Is your MacBook Pro feeling a bit sluggish, or are you constantly running out of storage space? You’re not alone! Many MacBook Pro users eventually hit a wall with their internal storage, especially if they’re working with large files like high-resolution videos, massive photo libraries, or demanding creative software. Upgrading your solid-state drive (SSD) can breathe new life into your machine, offering a significant boost in speed and capacity.
When it comes to reliable and high-performance storage, Sabrent is a name that often comes up. But finding the Sabrent best 512 SSD for MacBook Pro isn’t always straightforward, especially given the various MacBook Pro models and their specific compatibility requirements. Beyond Sabrent, there are other fantastic options designed specifically for your Mac.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into 7 top SSDs, including Sabrent options and other compatible brands, that can help you supercharge your MacBook Pro. We’ll break down their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect 512GB (or close alternative) NVMe SSD for your Mac. Let’s get your MacBook Pro running like new!
1. SABRENT 512GB Rocket NVMe PCIe M.2 2242 DRAM-Less Low Power SSD
This Sabrent Rocket NVMe SSD offers a solid performance upgrade in a compact M.2 2242 form factor. While not directly compatible with all MacBook Pro models without an adapter, its efficiency and Sabrent’s reputation make it a compelling choice for users looking for a versatile and power-friendly internal storage solution. It’s designed for low power consumption, making it a great fit for laptops where battery life is a concern, and it comes with Sabrent’s acclaimed Acronis True Image software for easy data migration.
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Key Features:
- M.2 PCIe Gen3 x 4 Interface. PCIe 3.1 Compliant / NVMe 1.3 Compliant.
- DRAM-less Low Power Consumption. Power Management Support for APST / ASPM / L1.2.
- Supports SMART and TRIM commands. Supports ONFi 2.3, ONFi 3.0, ONFi 3.2 and ONFi 4.0 interface.
- Advanced Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management, and Over-Provision.
- All Sabrent SSDs come with FREE Sabrent Acronis True Image for Sabrent Software for easy Cloning.
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Pros:
- Excellent value for a 512GB NVMe SSD.
- Low power consumption, beneficial for laptop battery life.
- Includes free cloning software (Acronis True Image for Sabrent).
- Robust features for data integrity and longevity (Wear Leveling, Bad Block Management).
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Cons:
- M.2 2242 form factor may require an adapter for direct MacBook Pro installation.
- DRAM-less design can sometimes lead to slightly lower sustained write speeds compared to DRAM-equipped drives.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate its reliability and the included cloning software, often noting it’s a great choice for various compact systems. While Mac users might need an adapter, those who’ve made it work report smooth performance and a noticeable speed bump.
2. FLEANE FM17A 512GB PCIE 3.0×4 NVME 3D NAND TLC Flash for MacBook Pro Retina A1708
Specifically engineered for the MacBook Pro Retina A1708 (Late 2016-Mid 2017 Non-Touch Bar models), the FLEANE FM17A is a direct-fit solution that removes the hassle of adapters. It’s designed for a plug-and-play experience, coming pre-loaded with macOS Catalina, and even includes a bootable USB installer for Big Sur, along with all the necessary tools. This makes it a fantastic, no-fuss upgrade for compatible MacBook Pro owners looking for a dedicated 512GB NVMe SSD solution.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with MacBook Pro Retina A1708 (Late 2016-Mid 2017, Non-Touch Bar models only).
- Includes 512GB SSD (pre-loaded with Catalina), 16GB USB Bootable Installer (OS Big Sur), 2 screwdrivers, 1 USB to Type-C adapter.
- PCIe 3.0×4 3D TLC NAND Flash with read speeds up to 1950MB/s and write speeds up to 1500MB/s.
- Important note: macOS 10.13 High Sierra (or later OS) must be installed on the Mac before installing the new SSD.
- 3-year worry-free warranty.
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Pros:
- Direct fit for specific MacBook Pro A1708 models, no adapter needed.
- Comes with essential tools, pre-loaded OS, and bootable installer for a smooth upgrade.
- Good read/write speeds for a PCIe Gen3 drive.
- 3-year warranty provides peace of mind.
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Cons:
- Strictly compatible only with A1708 Non-Touch Bar models from 2016-2017.
- Requires a firmware update on the original SSD to High Sierra or later beforehand.
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User Impressions: A standout for its “all-in-one” package, users rave about how easy this SSD makes the upgrade process for their A1708 MacBook Pro. The included tools and pre-loaded OS are frequently highlighted as major conveniences, making it an excellent choice if you’re looking for the Sabrent best 512 SSD for MacBook Pro alternatives.
