Upgrading your Mac’s SSD can feel like giving your computer a second life—especially if you’re running an older model that’s starting to slow down or run out of storage. Whether you’re a creative professional juggling large video files, a student managing coursework and media, or just someone who wants their MacBook to feel snappier, increasing your solid-state drive capacity or replacing a failing drive is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. But here’s the catch: not all Macs are created equal when it comes to SSD upgrades, and not all retailers are equipped to help you do it right. That’s where this guide comes in.
In this comprehensive buying guide for 2026, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about upgrading your Mac’s SSD—including whether Best Buy is a viable option, what to look for in a replacement drive, how to avoid common pitfalls, and how to get the best value for your money. You’ll learn about compatibility issues, performance benchmarks, warranty considerations, and even step-by-step tips for DIY installation or professional service. Whether you’re eyeing a sleek new MacBook Air or clinging to a trusty MacBook Pro from 2015, this guide will empower you to make an informed decision that fits your budget, skill level, and long-term needs.
The market for Mac SSD upgrades has evolved significantly over the past few years. Apple’s shift toward soldered storage in newer models means fewer options for user-replaceable drives, but third-party manufacturers like OWC (Other World Computing), Samsung, Crucial, and Transcend have stepped up with high-quality, Mac-compatible SSDs and tools. Meanwhile, retail giants like Best Buy now offer both hardware and technical services—but their support varies widely depending on your Mac model and location. By the end of this guide, you’ll understand not only if you can upgrade your Mac SSD at Best Buy, but also whether you should, and what alternatives might serve you better.
What to Look for When Buying Buying Guide
1. Compatibility with Your Mac Model
The single most critical factor in any Mac SSD upgrade is compatibility. Apple uses proprietary SSD form factors and connectors across different generations, so a drive that works in a 2013 MacBook Air won’t fit in a 2017 MacBook Pro. Before you even think about purchasing a new SSD—or walking into Best Buy—you must identify your exact Mac model and year. You can find this by clicking the Apple logo in the menu bar and selecting “About This Mac.” Look for details like “MacBook Pro (13-inch, Early 2015)” or “MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2020).”
Once you know your model, cross-reference it with manufacturer compatibility lists. For example, OWC provides a detailed compatibility chart on their website that specifies which drives work with which Macs. Some older Macs use standard M.2 NVMe drives, while others require Apple-specific modules like the “blade” style used in 2013–2015 MacBook Airs and Pros. Newer Macs (2016 and later) often have SSDs soldered directly to the logic board, making user upgrades impossible without specialized microsoldering skills—and even then, it’s risky.
2. Performance Specifications
Not all SSDs are created equal—even if they’re compatible. Performance hinges on several specs: interface type (SATA vs. NVMe), read/write speeds, and controller quality. For Macs that support NVMe (like most post-2013 models), aim for drives with sequential read speeds of at least 2,000 MB/s and write speeds above 1,500 MB/s. Real-world performance matters more than peak numbers, so look for reviews that test boot times, app launches, and file transfers.
Also consider endurance, measured in terabytes written (TBW). A 1TB drive with a 600 TBW rating will last longer under heavy use than one rated for 300 TBW. While most users won’t hit these limits for years, it’s a good indicator of build quality. Avoid no-name brands that advertise “up to 3,500 MB/s” but lack independent benchmarking—they often use cheaper NAND flash that degrades quickly.
3. Budget & Price Range
SSD pricing has dropped significantly since 2020, but Mac-compatible drives still carry a premium due to niche form factors and low production volumes. Expect to pay between $80–$150 for a 500GB drive, $120–$250 for 1TB, and $200–$400+ for 2TB or higher. Prices vary based on brand, speed, and included software (like cloning utilities).
Best Buy typically stocks mainstream brands like Samsung, Crucial, and SanDisk, but their selection of Mac-specific SSDs is limited compared to specialty retailers. You might find a compatible drive in-store, but online inventory is more reliable. Always compare prices across Amazon, B&H Photo, OWC, and Best Buy—sometimes the difference is just $10, but other times it’s $50 or more.
4. Build Quality & Durability
SSDs have no moving parts, making them inherently more durable than HDDs, but build quality still varies. Look for drives with robust controllers (like Phison or Silicon Motion), high-quality NAND flash (preferably TLC or MLC, not QLC), and proper thermal management. Some Mac-compatible SSDs include heat spreaders or thermal pads to prevent throttling during sustained workloads—important if you edit video or run virtual machines.
