Upgrading your iMac with a solid-state drive (SSD) is one of the most impactful performance improvements you can make—especially if you’re working with a newer model that still uses a traditional hard drive or a slower SATA-based SSD. Whether you’re a creative professional editing 4K video, a developer compiling large codebases, or simply someone who values snappy responsiveness and faster boot times, installing a high-performance SSD can transform your computing experience. But here’s the catch: not all iMacs are created equal when it comes to SSD upgrades, and not all retailers offer the same level of service. That’s where this guide comes in.
In this comprehensive buying guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about upgrading your iMac with an SSD—specifically focusing on whether Best Buy can help you install one, what to consider before making the purchase, and how to get the best value for your money. You’ll learn how to evaluate SSD performance specs, understand compatibility nuances across different iMac models, avoid common pitfalls, and even discover expert tips for timing your purchase to save money. We’ll also break down pricing tiers, compare SSD types, and answer frequently asked questions so you can make a confident, informed decision.
The market for SSDs has evolved dramatically in recent years. With the rise of NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) technology, storage speeds have skyrocketed—offering read/write rates that are 5–10 times faster than older SATA drives. At the same time, prices have dropped significantly, making high-capacity, high-speed SSDs more accessible than ever. Retailers like Best Buy now stock a wide range of SSDs from trusted brands such as Samsung, Crucial, WD Black, and Sabrent, and many offer professional installation services. However, Apple’s tightly integrated hardware design means that not every iMac model supports user-upgradeable SSDs, and some require specialized tools or even soldering. This guide will help you navigate those complexities and determine whether Best Buy’s installation service is right for your specific iMac model and needs.
What to Look for When Buying Buying Guide
1. Compatibility with Your iMac Model
The single most important factor when considering an SSD upgrade is whether your iMac actually supports it. Apple has historically made it difficult—and in some cases, impossible—for users to upgrade internal storage on newer iMacs. Starting with the 2012 Retina 5K iMac, Apple began soldering storage directly onto the logic board in many models, eliminating traditional drive bays. This trend continued with the 2017 and later iMacs, especially the 24-inch M1 iMac introduced in 2021, which has no user-accessible internal storage at all.
To determine compatibility, first identify your exact iMac model. You can do this by clicking the Apple menu > About This Mac. Look for the model identifier (e.g., iMac18,3 for a 2017 21.5-inch Retina 4K) and cross-reference it with Apple’s official technical specifications or third-party upgrade databases like iFixit or OWC (Other World Computing). If your iMac uses a removable SSD module (common in 2013–2015 27-inch models), you’re in luck—you can upgrade it yourself or have Best Buy install it. But if your storage is soldered (as in most post-2017 models), internal upgrades are not feasible without advanced microsoldering skills—and even then, it’s risky and voids warranties.
If your iMac doesn’t support internal upgrades, consider external SSDs via Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C. These offer near-internal speeds and are fully supported by macOS. Best Buy carries several high-performance external SSDs that work seamlessly with iMacs, and they can help set them up during installation.
2. Performance Specifications
Not all SSDs are built the same. Performance hinges on several key specs: interface type (SATA vs. NVMe), sequential read/write speeds, random IOPS (Input/Output Operations Per Second), and controller quality. For iMacs that support NVMe SSDs (typically 2013–2015 27-inch models with PCIe slots), aim for drives with read speeds of at least 2,500 MB/s and write speeds above 2,000 MB/s. SATA SSDs, while slower (max ~550 MB/s), are still a massive upgrade over HDDs and are compatible with older iMacs.
Random IOPS matter for everyday tasks like launching apps, multitasking, and file indexing. Look for drives with at least 300,000–500,000 IOPS for smooth performance. Controller chips from Phison, Silicon Motion, or Samsung’s in-house designs tend to offer better reliability and longevity. Also, check for DRAM cache—SSDs with dedicated DRAM buffers perform significantly better under sustained workloads and last longer due to reduced wear on NAND flash memory.
For external SSDs, Thunderbolt 3 drives (like the Samsung X5 or Sabrent Rocket XTRM-Q) can deliver speeds up to 2,800 MB/s, rivaling internal NVMe performance. USB 3.2 Gen 2 drives (10 Gbps) are more affordable and still offer 1,000+ MB/s—perfect for most users. Always verify that the drive supports macOS formatting (APFS or HFS+) out of the box or can be easily reformatted using Disk Utility.