3. FLEANE MZ17C 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD for 2016 2017 MacBook Pro Retina A1708
Another tailored solution from FLEANE, the MZ17C closely mirrors the FM17A but with a slightly different macOS pre-load (Monterey 12). This 512GB SSD is also designed as a direct replacement for the MacBook Pro A1708 (Late 2016-Mid 2017, Non-Touch Bar), offering seamless integration without any adapters. It ensures your MacBook Pro gets a much-needed speed and storage boost with minimal fuss, making it one of the top internal drive contenders for specific Mac models.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with MacBook Pro Retina A1708 (Late 2016-Mid 2017, Non-Touch Bar models only). Not for A1706 & A1707.
- Includes 512GB SSD, 16GB USB Bootable Installer (macOS Monterey 12), 2 screwdrivers, 1 USB to Type-C adapter.
- PCIe 3.0×4 3D TLC NAND Flash with read speeds up to 1750MB/S and write speeds up to 1400MB/S.
- Important note: Must update the original SSD to macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later version before moving out.
- 3-year worry-free warranty.
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Pros:
- Perfect fit for specific A1708 models, ensuring a secure connection.
- Comprehensive kit with tools, pre-loaded macOS Monterey, and bootable installer.
- Solid performance boost over older drives.
- Comes with a 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
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Cons:
- Limited compatibility to only A1708 Non-Touch Bar MacBook Pros.
- Requires the prerequisite macOS High Sierra firmware update.
- Slightly lower stated read/write speeds compared to the FM17A, though still very good for practical use.
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User Impressions: Mac users looking for an easy, compatible upgrade for their A1708 model highly recommend this drive. They appreciate the full package, especially the pre-loaded OS and tools, which simplify what could otherwise be a daunting installation.
4. SABRENT Rocket 4 1TB NVMe SSD PCIe Gen4 M.2 2280
While our primary focus is the Sabrent best 512 SSD for MacBook Pro, the Sabrent Rocket 4 1TB is a powerhouse that deserves mention for those with compatible Macs (often newer models via adapter or external enclosures) or those needing serious speed. This isn’t a 512GB drive, but it demonstrates Sabrent’s top-tier performance. If your MacBook Pro can harness PCIe Gen4 speeds (typically newer models or external enclosures), this 1TB option offers blazing-fast performance, pushing the boundaries of what internal storage can do for demanding tasks like 4K video editing, complex graphic design, or high-end gaming.
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Key Features:
- Blazing Gen4 Speed: PCIe 4.0 NVMe performance with up to 7450MB/s read and 6100MB/s write speeds.
- High IOPS, Efficient Design: Up to 850K/800K random IOPS with low heat and power draw.
- Broad System Compatibility: Single-sided M.2 2280 form factor.
- Made for Pros and Gamers: Ideal for high-performance systems.
- Trusted Sabrent Support: Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux; online registration for firmware updates and technical help.
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Pros:
- Extremely high read/write speeds, significantly boosting system responsiveness.
- Excellent for professionals and gamers requiring top-tier performance.
- Efficient design helps maintain stability without throttling.
- Sabrent’s reliable support and broad compatibility (with appropriate adapters/enclosures).
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Cons:
- 1TB capacity might be more than some users need when specifically looking for a 512GB drive.
- PCIe Gen4 speeds are only fully realized on systems that support it; older MacBook Pros will cap at Gen3 speeds.
- M.2 2280 form factor likely requires an adapter for direct internal installation in most MacBook Pros.
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User Impressions: Users are consistently blown away by the speed of the Rocket 4. It’s a go-to for power users building high-end systems or those with compatible external enclosures for their Macs, praising its quick boots and incredibly fast file transfers.
5. GAMERKING 512GB NVMe SSD for MacBook Pro A1708 2016 2017
GAMERKING steps up with another dedicated 512GB NVMe SSD for the MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017 Non-Touch Bar models). This drive features a 1:1 original interface design, meaning no adapter is needed, making installation straightforward. With impressive read/write speeds up to 2500MB/s and 2000MB/s respectively, it’s a superb upgrade for photo/video editing, gaming, and other demanding applications. It also comes with an exceptional 5-year warranty and a pre-loaded OS, making it a strong contender for the Sabrent best 512 SSD for MacBook Pro alternative.
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Key Features:
- 1:1 Design, 100% adaptable to the original interface for MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017, Non-Touch Bar).
