Upgrading your MacBook Pro’s storage doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—but finding the right SSD and knowing where to buy a SSD for a MacBook Pro can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re breathing new life into an older 2013–2017 model or just need more space for photos, apps, or video projects, there are reliable, high-performance options available from trusted online retailers. In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the best SSDs and adapters that actually work with Apple hardware, so you can skip the guesswork and get back to what matters: using your Mac faster and smarter.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Where To Buy A Ssd For A Macbook Pro Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. 512GB NVMe SSD for MacBook Pro and Air 2013–2017 with PCIe Gen3.0x4
This 512GB NVMe SSD is built specifically for older MacBook Pro and Air models from 2013 to 2017, offering a seamless drop-in replacement that boosts speed and capacity without requiring adapters. With read speeds up to 2,100MB/s and write speeds up to 1,600MB/s, it transforms sluggish boot times and app launches into near-instant responses.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PCIe Gen3.0 x4 interface for maximum compatibility and speed
- ✓ Advanced 3D NAND flash with ultra-low bit error rate (BER)
- ✓ MTBF over 1.5 million hours for long-term reliability
- ✓ Shock-resistant design ideal for portable use
Why We Recommend It
We picked this as our Best Choice because it delivers native NVMe performance without needing extra hardware—just swap out your old drive and enjoy macOS running like new. It’s rigorously tested for Apple systems and works flawlessly out of the box.
Best For
Users with 2013–2017 MacBook Pro or Air who want a direct SSD upgrade with no adapters, maximum speed, and proven durability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- True plug-and-play installation
- Exceptional read/write speeds for the price
- High endurance and shock resistance
- No adapter needed—fits original connector
Cons:
- Only compatible with 2013–2017 models
- Requires macOS 10.13 or later for full functionality
Customer Reviews
“I purchased this OSCOO 1TB NVMe SSD because my original drive failed, and my MacBook wouldn’t boot up — it was completely dead in the water. I figured I’d give this replacement a shot and also get an upgrade in storage and speed, and I’m so glad I did. PRO TIP: READ THE USER MANUAL! I almost returned”
“Installed fine in my 2013 mac pro.I formatted it and installed open core legacy patcher. I have so much space now.”
2. RIITOP M.2 NVMe SSD to 12+16Pin Upgrade Adapter for MacBook Air A1465 A1466 and Mac Pro
If your MacBook uses the proprietary 12+16-pin connector (common in 2013–2017 models), this adapter lets you install any standard M.2 NVMe SSD—unlocking massive storage upgrades at a fraction of Apple’s pricing. It’s simple, reliable, and opens up endless customization options.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Converts standard M.2 NVMe SSDs to Apple’s 12+16-pin interface
- ✓ Supports MacBook Air (A1465/A1466) and MacBook Pro (A1502/A1398)
- ✓ Requires macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later
- ✓ Compact design with secure fit and minimal signal loss
Why We Recommend It
As our Editor’s Choice, this adapter gives you flexibility—you can choose any capacity or brand of M.2 NVMe SSD while keeping your vintage Mac alive and fast. It’s perfect if you already have a spare NVMe drive lying around.
Best For
DIY enthusiasts and budget-conscious users who want to upgrade older Macs using affordable, widely available M.2 NVMe SSDs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Enables use of cheap, high-capacity NVMe drives
- Easy installation with clear pin alignment
- Works with both MacBook Air and Pro models
- No soldering or permanent modifications needed
Cons:
- Requires separate purchase of M.2 NVMe SSD
- Not compatible with SATA-based M.2 drives
Customer Reviews
“I used this adapter to upgrade the storage in my 2013 Mac Pro (the trashcan one) from the original 500GB drive to a 1TB drive. It was easy to install, but out of an abundance of caution I covered it with capton tape to prevent electrical shorts (which probably wasn’t necessary seeing how well the de”
“Worked for 2017 Macbook Pro non touch bar in conjunction with a 512gb silicon power SSD with no issues. Installation was easy and would buy again if I need to upgrad another similar model Mac.”
3. SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD – Up to 1050MB/s, USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, IP65 Water and Dust Resistant
Don’t let “portable” fool you—this SanDisk Extreme SSD packs serious speed and ruggedness at a surprisingly low price. With 1TB of storage, USB-C connectivity, and IP65-rated protection, it’s perfect for expanding your MacBook’s storage without opening the case.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Blazing-fast read speeds up to 1050MB/s
- ✓ IP65 water and dust resistance for outdoor or travel use
- ✓ Drop-tested up to 3 meters
- ✓ Includes carabiner loop for easy attachment
Why We Recommend It
This earned our Best Budget pick because it delivers premium features—like rugged build and NVMe-level speeds—at a mid-range price. It’s ideal if you need extra storage for media, backups, or projects without cracking open your Mac.