Avoid ultra-cheap drives that skimp on components. A $60 1TB SSD might seem like a steal, but if it uses inferior NAND or lacks error correction, you could lose data or experience crashes. Stick with reputable brands that publish detailed spec sheets and offer firmware updates.
5. Features & Functionality
Beyond raw speed and capacity, consider value-added features. Many third-party SSDs come with cloning software (like Acronis True Image or OWC’s Drive Dock utility) that lets you copy your existing drive without reinstalling macOS. This saves hours of setup time and preserves your apps, settings, and files.
Some drives also support hardware encryption (AES-256), which integrates with macOS FileVault for seamless security. Others include mounting kits, screwdrivers, or adapters for specific Mac models. These extras can justify a slightly higher price—especially if you’re doing the install yourself.
6. Brand Reputation
When it comes to Mac upgrades, brand trust matters. OWC (Other World Computing) has been specializing in Mac storage since the 1980s and offers lifetime technical support, detailed installation videos, and a 3-year warranty on most drives. Samsung and Crucial are reliable for standard M.2 drives, but verify Mac compatibility before buying.
Best Buy sells these brands, but their staff may not be trained on Mac-specific nuances. If you buy from them, double-check the product description and return policy. Avoid generic “Mac SSD” listings from unknown sellers—even if they claim compatibility, they often ship incompatible or counterfeit drives.
7. Warranty & Support
A good warranty reflects confidence in product longevity. Most quality SSDs come with 3–5 years of coverage. OWC offers a 3-year limited warranty with free data recovery assistance in case of failure. Samsung and Crucial provide 5-year warranties on consumer drives. Check whether the warranty is honored globally or only in the U.S., and whether you need to register the product.
Support is equally important. If you run into issues during installation, can you call someone who understands Mac hardware? Best Buy’s Geek Squad may help with basic installs, but they often charge $100–$200 and don’t guarantee success—especially on complex models. Specialty retailers usually offer free email or phone support.
8. User Reviews & Ratings
Never rely solely on manufacturer claims. Read verified purchase reviews on Amazon, B&H, or MacRumors forums. Look for patterns: Do multiple users report failed installs on a specific Mac model? Are there complaints about slow speeds or overheating? Pay attention to reviews from people with the same Mac as yours.
Be wary of overly positive reviews that sound scripted or lack detail. Genuine reviews often mention quirks—like needing a specific screwdriver or encountering firmware issues. These insights can save you frustration down the line.
Different Types of Buying Guide
Common Buying Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Mistake: Assuming All Macs Are User-Upgradable
Why it’s bad: Since 2016, Apple has increasingly soldered SSDs directly onto the logic board to save space and improve thermal efficiency. Attempting to “upgrade” these drives without microsoldering equipment will result in permanent damage.
What to do instead: Always verify your Mac’s upgradeability before purchasing. Use tools like MacTracker or Apple’s official tech specs. If your Mac isn’t upgradable, invest in a high-speed external SSD instead.
❌ Mistake: Buying Based Solely on Price
Why it’s bad: The cheapest SSD may use low-grade NAND flash or lack proper error correction, leading to data corruption or early failure. You’re not just buying storage—you’re trusting it with your photos, projects, and system files.
What to do instead: Prioritize reliability and compatibility over cost. Spend a little more for a reputable brand with strong reviews and a solid warranty.
❌ Mistake: Ignoring Firmware Compatibility
Why it’s bad: Some third-party SSDs require firmware updates to work properly with macOS. If you skip this step, your Mac might not recognize the drive or could experience instability.
What to do instead: Check the manufacturer’s website for macOS-specific firmware. OWC and Transcend often provide downloadable updaters. Update before installing if possible.
❌ Mistake: Relying on Best Buy for Complex Installs
Why it’s bad: While Best Buy sells SSDs and offers Geek Squad services, their technicians are generalists. They may not have experience with delicate Mac internals or proprietary connectors, increasing the risk of damage.
What to do instead: For older Macs, consider DIY with guided videos (iFixit is excellent). For newer or complex models, seek out Apple-certified repair shops or specialists like Rossmann Repair Group.