- NVMe PCIe Gen 3.0×4 technology with read/write speed up to 2500MB/s / 2000MB/s.
- Features 3D NAND TLC flash, supports NCQ, TRIM, SMART, ECC for enhanced data security.
- Intelligent temperature management and aluminum alloy heat dissipation design.
- Includes 1 x PCIe NVMe SSD (Pre-loaded with Mac OS 10.13 High Sierra), 2 x Screwdriver, 1 x Detailed SSD installation guide.
- 5-year warranty.
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Pros:
- Direct fit for specified A1708 models, ensuring easy installation.
- Excellent read/write speeds for a PCIe Gen3 drive.
- Long 5-year warranty, demonstrating confidence in product longevity.
- Comes with essential tools and pre-loaded OS for a hassle-free upgrade.
- Enhanced data security features and intelligent thermal management.
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Cons:
- Compatibility is strictly limited to MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017 Non-Touch Bar).
- Requires the original macOS to be updated to High Sierra or later beforehand.
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User Impressions: Many users praise this GAMERKING SSD for its plug-and-play nature and the significant performance boost it provides to their A1708. The inclusion of tools and a pre-loaded OS are frequently cited as key benefits, alongside the generous warranty.
6. SABRENT Rocket Nano 512GB USB 3.2 10Gb/s External Aluminum SSD
Sometimes, the best solution for a MacBook Pro isn’t an internal upgrade, but a powerful external drive. The Sabrent Rocket Nano 512GB is an ultra-portable, high-speed external SSD that perfectly complements any MacBook Pro, especially those with soldered storage or limited upgrade options. It’s perfect for quickly offloading large files, creating a portable boot drive, or securely backing up your data on the go. While not an internal replacement, it offers the performance and reliability you’d expect from the Sabrent best 512 SSD for MacBook Pro family, but in a compact, external form factor.
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Key Features:
- Designed to work with both Windows and Mac OS.
- Plug & Play: OS independent, fully bus powered, no drivers required.
- Ultra-fast 10Gbps throughput (USB 3.2 Gen 2), up to 1000MB/s read/write.
- Ultra-slim aluminum alloy sandblasted shell – sleek, durable, and convenient.
- Supports TRIM, UASP, and upgradable firmware.
- Perfect for data transfer, high-speed storage, data backup, and more.
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Pros:
- Extremely portable and durable design.
- Blazing fast external speeds (up to 1000MB/s) via USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- Universal compatibility with Mac and Windows.
- Bus-powered, so no external power supply needed.
- Versatile for various uses: backup, portable OS, media storage.
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Cons:
- It’s an external drive, not an internal upgrade for your MacBook Pro’s primary storage.
- Speed is dependent on the MacBook Pro’s USB port capabilities.
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User Impressions: Reviewers consistently laud the Rocket Nano for its incredible speed, compact size, and robust build quality. It’s a favorite among professionals who need to move large files quickly and reliably between different systems or simply want a super-fast external workspace for their Mac.
7. GAMERKING (Original Interface 256GB SSD for MacBook Pro A1708 2016 2017)
Although the primary focus of our guide is on 512GB options, the GAMERKING 256GB SSD for MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017 Non-Touch Bar) is worth considering if you’re on a tighter budget or simply don’t need the full 512GB. Like its 512GB counterpart, this drive boasts an original connector interface for a perfect fit, eliminating the need for adapters. It provides a substantial speed boost over the original drive with read/write speeds up to 2500MB/s / 2000MB/s, making it a quick and affordable upgrade for compatible models, ensuring your Mac feels snappier and more responsive.
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Key Features:
- Original Connector for 100% adaptability to MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017, Non-Touch Bar models).
- NVMe PCIe Gen 3.0×4 technology with read/write speed up to 2500MB/s / 2000MB/s.
- Features 3D NAND TLC flash, supports NCQ, TRIM, SMART, ECC.
- Intelligent temperature management and aluminum alloy heat dissipation design.
- Package content: 1 x NVMe SSD (Pre-loaded with Mac OS 10.13 High Sierra), 2 x Screwdriver, 1 x Detailed SSD installation guide.
- Various capacities available, including this 256GB model.
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Pros:
- Cost-effective upgrade for A1708 MacBook Pros compared to larger capacities.
- Direct fit design means a straightforward, adapter-free installation.
- Excellent read/write speeds for a PCIe Gen3 drive.
- Comprehensive package includes tools, pre-loaded OS, and an installation guide.
- Robust features for data integrity and performance.
