Is your MacBook Pro feeling a bit sluggish lately? Are you constantly running out of storage space, or just wishing your applications would load a little faster? If so, you’re not alone! Upgrading your MacBook Pro’s storage to a speedy Solid State Drive (SSD) can breathe new life into your machine, making everything from booting up to editing large files a breeze. And when you’re on the hunt for the Sabrent best 512 SSD hard drive for MacBook Pro or other excellent alternatives, you’ve certainly got some fantastic options available.
A 512GB SSD is often the sweet spot for many users – offering a significant boost in performance over older HDDs or smaller SSDs, ample space for your operating system, applications, and a good chunk of your personal files, all without breaking the bank. In this article, we’re diving deep into five top-notch 512GB SSD options that can seriously elevate your MacBook Pro experience, including a standout offering from Sabrent. Let’s get cracking!
Our Top 512GB SSD Picks for MacBook Pro
We’ve rounded up a selection of 512GB SSDs that offer great performance, reliability, and compatibility, helping you make an informed decision for your MacBook Pro.
Jorkar A1708 SSD Hard Drive 512GB for MacBook Pro NVMe
Looking for a straightforward, ready-to-go upgrade for your specific MacBook Pro model? The Jorkar A1708 SSD is designed with a particular niche in mind: the non-Touch Bar MacBook Pro A1708 models from late 2016 to mid-2017. What makes this drive particularly appealing is its convenience – it often comes pre-installed with macOS High Sierra, meaning you’re a step closer to getting your system up and running with minimal fuss. This internal NVMe drive promises a noticeable speed bump, especially if you’re upgrading from a much older, slower drive.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with MacBook Pro A1708 (2016 EMC 2978, 2017 EMC 3164) – Non-Touch Bar models only.
- Pre-installed with macOS High Sierra 10.13 (upgradeable).
- Read speeds up to 2150 MB/s, write speeds up to 1650 MB/s (for 1TB version, 512GB speeds will be similar/slightly less).
- Enhances boot times, application loading, and overall system responsiveness.
- Data encryption support for security.
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Pros:
- Highly compatible with specific A1708 MacBook Pro models.
- Comes with macOS pre-installed, simplifying setup.
- Offers significant speed improvements over original drives.
- Plug-and-play ready for supported models.
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Cons:
- Limited compatibility to specific non-Touch Bar A1708 models.
- Requires backing up original data before installation.
- Need to ensure both model and EMC match for compatibility.
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User Impressions:
Users praise this SSD for its straightforward installation process and the noticeable speed increase it brings to their older A1708 MacBooks. The pre-loaded macOS is a huge plus for those who prefer not to deal with creating bootable installers. Many find it a cost-effective way to extend the life of their beloved laptop.
SABRENT Rocket Nano 512GB USB 3.2 10Gb/s External Aluminum
Sometimes, the Sabrent best 512 SSD hard drive for MacBook Pro isn’t an internal upgrade, but a powerful external solution that offers unparalleled portability and speed. Enter the Sabrent Rocket Nano. This tiny-but-mighty external SSD delivers blistering 10Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 2) throughput, making it perfect for professionals on the go, gamers who need quick access to large libraries, or anyone who wants a super-fast backup drive. Its sleek aluminum design isn’t just for looks; it ensures durability while remaining incredibly compact.
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Key Features:
- Ultra-fast 10Gbps throughput (up to 1000MB/s).
- Compatible with both Windows and Mac OS.
- OS independent and fully bus-powered (no external adapter needed).
- Supports TRIM, UASP, and upgradable firmware.
- Sleek, durable, and ultra-slim aluminum alloy sandblasted shell.
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Pros:
- Exceptional portability and compact design.
- Blazing-fast data transfer speeds for external storage.
- Robust aluminum build quality.
- True plug-and-play experience, no drivers required.
- Versatile for various uses: data transfer, backup, extended storage.
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Cons:
- It’s an external drive, not an internal upgrade.
- Speed might be limited by your MacBook Pro’s USB port capabilities.
- May require a USB-C to USB-C cable for newer Macs if not included.
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User Impressions:
Customers absolutely rave about the Rocket Nano’s speed and incredibly small footprint. It’s often highlighted as a fantastic option for video editors, photographers, or anyone needing to run applications directly from an external drive. The build quality gets high marks, and its cross-platform compatibility is a big win for many.