❌ Mistake: Not Backing Up Before Upgrading
Why it’s bad: Even with cloning software, things can go wrong—power outages, corrupted drives, user error. Without a backup, you could lose everything.
What to do instead: Always create a full Time Machine backup before starting. Store it on an external drive or cloud service. Test the backup by restoring a small file.
❌ Mistake: Overlooking Thermal Throttling
Why it’s bad: High-performance SSDs generate heat. In tightly packed Mac chassis, this can cause throttling—slowing down to prevent overheating—which negates the speed benefit.
What to do instead: Choose drives with built-in thermal management or add a thin thermal pad. Monitor temps using apps like DriveDx or TGPro after installation.
❌ Mistake: Buying Without Checking Return Policies
Why it’s bad: If the SSD is incompatible or defective, you don’t want to be stuck with it. Some retailers charge restocking fees or have short return windows.
What to do instead: Confirm the return policy before buying. Best Buy offers 15-day returns for most electronics, but opened software may be non-refundable. Specialty retailers often have more flexible policies.
Budget Guidelines: How Much Should You Spend?
Your budget should align with your Mac’s age, your usage needs, and how long you plan to keep the device. Here’s a realistic breakdown for 2026:
- Entry-Level ($80–$150): Suitable for basic tasks like web browsing, document editing, and light photo storage. Look for 500GB SATA or NVMe drives from Crucial or Samsung. Ideal for older Macs (pre-2015) where performance gains are modest but noticeable.
- Mid-Range ($150–$250): The sweet spot for most users. A 1TB NVMe drive from OWC or Transcend offers excellent speed, reliability, and future-proofing. Great for students, freelancers, and home users who multitask or store media libraries.
- Premium ($250–$400): For power users and professionals. 2TB drives with high endurance ratings (600+ TBW) and advanced controllers. Perfect for video editors, developers, or anyone running VMs. Brands like OWC and Samsung Pro series shine here.
- Luxury ($400+): Overkill for most, but justified if you need maximum capacity (4TB+) or enterprise-grade reliability. Often includes premium support, extended warranties, and bundled software. Only consider if your workflow demands it.
Expert Tips for Getting the Best Deal
- Time your purchase around sales events: Black Friday, Prime Day, and Back-to-School seasons often feature discounts on SSDs. Best Buy typically runs “Tech Refresh” sales in January and July—perfect for storage upgrades.
- Compare online vs. in-store pricing: Best Buy’s website often has exclusive online deals or price-matching. Use their app to scan in-store items and check for digital coupons.
- Bundle with other accessories: Some retailers offer discounts when you buy an SSD with a USB-C hub, case, or external enclosure. OWC frequently runs bundle deals that save 10–15%.
- Check refurbished or open-box options: Best Buy’s open-box SSDs can be 20–30% cheaper and come with the same warranty. Just ensure they’re “like new” condition.
- Use student or educator discounts: If you’re eligible, Apple Education Pricing sometimes includes storage upgrades. Third-party retailers like B&H also offer academic discounts.
- Test before finalizing: After installation, run benchmarks (Blackmagic Disk Speed Test is free) and check SMART status with DriveDx. This confirms the drive is healthy and performing as expected.
- Keep your old drive: Even if it’s failing, the old SSD can serve as a backup or be wiped and sold. Some buyers specifically look for used Mac SSDs for DIY projects.
- Consider future-proofing: If you’re upgrading, go one size up from your current needs. Storage fills up faster than expected—especially with 4K video and AI tools becoming mainstream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I upgrade my Mac SSD at Best Buy?
A: Best Buy sells compatible SSDs for certain older Mac models (mainly 2013–2015 MacBook Airs and Pros), but their in-store selection is limited. You can purchase online with better inventory. However, Best Buy’s Geek Squad does not guarantee successful Mac SSD upgrades—especially on complex or soldered models. For reliable service, consider specialty Mac repair shops or DIY with guidance.
Q: Will upgrading my SSD void my Apple warranty?
A: If your Mac is still under Apple’s limited warranty or AppleCare+, opening the case to replace the SSD may void coverage—even if the repair is unrelated to the issue. However, for out-of-warranty Macs (most likely if you’re considering an upgrade), this isn’t a concern. Always check your warranty status first.