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Cons:
- 256GB might be insufficient for users with very large media libraries or demanding applications.
- Limited compatibility to specific MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017 Non-Touch Bar) models.
- Requires a prior macOS update to High Sierra or later for recognition.
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User Impressions: Users looking for an economical yet effective upgrade for their A1708 often choose this GAMERKING drive. They appreciate the ease of installation and the noticeable speed improvement, making their older MacBook Pros feel much more responsive for everyday tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why should I upgrade my MacBook Pro’s SSD?
A: Upgrading your MacBook Pro’s SSD, especially to a high-performance NVMe drive, offers numerous benefits. You’ll experience significantly faster boot times, quicker application launches, snappier file transfers, and an overall more responsive system. It’s one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to improve your Mac’s performance and extend its lifespan.
Q2: Is installing a new SSD in my MacBook Pro difficult?
A: It depends on your MacBook Pro model. Newer MacBook Pros (2016 onwards) often have soldered SSDs, making internal upgrades extremely difficult or impossible without specialized tools and expertise. However, certain models, like the A1708 (2016-2017 Non-Touch Bar), use removable proprietary SSDs, making them upgradeable with the right compatible drive and tools. Always check your specific model’s compatibility and watch a few YouTube tutorials before attempting.
Q3: What is NVMe and why is it important for an SSD?
A: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is a communication interface/protocol specifically designed for SSDs that works over a PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) bus. Compared to older SATA interfaces, NVMe allows SSDs to achieve much higher read and write speeds by significantly reducing latency and utilizing multiple data lanes, leading to much faster performance.
Q4: Do I need to update my macOS before installing a new SSD?
A: Yes, for many upgradeable MacBook Pro models (especially 2016-2017), it’s crucial to update your existing macOS to High Sierra (10.13) or later before removing the old SSD. This update includes an EFI firmware update that enables your Mac to recognize and work with newer NVMe SSDs. Without this, your new SSD might not be detected.
Q5: What’s the difference between an internal and external SSD for my MacBook Pro?
A: An internal SSD replaces your MacBook Pro’s primary storage drive. This is ideal for boosting overall system speed and expanding your main storage capacity. An external SSD, like the Sabrent Rocket Nano, connects via a USB-C/Thunderbolt port. It’s perfect for portable storage, fast backups, running apps or even an OS externally, or for Macs where internal upgrades aren’t possible.
Q6: Can I use any M.2 NVMe SSD in my MacBook Pro?
A: No. MacBook Pros typically use proprietary SSD connectors or specific M.2 form factors (like 2242 or 2280) which may require a compatible adapter. Furthermore, some SSDs are physically larger or draw more power than supported. It’s vital to research your exact MacBook Pro model number (e.g., A1708, A1502) and purchase an SSD explicitly stated to be compatible or designed for it.
Q7: What does “DRAM-less” mean for an SSD?
A: DRAM-less SSDs omit the small amount of DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) typically used as a cache to map data for faster access. While this makes them more cost-effective and power-efficient, it can sometimes result in slightly lower sustained write speeds, especially under heavy load, compared to SSDs with a DRAM cache. For most everyday users, the difference is negligible.
Q8: What if my MacBook Pro doesn’t have an upgradeable internal SSD?
A: If your MacBook Pro has a soldered SSD (common in newer models), you won’t be able to upgrade the internal storage. However, you can still significantly expand your storage and speed by using a high-performance external NVMe SSD, often connected via a Thunderbolt or USB-C port, which can offer speeds comparable to internal drives.
Conclusion
Upgrading your MacBook Pro’s storage doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Whether you’re aiming for the Sabrent best 512 SSD for MacBook Pro or exploring other compatible brands like FLEANE and GAMERKING, there are excellent options available to inject new life into your machine.
For those with compatible MacBook Pro A1708 models, specialized drives like the FLEANE FM17A, FLEANE MZ17C, and GAMERKING 512GB NVMe SSD offer direct-fit solutions, often bundled with everything you need for a smooth installation. These drives provide a significant performance boost and peace of mind with their warranties and dedicated support.
If you’re considering a more versatile option (possibly with an adapter) or an external powerhouse, Sabrent’s offerings like the Rocket NVMe PCIe M.2 2242 or the Rocket Nano external SSD provide top-tier performance and reliability. Remember to always double-check your specific MacBook Pro model’s compatibility and any necessary firmware updates before making your purchase.
With the right SSD, your MacBook Pro can once again become the fast, responsive workhorse you rely on, ready to tackle any task you throw its way!