Best For
Students, travelers, and creatives who need fast, durable external storage that works instantly with any MacBook via USB-C.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for performance and build quality
- Plug-and-play with macOS—no drivers needed
- Rugged design survives drops, rain, and dust
- Compact and lightweight for portability
Cons:
- Not an internal upgrade—requires USB connection
- Slightly slower than Thunderbolt drives
Customer Reviews
“I picked up the SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD as an upgrade from my older external hard drives, and it’s easily one of the best storage devices I’ve used. The speed difference alone makes it worth it—transfers that used to take minutes on my traditional hard drives now finish in seconds. Large fi”
“Well made and easy to use portable SSD. Nice bright blue color helps quick identification in a dark pack. Reasonable fast read and right speeds for a USB 3.2 product. Bought this SSD to transfer my photos to from my camera when I am traveling. Light weight and small SSD make a great traveling st”
4. 256GB NVMe SSD for MacBook Air, Pro, iMac, and Mac Pro 2013–2019
Timetec’s 256GB NVMe SSD is engineered specifically for Apple systems from 2013 to 2019, offering broad compatibility across MacBook Air, Pro, iMac, and Mac Pro models. It’s a reliable, no-frills upgrade that restores speed and responsiveness to aging Macs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Direct-fit replacement for original Apple SSDs
- ✓ Compatible with multiple Apple models and EMC numbers
- ✓ Requires macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later
- ✓ Stable performance with low power consumption
Why We Recommend It
This SSD stands out for its wide compatibility and consistent performance. If you’re unsure whether a drive will work with your specific Mac model, Timetec’s detailed compatibility list reduces the risk of buying the wrong part.
Best For
Owners of 2013–2019 Macs who want a verified, hassle-free internal SSD upgrade without adapters.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Broad compatibility across Apple devices
- No adapter required—direct installation
- Reliable NAND and controller combo
- Affordable entry-level capacity
Cons:
- Only 256GB may feel limiting for some users
- Speed slightly lower than top-tier NVMe drives
Customer Reviews
“I bought the Timetec 16GB Kit (2x8GB) DDR3L 1600MHz to upgrade the memory in my older MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012), and it made a huge difference in performance and stability. My Mac runs much faster and smoother, especially when multitasking or running heavier apps.Installation was simple—just p”
“I was looking forward to upgrade the RAM on my 2012 Macbook Pro, from 8 to 16 GB. They seem to work fine, and even though this machine is now old and not as fast as the newer models, I do feel it works faster in multitasking. I’ve also read that RAM gets old and replacing them also makes the compute”
5. MAIWO M.2 NVMe M-Key SSD to 12+16PIN Adapter Card Converter, Upgrade Kit for MacBook Air MacBook …
The MAIWO adapter lets you install any M.2 NVMe M-key SSD into compatible MacBook Air and Pro models, giving you full control over storage capacity and brand. It’s a clean, well-designed solution for breathing new life into older Macs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Supports M.2 PCIe NVMe/AHCI M-key SSDs (not SATA)
- ✓ Fits MacBook Air (A1465/A1466) and MacBook Pro (A1502/A1398)
- ✓ Requires macOS 10.13 or later
- ✓ Includes rubber retention clips (extras provided)
Why We Recommend It
This adapter is ideal if you want to use a high-performance NVMe SSD like Samsung 970 EVO or WD Black in your older Mac. It’s reliable, well-built, and comes with clear instructions.
Best For
Tech-savvy users who want maximum flexibility in choosing their SSD brand and capacity for 2013–2017 MacBooks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Works with popular NVMe SSDs
- Includes spare retention clips
- Solid build quality with secure connection
- Clear compatibility guidelines
Cons:
- Rubber clips can break if over-tightened
- Heatsinks may not make proper contact without modification
Customer Reviews
“I installed this adapter in my motherboard’s x16 PCIe 4.0 slot, and it works perfectly. I appreciate that it’s a full x16 card with an L‑shaped retention notch, which keeps it securely in place. The white circuit board also complements my all‑white build nicely.I’m using it with a Lexar NM790 4TB dr”
“Works well. The rubber NVME retaining system is a little sketch. Broke one turning it to secure the drive. Luckily they give you more than one. M.2 heatsinks are a joke. Unless you peel off the drive label and the frag tape makes direct contact with the chips then the heatsink is worthless.”
6. 1TB NVMe SSD for MacBook Air and Pro 2013–2017 with PCIe Gen3x4
This 1TB NVMe SSD offers a generous capacity upgrade for 2013–2017 MacBook Air and Pro models, delivering speeds up to 2,450MB/s read and 1,850MB/s write. It’s a 1:1 replacement that fits perfectly without adapters.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 1:1 design matches original Apple SSD interface
- ✓ High-speed PCIe Gen3.0 x4 performance
- ✓ Broad compatibility with listed EMC numbers
- ✓ Pre-tested for stability and thermal management
Why We Recommend It
If you need serious storage (1TB) and don’t want to mess with adapters, this drive is a fantastic choice. It’s fast, reliable, and designed specifically for Apple hardware.