3. Storage Capacity Needs
How much storage do you really need? This depends on your usage. Casual users storing documents, photos, and light apps may be fine with 500GB–1TB. Creative professionals working with large video files, RAW photos, or 3D assets should consider 2TB or more. Keep in mind that macOS itself takes up 30–50GB, and system updates, caches, and temporary files can consume additional space over time.
A good rule of thumb: never let your SSD drop below 10–15% free space, as performance degrades when drives are nearly full. If you’re upgrading from a 1TB HDD, a 1TB or 2TB SSD is ideal. For external drives, consider modular setups—use a fast internal or external SSD for your OS and active projects, and a larger, slower HDD or NAS for archival storage.
Best Buy offers SSDs ranging from 250GB to 8TB, with prices scaling accordingly. While larger capacities cost more per gigabyte at the high end, the performance and convenience often justify the investment—especially if you’re replacing a slow HDD.
4. Brand Reputation & Reliability
Not all SSD brands are equal in terms of build quality, firmware stability, and long-term reliability. Stick with established manufacturers known for consistent performance and strong customer support. Samsung (970 EVO Plus, 980 PRO), Crucial (P5 Plus, MX500), Western Digital (WD Black SN850X), and Sabrent (Rocket Q, Rocket 4 Plus) are among the most trusted names in the industry.
Avoid no-name or ultra-budget brands that may use lower-grade NAND flash or lack proper error correction. These drives may fail prematurely or suffer from data corruption. Check professional reviews from sources like Tom’s Hardware, AnandTech, or StorageReview for real-world performance and endurance testing. Also, look for brands that offer robust firmware updates and diagnostic tools (e.g., Samsung Magician, Crucial Storage Executive).
Best Buy carries only reputable brands, so you’re less likely to encounter counterfeit or low-quality drives. However, always verify the model number and check for authenticity seals or serial number validation on the manufacturer’s website.
5. Warranty & Support
A strong warranty is a sign of manufacturer confidence in their product. Most premium SSDs come with 5-year limited warranties, often tied to terabytes written (TBW)—a measure of endurance. For example, a 1TB Samsung 980 PRO might have a 600 TBW rating, meaning it can safely write 600 terabytes of data over its lifetime. Higher TBW = longer lifespan under heavy use.
Check what the warranty covers: typically, defects in materials and workmanship, but not physical damage or improper installation. Some brands offer data recovery services or expedited replacements. Crucial, for instance, provides free shipping for warranty claims and often sends replacement drives before receiving the defective unit.
Best Buy’s Geek Squad offers extended protection plans for SSDs and installation services, which can be valuable if you’re not comfortable doing the upgrade yourself. However, note that opening your iMac may void Apple’s warranty if done improperly—so weigh the risks. For newer iMacs with soldered storage, external SSDs are a safer bet and often come with their own warranties.
6. Installation Service Options
This is where Best Buy comes into play. If your iMac supports internal SSD upgrades, Best Buy’s Geek Squad offers professional installation services at most retail locations. They’ll handle the disassembly, SSD installation, macOS reinstallation (if needed), and basic setup. This is ideal for users who lack technical confidence or don’t have the right tools (like pentalobe screwdrivers or suction cups for display removal).
However, Geek Squad’s capabilities vary by location and technician expertise. Some stores may only support certain iMac models or charge extra for complex jobs. Always call ahead to confirm availability and get a quote. Installation typically costs $99–$199, depending on the model and whether data migration is included.
For external SSDs, installation is simpler—just plug and play. Best Buy can help format the drive, transfer data, and set it as the startup disk. They may also offer backup solutions using Time Machine or cloud services. If you’re buying the SSD and installation together, ask about bundle discounts.
7. Price vs. Value
SSDs vary widely in price, from $30 for a basic 250GB SATA drive to $800+ for an 8TB NVMe model. Don’t just chase the lowest price—consider cost per gigabyte, performance, and longevity. A $150 1TB NVMe SSD with 3,500 MB/s speeds offers far better value than a $100 1TB SATA drive with 500 MB/s.
Look for sales during Black Friday, back-to-school season (July–August), or Amazon Prime Day. Best Buy often matches online prices and offers in-store pickup. Also, consider refurbished or open-box SSDs—these are typically tested and come with warranties at a discount.
Remember: the SSD is a long-term investment. Spending a bit more upfront for a reliable, high-performance drive can save you from frustration, data loss, or the need for another upgrade in a year.
8. Future-Proofing & Upgrade Path
Think ahead. If you’re buying an SSD for a newer iMac that supports Thunderbolt 3, consider a drive with USB4 or Thunderbolt 4 compatibility for future-proofing. These interfaces offer backward compatibility and higher bandwidth for upcoming devices.