INDMEM 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD 3D TLC NAND Flash Hard
The INDMEM 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD is another solid contender for those looking to upgrade their compatible MacBook Pro. Built with a reliable Silicon Motion Controller and 3D TLC NAND Flash, this drive is engineered for both performance and longevity. It boasts impressive read and write speeds, significantly outperforming traditional hard drives and even many older SSDs. A crucial point to remember for this, and many other aftermarket MacBook Pro SSDs, is the pre-installation macOS update requirement, so make sure your current OS is 10.13 High Sierra or newer before attempting the swap!
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Key Features:
- Built with Silicon Motion Controller and 3D TLC NAND Flash for reliability.
- Fast PCIe NVMe Gen3*4 speeds: Read up to 1800MB/s, Write up to 1400MB/s.
- Supports TRIM, NCQ, and S.M.A.R.T for optimized performance and health monitoring.
- High Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) of 1 million hours.
- Requires macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) or later to be installed on the original SSD prior to removal.
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Pros:
- Good blend of speed and reliability with quality components.
- Offers a substantial performance upgrade for compatible Macs.
- Supports essential SSD technologies for optimal operation.
- Detailed installation instructions available on the official website.
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Cons:
- Strict requirement to update macOS to 10.13 or newer before installation.
- Requires formatting and macOS installation on the new SSD.
- May not be recognized if the pre-installation macOS update is skipped.
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User Impressions:
Users appreciate the INDMEM for its robust performance after a successful installation. While the macOS pre-requisite is a common hurdle, those who follow the instructions find the drive to be a fast and reliable upgrade, often noting a night-and-day difference in their MacBook Pro’s responsiveness. The detailed guides provided are a big help.
FLEANE FM17A 512GB PCIE 3.0×4 NVME 3D NAND TLC Flash
The FLEANE FM17A is an excellent kit for those who want a comprehensive package when upgrading their compatible MacBook Pro. Not only do you get a speedy 512GB NVMe SSD, but FLEANE sweetens the deal by including essential tools and even a bootable USB installer with macOS Big Sur. This means you’re not just buying a drive; you’re buying a solution designed to make the upgrade process as smooth as possible, particularly for the MacBook Pro Retina A1708 (non-Touch Bar) models. Its performance figures are competitive, promising a significant boost to your Mac’s overall speed.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with MacBook Pro Retina A1708 Late 2016-Mid 2017 (Non-Touch Bar).
- Includes a 512GB SSD (pre-loaded with Catalina), a 16GB USB Bootable Installer (OS Big Sur).
- Comes with 2 screwdrivers and a USB to Type-C Adapter.
- Fast speeds: Read up to 1950MB/S, Write up to 1500MB/S.
- 3-year worry-free warranty.
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Pros:
- All-inclusive kit with tools and macOS installers.
- SSD comes pre-loaded with an OS, saving a step.
- Strong read/write speeds for enhanced performance.
- Good warranty support for peace of mind.
- Specifically designed for exact compatibility.
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Cons:
- Strict compatibility to A1708 non-Touch Bar models.
- Still requires the original SSD to be on macOS 10.13 or later for firmware update.
- The pre-loaded OS may not be your preferred version (though a bootable installer is included).
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User Impressions:
Customers love the value proposition of the FLEANE FM17A, especially the included tools and bootable USB drive, which simplifies the entire upgrade process. The speed improvement is frequently highlighted, and the responsive customer support is a recurring positive comment, making it a favorite for DIY upgraders.
FLEANE MZ17C 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD for 2016 2017 MacBook
Rounding out our list is another offering from FLEANE, the MZ17C 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD. Much like its sibling, the FM17A, this drive targets the MacBook Pro Retina A1708 (non-Touch Bar) models from 2016-2017. What sets the MZ17C apart is its emphasis on a seamless, “no adapter needed” direct fit, mirroring the original interface for safer and potentially more reliable operation. It also comes with a macOS Monterey 12 bootable installer, ensuring you’re ready for a fresh, modern installation right out of the box. Performance is solid, making it a smart upgrade for supported MacBooks.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with MacBook Pro Retina A1708 Late 2016-Mid 2017 (Non-Touch Bar).
- Includes a 512GB SSD, 16GB USB Bootable Installer (macOS Monterey 12), 2 screwdrivers, and a USB to Type-C Adapter.
- Native interface, no adapter required for installation.
