pre-installed with macOS High Sierra 10.13 for easier setup.
- Increases capacity and processing speed with read speeds up to 2150 MB/s and write speeds up to 1650 MB/s (for the 1TB model).
- Offers faster boot times, application loading, and system responsiveness.
- Features encryption for data protection.
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Pros:
- Simplifies the upgrade process with a direct fit and pre-installed OS.
- Significant speed and capacity increase over original drives.
- Good value for a direct replacement solution.
- Faster performance leads to a noticeably snappier Mac experience.
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Cons:
- Compatibility is very specific (model and EMC must match).
- Requires updating original SSD to High Sierra before removal for recognition.
- May require language change during OS updates.
- Not as fast as top-tier NVMe SSDs used with adapters, like a Sabrent Rocket.
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the ease of installation and the immediate performance boost. The pre-installed OS is a frequent highlight, saving time and effort. Users note a significant improvement in overall system responsiveness and find it a cost-effective way to extend their Mac’s life.
- See it on Amazon here
3. OWC 1TB Aura N2 NVMe SSD Upgrade Kit w/Envoy Pro…
OWC is a well-respected name in Mac upgrades, and their Aura N2 NVMe SSD Upgrade Kit offers a comprehensive solution. Not only do you get a high-performance internal NVMe SSD specifically designed for macOS, but the kit also includes an Envoy Pro enclosure. This means your old, original SSD won’t go to waste; you can turn it into a super-fast external drive for backups or extra storage. It’s a full-circle upgrade that ensures you maximize value.
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Key Features:
- Includes a 1TB Aura N2 NVMe SSD with read speeds up to 2382MB/s and write speeds up to 1732MB/s.
- Designed for macOS 10.12 and beyond, ensuring optimal compatibility.
- Comprehensive kit includes SSD, installation tools, Envoy Pro enclosure, USB 3.1 Gen 1 cable, and carrying case.
- Compatible with MacBook Air (Mid-2013 – 2017) and MacBook Pro Retina (Late 2013 – Mid 2015).
- Comes with a 3-Year OWC Limited Warranty.
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Pros:
- Complete kit provides everything you need for the upgrade.
- Envoy Pro enclosure repurposes your old SSD, adding value.
- SSD specifically tuned for macOS compatibility and performance.
- Strong brand reputation and customer support from OWC.
- Offers significant speed improvements over original drives.
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Cons:
- Generally a higher price point compared to buying an adapter and a generic NVMe SSD separately.
- Not as blazing fast as some PCIe Gen4 drives, but still excellent for compatible Macs.
- Installation still requires opening your MacBook Pro.
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User Impressions: Users highly recommend the OWC kit for its quality, completeness, and the added benefit of the Envoy Pro enclosure. The smooth installation process and the noticeable boost in performance are frequently cited. Many feel the premium price is justified by the peace of mind and integrated solution for their MacBook Pro SSD needs.
- See it on Amazon here
4. ACASIS USB C 3.2 SSD Enclosure for Apple SSD 12+16…
While not an internal upgrade itself, the ACASIS USB C 3.2 SSD Enclosure is an incredibly versatile tool, especially if you’re upgrading your MacBook Pro with a new internal SSD and want to repurpose your original Apple SSD. It’s also fantastic for creating an ultra-fast external drive using a spare M.2 NVMe SSD, including a Sabrent Rocket! This enclosure boasts incredible 10Gbps transmission speeds, making it ideal for professional use where quick data transfers are essential, or simply for expanding your Mac’s storage externally.
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Key Features:
- High compatibility with Apple original Mac SSDs (12+16 Pins) and M.2 2280 NVMe SSDs (with included adapter).
- Super-fast 10Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen2) transmission speed, with potential for 20Gbps (Gen2x2) on supporting systems.
- Durable and portable aluminum alloy case for efficient heat dissipation.
- Supports 2013-2017 MacBook Air, 2013-2015 MacBook Pro Retina, 2013-2014 iMac, 2013 Mac Pro.
- Plug-and-play design with easy installation and support for hot plug.
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Pros:
- Highly versatile for repurposing old Apple SSDs or using new M.2 NVMe drives externally.
- Exceptional data transfer speeds for large files and backups.
- Robust aluminum construction ensures durability and effective cooling.
- Adds valuable external storage or allows for testing an internal upgrade without full installation.
- Great option for users who want to avoid internal upgrades but still gain speed.
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Cons:
- Does NOT support Toshiba 12+16 PIN SSDs or SATA SSDs.
- Requires proper assembly with screws for optimal heat dissipation and connection stability.
- On Windows OS, requires disk management for initial recognition.
- Not an internal upgrade solution itself.