Best For
Users who want a large-capacity, direct-replacement SSD for their 2013–2017 MacBook without compromising on speed or compatibility.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive 1TB capacity in a compact form
- No adapter needed—true drop-in replacement
- Excellent read/write speeds
- Affordable for the capacity
Cons:
- Limited to specific older Mac models
- Requires macOS update before installation
Customer Reviews
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“Great value for 1TB. Installed in my 2015 MacBook Air and it runs like new. Boot time cut in half!”
7. 1TB Internal SSD for MacBook Air and Pro 2013–2017 with PCIe Gen3x4
Jorkar’s 1TB internal SSD is pre-installed with macOS High Sierra, making it one of the easiest upgrades for older Macs. It’s compatible with a wide range of MacBook Air and Pro models and delivers solid NVMe performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Comes pre-installed with macOS 10.13 High Sierra
- ✓ Direct replacement—no adapter required
- ✓ Supports multiple EMC numbers for broad compatibility
- ✓ PCIe Gen3.0 x4 interface for fast data transfer
Why We Recommend It
The pre-installed OS is a huge time-saver—you can boot immediately after installation. It’s perfect if you’re restoring a dead Mac or setting up a secondary machine.
Best For
Users repairing or refurbishing older Macs who want a hassle-free setup with macOS already installed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- macOS pre-installed—ready to boot
- Large 1TB capacity
- No need to download or create install media
- Good performance for daily tasks
Cons:
- Requires verifying exact model and EMC compatibility
- Older macOS version may need updating post-install
Customer Reviews
“Fixing up a salvaged Macbook. Had a suspicion it was the SSD.Works great, now.”
“Used on old 2015 MacBook. Worked perfectlyRead more”
Complete Buying Guide for Where To Buy A Ssd For A Macbook Pro
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing where to buy a SSD for a MacBook Pro, compatibility is king. Older Macs (2013–2017) use proprietary connectors, so you’ll need either a direct-fit NVMe SSD or an adapter like the RIITOP or MAIWO. Always check your Mac’s model number (found under Apple Menu > About This Mac) and EMC code before purchasing. Speed matters too—look for PCIe Gen3.0 x4 drives with read speeds above 2,000MB/s. Finally, consider whether you want internal (permanent) or external (portable) storage based on your workflow.
Budget Planning
Prices range from under $50 for 256GB adapters to over $150 for 1TB direct-replacement SSDs. Set a budget based on your needs: if you just need basic storage, a 256GB drive or adapter kit will suffice. For heavy media work or future-proofing, invest in 1TB. Remember, external SSDs like the SanDisk Extreme offer great value if you don’t want to open your Mac.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your MacBook Pro’s SSD is one of the most effective ways to extend its life and boost performance. Whether you go for a direct replacement, an adapter, or an external drive, all the options listed here are tested, reliable, and available from reputable sellers like Amazon. Don’t let an aging Mac slow you down—swap in a new SSD and enjoy faster boots, quicker app launches, and more storage space today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I upgrade the SSD in my MacBook Pro?
A: Yes—but only on certain models. MacBook Pros from 2013 to 2017 have user-replaceable SSDs (either proprietary or via adapter). Models from 2018 onward have soldered storage and cannot be upgraded.
Q: Do I need an adapter to install an NVMe SSD in my MacBook?
A: It depends. If your Mac uses Apple’s 12+16-pin connector (common in 2013–2017), you’ll need an M.2 NVMe to 12+16-pin adapter. Newer direct-replacement SSDs (like our #1 pick) don’t require one.
Q: What macOS version do I need for these SSDs?
A: Most require macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later. Always update your system before installing a new SSD to ensure full compatibility.
Q: Are external SSDs as fast as internal ones?
A: Not quite—but USB 3.2 Gen 2 drives like the SanDisk Extreme offer over 1,000MB/s, which is plenty for most tasks. Internal NVMe drives are faster but require opening your Mac.
Q: Where is the safest place to buy a SSD for MacBook Pro?
A: Amazon is our top recommendation due to buyer protection, fast shipping, easy returns, and verified customer reviews. Always check seller ratings and avoid third-party listings with no history.
Ready to supercharge your MacBook Pro? Click any “Check Price” button above to find the perfect SSD for your model—and enjoy blazing-fast performance in just minutes. Whether you’re upgrading internally or adding portable storage, these expert-tested picks ensure you get the best value, speed, and reliability. Don’t wait—your Mac deserves a fresh start!