- Read speeds up to 1750MB/S, Write speeds up to 1400MB/S.
- 3-year worry-free warranty.
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Pros:
- Direct fit (same interface as original), reducing potential compatibility issues.
- Comprehensive kit with tools and latest macOS Monterey installer.
- Good balance of speed and reliability.
- Excellent warranty support.
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Cons:
- Limited to specific A1708 non-Touch Bar models.
- The critical macOS 10.13 High Sierra update on the original SSD is still a prerequisite.
- Stated speeds can vary slightly depending on the specific computer.
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User Impressions:
Users appreciate the native interface design of the MZ17C, which provides extra confidence during installation. The inclusion of macOS Monterey 12 is a definite highlight for those wanting the latest OS. Like the FM17A, the all-in-one kit and the strong warranty make this a favored choice for those seeking a complete and supported upgrade solution.
Conclusion: Finding Your MacBook Pro’s Perfect 512GB SSD
Upgrading your MacBook Pro with a 512GB SSD is one of the most impactful ways to boost its performance and extend its lifespan. Whether you’re considering the Sabrent best 512 SSD hard drive for MacBook Pro in the form of an incredibly fast external drive like the Rocket Nano, or an internal NVMe upgrade from Jorkar, INDMEM, or FLEANE, there’s a solution tailored to your needs.
Remember to double-check your MacBook Pro’s exact model number and, for internal upgrades, be sure to update your macOS to High Sierra (10.13) or later before you even touch that screwdriver. With a little careful planning, you’ll be enjoying a snappier, more responsive MacBook Pro in no time!
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About MacBook Pro SSD Upgrades
Q1: Why should I upgrade my MacBook Pro’s SSD?
A: Upgrading to a newer, larger, or faster SSD can drastically improve your MacBook Pro’s performance. You’ll experience quicker boot times, faster application loading, snappier file transfers, and overall better system responsiveness. It’s often the single best upgrade for an aging Mac.
Q2: Can I install a 512GB SSD in my MacBook Pro myself, or do I need professional help?
A: For specific MacBook Pro models (like the A1708 mentioned in this article), installing an SSD can be a DIY project for those comfortable with small electronics and following detailed guides. Many SSD kits even come with the necessary tools. However, for newer MacBook Pro models with soldered SSDs, an internal upgrade isn’t possible, and an external SSD is your only option. If you’re unsure, consulting a professional is always a safe bet.
Q3: What’s the difference between an NVMe PCIe SSD and a SATA SSD?
A: NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) SSDs use a much faster interface than older SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) SSDs. NVMe drives connect directly to the motherboard’s PCIe lanes, offering significantly higher read and write speeds, which translates to superior performance, especially for demanding tasks. Most modern MacBook Pro internal SSDs use the NVMe PCIe standard.
Q4: Do I really need to update macOS to High Sierra (10.13) or later before installing a new internal SSD?
A: Yes, for many MacBook Pro models (especially 2016-2017), this is a critical step. macOS High Sierra and later versions include firmware updates for your MacBook Pro that allow it to recognize and communicate with newer NVMe SSDs. Without this firmware update, your new SSD simply won’t be detected after installation.
Q5: Is Sabrent a good brand for MacBook Pro SSDs?
A: Absolutely! Sabrent has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality, high-performance storage solutions. While the internal SSDs listed here are from other brands, Sabrent’s external SSDs like the Rocket Nano are top-tier, offering excellent speed, reliability, and build quality, making them a fantastic choice for expanding your MacBook Pro’s storage or for super-fast portable data.
Q6: What are the benefits of an external 512GB SSD like the Sabrent Rocket Nano compared to an internal upgrade?
A: External SSDs offer portability, easy plug-and-play functionality, and can be used across multiple devices. They don’t require opening up your MacBook Pro, preserving your warranty and avoiding complex installations. While they don’t replace your internal boot drive, they’re perfect for high-speed backups, running virtual machines, or storing large media libraries that you need to access quickly.
Q7: Will 512GB of SSD storage be enough for my MacBook Pro?
A: For many users, 512GB is an ideal amount. It comfortably accommodates macOS, essential applications, and a substantial amount of personal documents, photos, and some videos. If you’re a heavy multimedia creator or store vast game libraries, you might eventually need more, but for general use and even moderate professional work, 512GB provides an excellent balance of space and performance.