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User Impressions: Users love this enclosure for its speed and flexibility. It’s a go-to for breathing new life into old Apple SSDs or for making a super-fast portable drive with a new NVMe. The robust build and quick transfer rates are frequently highlighted, making it a valuable accessory for any Mac user.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Sintech M.2 NVMe SSD Adapter Card for Upgrade 2016 2017…
Just like its predecessor for older models, this Sintech adapter card is a critical piece of the puzzle for a Sabrent best SSD upgrade for MacBook Pro if you own a 2016 or 2017 non-Touch Bar A1708 model. These specific MacBooks also have proprietary SSD connectors, but this adapter allows you to bypass that limitation. It lets you install standard M.2 NVMe SSDs (like the speedy Sabrent Rocket series) and enjoy vastly superior performance and capacity compared to the original drives.
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Key Features:
- Specifically designed for MacBookPro13,1 (Late 2016) and MacBookPro14,1 (Mid 2017) Non-Touch Bar A1708 models.
- Connects to a PCIe 3.0 x4 slot with a 22+34 pin connector.
- Only fits 2230/2242 type key M NVMe M.2 SSDs; does not support SATA bus key B/B+M SSDs.
- Important notes on preparing a bootable USB disk driver for initial installation.
- Troubleshooting tip for reboot issues (unplug power cord from USB 3.1 port).
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Pros:
- Enables the use of high-performance, widely available M.2 NVMe SSDs (including Sabrent) in specific newer Mac models.
- Significantly improves read/write speeds and overall system responsiveness.
- Cost-effective way to upgrade storage and performance compared to OEM options.
- Crucial for maximizing the longevity and utility of these MacBook Pro models.
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Cons:
- Compatibility is very narrow (A1708 Non-Touch Bar only).
- Requires a separate M.2 NVMe SSD purchase.
- Installation involves opening your MacBook Pro and careful handling.
- Cannot recover from internet for initial OS installation (bootable USB required).
- Potential for reboot issues if power cord from USB 3.1 port isn’t unplugged.
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User Impressions: Users of compatible A1708 MacBook Pros find this adapter indispensable. It’s praised for working as advertised and allowing them to install powerful NVMe drives, like a Sabrent Rocket, greatly enhancing their Mac’s performance and storage. The caveat about the bootable USB is a common theme but manageable for DIYers.
- See it on Amazon here
6. SABRENT Rocket XTRM Plus 2TB Thunderbolt 3 Portable SSD -…
Now we’re talking pure Sabrent power! For those who want the absolute fastest external storage solution for their MacBook Pro (especially newer models with Thunderbolt 3/4 ports), the Sabrent Rocket XTRM Plus is a game-changer. This isn’t an internal upgrade, but a phenomenal external drive that delivers incredible speeds up to 2,700 MB/s. It’s perfect for creative professionals, gamers, or anyone needing blazingly fast portable storage, making it arguably the Sabrent best SSD upgrade for MacBook Pro if your need is external, not internal.
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Key Features:
- Upgraded Thunderbolt 3 portable SSD with speeds up to 2,700 MB/s (40Gbps Thunderbolt 3).
- Fallback to 900 MB/s with 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 for broader compatibility.
- Durable aluminum outer shell for ruggedness and improved heat dissipation, plus a removable silicone sleeve for extra protection.
- Complete package includes a premium Thunderbolt 3 cable and a USB-A to USB-C cable.
- Plug-and-play and bus-powered, compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
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Pros:
- Extremely fast external storage, ideal for high-bandwidth tasks like video editing or large file transfers.
- Robust build quality with aluminum and silicone protection.
- Universal compatibility with various operating systems.
- Convenient plug-and-play, bus-powered operation.
- Excellent sustained performance for professional workloads.
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Cons:
- Not an internal SSD upgrade; doesn’t replace your MacBook Pro’s internal drive.
- Full speed requires a Thunderbolt 3/4 port on your Mac.
- Premium price point for high-end external storage.
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User Impressions: Users are consistently blown away by the speed and reliability of the Rocket XTRM Plus. It’s a favorite among video editors and photographers who need to work with massive files on the go. The sturdy design and the inclusion of both Thunderbolt and USB cables are frequently praised, solidifying its place as a top-tier external Sabrent best SSD upgrade for MacBook Pro.
- See it on Amazon here
7. SABRENT Rocket 4 1TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280…
While the Sabrent Rocket 4 is primarily designed for newer systems with PCIe Gen4 support (like recent desktop PCs or PS5s), it represents the pinnacle of Sabrent’s internal SSD technology. If you’re using an adapter like the Sintech ones reviewed above, and your MacBook Pro’s internal PCIe bus can handle it (though it might be limited to Gen3 speeds), installing a Sabrent Rocket 4 can still provide an incredible performance boost. It offers blazing speeds and robust performance, making it an aspirational choice for anyone seeking the absolute Sabrent best SSD upgrade for MacBook Pro where compatibility allows.