Q: Do I need special tools to replace my Mac SSD?
A: Yes. Most Macs require P5 Pentalobe and T5 Torx screwdrivers. iFixit sells affordable toolkits ($20–$30) with everything you need. Some SSD kits (like OWC’s) include these tools. Never force screws—Mac screws are tiny and easily stripped.
Q: Can I clone my existing drive to the new SSD?
A: Absolutely. Use Carbon Copy Cloner (paid) or SuperDuper! (free version available) to create a bootable clone. This preserves your OS, apps, and settings. Ensure the new SSD is equal or larger in capacity than the used space on your current drive.
Q: What if my Mac doesn’t recognize the new SSD?
A: First, reseat the drive and check connections. If that fails, boot into Recovery Mode (Cmd+R) and use Disk Utility to erase and format the drive as APFS (or Mac OS Extended for older macOS versions). Then reinstall macOS.
Q: Are external SSDs as fast as internal ones?
A: With Thunderbolt 3 or USB4, external SSDs can match or exceed internal SATA speeds—and come close to NVMe performance. For soldered Macs, a high-quality external drive (like the Samsung X5 or OWC Envoy Pro FX) is often the best upgrade path.
Q: How long do Mac SSDs typically last?
A: Modern SSDs are rated for hundreds of terabytes written. For average users, a 1TB drive should last 5–10 years. Monitor health with DriveDx or Disk Utility’s S.M.A.R.T. status. Replace if you see warnings or performance drops.
Q: Can I upgrade an iMac’s SSD?
A: Only certain iMac models (2012–2015) have user-replaceable SSDs. 2017 and later iMacs use soldered storage or proprietary Fusion Drive setups that require professional disassembly. Check iFixit for your specific model before attempting.
Q: Is it worth upgrading a 2015 MacBook Pro in 2026?
A: Yes—if it’s still functioning well. A new SSD can breathe life into these machines, especially since they support NVMe speeds and are fully user-upgradeable. Just ensure macOS Ventura or Sonoma is still supported for security updates.
Q: Does Best Buy offer data migration services?
A: Geek Squad offers data transfer services, but they charge $99–$199 and may not support cloning to third-party SSDs. For complex migrations, DIY or specialist shops are more reliable and cost-effective.
Our Final Recommendations
- Best for Budget-Conscious Buyers: Crucial P3 1TB NVMe SSD – Reliable, fast, and widely compatible with older Macs that support M.2. Priced around $120, it’s a great entry point.
- Best Overall Value: OWC Aura Pro X2 1TB – Designed specifically for Macs, includes cloning software, tools, and lifetime support. Ideal for 2013–2015 MacBook Air/Pro users.
- Best Premium Option: Samsung 990 Pro 2TB (with adapter) – Top-tier performance and endurance. Best for Mac mini or MacBook Pro users needing maximum speed and capacity.
- Best for Beginners: Transcend JetDrive 820S 1TB Kit – Comes with everything needed for MacBook Air (2013–2017) upgrades, including step-by-step instructions and a carrying case.
- Best for Advanced Users: External OWC Envoy Pro FX (2TB, Thunderbolt) – For newer Macs with soldered storage. Delivers desktop-class speeds in a portable package—perfect for creatives on the go.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Upgrading your Mac’s SSD is one of the most rewarding tech projects you can undertake—but only if you approach it with the right knowledge and tools. While Best Buy can be a convenient place to purchase hardware, their expertise in Mac-specific upgrades is limited, and their service fees may not justify the risk. For older, user-upgradeable Macs, a DIY approach with a quality third-party SSD from a specialist retailer offers the best balance of cost, performance, and support. For newer models, external Thunderbolt SSDs provide a seamless, non-invasive solution that doesn’t compromise your warranty.
Remember: compatibility comes first, backup is non-negotiable, and brand reputation matters more than a few dollars in savings. Take the time to research your exact Mac model, read real user reviews, and choose a drive that aligns with your workflow and budget. Whether you’re reviving a aging MacBook or maximizing a newer machine’s potential, the right SSD upgrade can deliver years of smooth, responsive performance.
So go ahead—open that back panel, swap that drive, and rediscover what your Mac was meant to do. And if you’re unsure? Start with an external SSD. It’s the safest, most flexible way to expand your storage without opening your machine at all. Your future self will thank you.