Also, consider whether you might upgrade your entire system soon. If you’re planning to buy a new Mac in the next 1–2 years, investing in a high-end internal SSD may not be worth it. Instead, opt for a portable external SSD you can reuse with your next machine.
For developers or power users, look for SSDs with hardware encryption (AES-256) and TCG Opal compliance for secure data handling. Some enterprise-grade drives also support power-loss protection, which prevents data corruption during unexpected shutdowns.
Different Types of Buying Guide
Common Buying Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Mistake: Assuming All iMacs Support Internal SSD Upgrades
Why it’s bad: Many users buy expensive NVMe SSDs only to discover their iMac’s storage is soldered and non-upgradeable. This leads to wasted money and frustration.
What to do instead: Always verify your iMac model and upgradeability before purchasing. Use Apple’s support page or iFixit’s teardown guides. When in doubt, opt for an external SSD.
❌ Mistake: Choosing the Cheapest SSD Without Checking Specs
Why it’s bad: Budget SSDs often useQLC NAND, which has lower endurance and slower write speeds under load. They may also lack DRAM cache, leading to performance drops.
What to do instead: Prioritize TLC or MLC NAND, DRAM cache, and reputable controllers. Spend a little more for a drive that will last 5+ years.
❌ Mistake: Skipping Data Backup Before Installation
Why it’s bad: Installing a new SSD often requires wiping the old drive. Without a backup, you risk permanent data loss.
What to do instead: Use Time Machine or a cloud service to back up your entire system before starting. Best Buy can assist with this during installation.
❌ Mistake: Ignoring macOS Compatibility
Why it’s bad: Some SSDs come pre-formatted for Windows (NTFS), which macOS can’t write to without third-party software.
What to do instead: Choose drives that support APFS or HFS+, or be prepared to reformat using Disk Utility. Best Buy staff can help with this step.
❌ Mistake: Overlooking Warranty and Return Policies
Why it’s bad: If the SSD fails or is incompatible, you may be stuck with a non-returnable item.
What to do instead: Buy from retailers with generous return windows (Best Buy offers 15 days for most electronics). Check the manufacturer’s warranty terms.
❌ Mistake: Attempting Complex Upgrades Without Experience
Why it’s bad: iMac disassembly requires precision. One wrong move can crack the display, damage cables, or void your warranty.
What to do instead: Use professional installation services like Geek Squad, especially for 27-inch models. Watch iFixit guides first if DIY-ing.
❌ Mistake: Buying More Storage Than You Need
Why it’s bad: Overspending on 4TB+ drives when 1TB would suffice wastes money and may not improve performance.
What to do instead: Assess your actual usage. Use tools like DaisyDisk to analyze storage. Start with 1TB and expand later if needed.
Budget Guidelines: How Much Should You Spend?
- Entry-Level ($50–$100): Ideal for basic upgrades on older iMacs. Look for 500GB SATA SSDs from Crucial or Samsung. Expect 500 MB/s speeds—still a massive improvement over HDDs. Best for students or light users.
- Mid-Range ($100–$200): The sweet spot for most users. 1TB NVMe SSDs (Samsung 980, WD Blue SN570) or high-performance SATA drives (Crucial MX500). Great balance of speed, capacity, and price.
- Premium ($200–$400): For power users and creatives. 2TB NVMe drives with 3,500+ MB/s speeds (Samsung 980 PRO, Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus). Includes DRAM cache and 5-year warranties.
- Luxury ($400+): Top-tier performance and capacity. 4TB–8TB NVMe SSDs or Thunderbolt 3 external drives. Best for video editors, developers, or those who want maximum future-proofing.
Expert Tips for Getting the Best Deal
- Time your purchase: SSD prices drop during major sales events. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and back-to-school season (July–August) offer the best discounts. Sign up for Best Buy’s deal alerts.
- Buy the SSD and installation together: Best Buy often offers package deals when you purchase hardware and Geek Squad services in one transaction. You might save $20–$50.
- Check for open-box deals: Open-box SSDs at Best Buy are typically returned items that have been tested and repackaged. They come with full warranties and can be 20–30% cheaper.
- Use student or military discounts: Best Buy offers exclusive pricing for students, teachers, and military personnel. Verify your status online for instant savings.
- Compare online and in-store prices: Best Buy matches most online retailers. If you find a lower price elsewhere, they’ll honor it—just bring proof to the store.
- Ask about data migration: If you’re replacing an internal drive, ask if Geek Squad includes data transfer in the installation fee. Some locations charge extra, while others include it.