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Key Features:
- PCIe 4.0 NVMe performance with up to 7450MB/s read and 6100MB/s write speeds.
- High IOPS (up to 850K/800K random IOPS) for demanding workloads.
- Single-sided M.2 2280 form factor for broad compatibility across various systems.
- Efficient design for low heat and power draw, ensuring stable, long-term performance.
- Trusted Sabrent support with online registration for firmware updates and technical help.
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Pros:
- Among the fastest NVMe SSDs available, offering exceptional speed and responsiveness.
- Ideal for heavy-duty tasks like professional content creation, intense gaming, and large data handling.
- Reliable performance with efficient heat management.
- Wide compatibility with systems supporting M.2 2280 form factor (often via adapter for MacBooks).
- Backed by Sabrent’s reputation for high-quality storage solutions.
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Cons:
- MacBook Pros (even with adapters) will likely be limited to PCIe Gen3 speeds, not fully utilizing Gen4 capabilities.
- Requires a compatible adapter for internal installation in most MacBook Pro models.
- Premium price point for cutting-edge technology.
- Might be overkill if your MacBook Pro’s internal bus is significantly older.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the sheer speed and performance of the Sabrent Rocket 4. While Mac users will mostly see Gen3 speeds, the drive’s inherent quality and high IOPS still translate into an incredibly fast and responsive experience, making it a powerful choice for those looking for the absolute best performance from their internal Sabrent best SSD upgrade for MacBook Pro via an adapter.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About MacBook Pro SSD Upgrades Answered
Q1: Is upgrading my MacBook Pro’s SSD really worth it?
Absolutely! For many older MacBook Pro models, an SSD upgrade is one of the most impactful improvements you can make. You’ll experience dramatically faster boot times, quicker application launches, smoother multitasking, and overall improved system responsiveness. It can make your Mac feel like a brand new machine.
Q2: How do I know if my MacBook Pro is compatible with an SSD upgrade?
Compatibility is key! You need to identify your specific MacBook Pro model and year. Apple uses proprietary SSD connectors in many models, especially from 2013-2017. Tools like “About This Mac” (Apple menu > About This Mac) can help you find your model identifier. Once you have it, cross-reference it with the compatibility lists provided by adapter manufacturers (like Sintech) or direct replacement SSDs (like Jorkar or OWC).
Q3: Can I install a standard M.2 NVMe SSD (like a Sabrent Rocket) directly into my MacBook Pro?
For most MacBook Pro models from 2013-2017, no, not directly. These Macs use proprietary SSD connectors. You’ll need an adapter card, such as the Sintech models reviewed above, to convert the Mac’s connector to a standard M.2 slot, allowing you to use an M.2 NVMe SSD. Newer MacBook Pros (M1/M2/M3) generally have soldered SSDs and are not upgradeable.
Q4: Do I need to clean install macOS after upgrading my SSD?
Yes, usually. The new SSD will be blank. You’ll need to create a bootable macOS installer on a USB drive and then install macOS onto your new SSD. Some direct replacement SSDs (like Jorkar) come with macOS pre-installed, simplifying this step. Make sure to back up your data before starting the upgrade!
Q5: What’s the difference between NVMe and SATA SSDs for MacBooks?
NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) SSDs use the PCIe interface, which offers significantly faster speeds than SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) SSDs, which are limited to around 550 MB/s. Many newer MacBook Pros (and older ones with adapters) can take advantage of NVMe speeds, offering several times the performance of SATA. For the Sabrent best SSD upgrade for MacBook Pro, NVMe is definitely the way to go for speed.
Q6: Will upgrading my SSD void my MacBook Pro’s warranty?
If your MacBook Pro is still under Apple’s warranty, performing an unauthorized internal upgrade can void it. However, for older models already out of warranty, this isn’t a concern. Always check your warranty status if you’re unsure.
Q7: Can I use my old MacBook Pro SSD as an external drive after upgrading?
Absolutely! This is a popular and smart move. Enclosures like the ACASIS USB C 3.2 SSD Enclosure (reviewed above) are perfect for housing your original Apple SSD, turning it into a fast, portable external drive for backups or extra storage. This repurposes your old hardware and adds value.
Final Thoughts: Making the Best Choice for Your MacBook Pro
Upgrading your MacBook Pro’s SSD is one of the smartest investments you can make to prolong its life and boost its performance. Whether you opt for an internal upgrade using an adapter to harness the power of a Sabrent best SSD upgrade for MacBook Pro like the Rocket 4, or choose a comprehensive kit from OWC, the difference will be palpable. Even a powerful external drive like the Sabrent Rocket XTRM Plus can revolutionize your workflow.
Always double-check your MacBook Pro’s specific model and year for compatibility before making a purchase. With the right choice from these top solutions, you’ll be enjoying a faster, more responsive Mac in no time!