- Test the drive after installation: Once installed, use Blackmagic Disk Speed Test or AmorphousDiskMark to verify performance. If speeds are lower than expected, contact Geek Squad for troubleshooting.
- Register your SSD: After purchase, register your drive on the manufacturer’s website to activate the full warranty and receive firmware updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Best Buy install an SSD in my iMac?
A: Yes, but only if your iMac model supports internal SSD upgrades. Best Buy’s Geek Squad offers professional installation for compatible models (typically 2013–2015 27-inch iMacs). For newer iMacs with soldered storage, they can help set up external SSDs. Always call ahead to confirm service availability.
Q: Will installing an SSD void my Apple warranty?
A: If done by an unauthorized technician, yes—Apple may deny warranty claims for damage related to unauthorized modifications. However, using Best Buy’s Geek Squad doesn’t automatically void your warranty unless they cause damage. For peace of mind, consider external SSDs, which don’t require opening the iMac.
Q: What’s the difference between SATA and NVMe SSDs?
A: SATA SSDs use the older SATA interface and max out at ~550 MB/s. NVMe SSDs use the faster PCIe interface and can reach 3,500+ MB/s. NVMe is only compatible with iMacs that have PCIe slots (2013–2015 27-inch models).
Q: Do I need to reinstall macOS after upgrading?
A: Yes, if you’re replacing the internal drive. You can reinstall macOS via Recovery Mode (Cmd+R at startup). Best Buy can handle this during installation. For external SSDs, you can clone your existing drive or install macOS fresh.
Q: Can I use an external SSD as my main drive?
A: Absolutely. With Thunderbolt 3 or USB 3.2, external SSDs offer near-internal performance. You can set it as the startup disk in System Settings > Startup Disk. It’s a great solution for newer iMacs.
Q: How long do SSDs last?
A: Modern SSDs are very durable. Most have 5-year warranties and can handle hundreds of terabytes written. For typical use, an SSD should last 7–10 years or more.
Q: What if my iMac doesn’t have Thunderbolt 3?
A: Older iMacs may only have USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt 2. In that case, use a USB 3.0 external SSD. While slower than Thunderbolt, it’s still much faster than an HDD.
Q: Can I upgrade the SSD in a 24-inch M1 iMac?
A: No. The 24-inch M1 iMac has soldered storage with no user-accessible upgrade path. Your only option is an external SSD.
Q: Does Best Buy offer financing for SSD upgrades?
A: Yes. Best Buy offers financing through their My Best Buy Credit Card, with options like 0% APR for 12–18 months on qualifying purchases. This can make high-end SSDs more affordable.
Q: What tools do I need to install an SSD myself?
A: For 27-inch iMacs, you’ll need a suction cup, pentalobe screwdriver, spudger, and anti-static wrist strap. iFixit sells complete iMac repair kits. However, we recommend professional installation unless you’re experienced.
Our Final Recommendations
- Best for Budget-Conscious Buyers: Crucial MX500 1TB SATA SSD ($89) – Reliable, fast for SATA, and excellent value. Perfect for older iMacs.
- Best Overall Value: Samsung 980 1TB NVMe SSD ($119) – Great performance, low power use, and strong endurance. Ideal for 2013–2015 iMacs.
- Best Premium Option: Samsung 980 PRO 2TB NVMe SSD ($249) – Blazing speeds, DRAM cache, and 5-year warranty. Top choice for professionals.
- Best for Beginners: WD Black P50 Game Drive 1TB Thunderbolt 3 ($199) – Plug-and-play external SSD with macOS support. No installation needed.
- Best for Advanced Users: Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus 4TB NVMe SSD ($399) – High capacity, extreme speeds, and excellent for video editing or large datasets.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Upgrading your iMac with an SSD is a smart move—but only if you choose the right drive and installation method for your specific model and needs. While Best Buy can be a valuable partner in this process, offering both quality SSDs and professional Geek Squad installation, success hinges on understanding your iMac’s limitations and your own technical comfort level. Always verify compatibility first, prioritize reputable brands, and consider external SSDs if internal upgrades aren’t possible.
Remember, the goal isn’t just faster boot times—it’s a smoother, more responsive computing experience that lets you focus on what matters most, whether that’s creating, coding, or simply enjoying your Mac. By following the guidance in this guide, avoiding common pitfalls, and leveraging expert tips, you’ll make a purchase that delivers lasting value and performance.
Don’t rush. Take the time to assess your needs, compare options, and consult with professionals if needed. And when you’re ready, head to Best Buy with confidence—you now have the knowledge to make the best decision for your iMac and your workflow.