Looking for the best SSD for MacBook Air 2017? You’re not alone—many users want to breathe new life into their aging but still capable machines with a faster, more reliable storage upgrade. The 2017 MacBook Air uses a proprietary Apple SSD format (12+16 pin connector), which limits compatibility but opens the door to high-performance NVMe options when you choose the right model. Whether you’re replacing a failing drive or simply upgrading for speed and capacity, we’ve tested and compared the top SSDs that fit, perform well, and offer great value. Below, you’ll find our expert-vetted list of the best SSDs for MacBook Air 2017, complete with real user feedback and key buying tips.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Which Ssd Is Best For Macbook Air 2017 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. FM13A 256GB NVMe SSD with DIY Tools for MacBook Air A1465 A1466
This SSD stands out as our top pick thanks to its perfect 1:1 design matching Apple’s original drive, blazing-fast read/write speeds up to 1700MB/s and 1300MB/s, and inclusion of essential DIY tools. It’s ideal for users who want a hassle-free upgrade without adapters or firmware headaches.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ True plug-and-play compatibility with MacBook Air 2013–2017 (A1465/A1466)
- ✓ Includes screwdriver kit and bootable USB drive for easy installation
- ✓ Pre-formatted with macOS support—no need to reinstall OS from scratch
- ✓ Built with 3D TLC NAND for long-term reliability and endurance
Why We Recommend It
We love how this SSD eliminates common upgrade frustrations. The included boot drive and tools mean even beginners can swap drives confidently. Plus, it delivers near-identical performance to newer Macs, making your 2017 Air feel noticeably snappier.
Best For
Users seeking a reliable, no-fuss SSD upgrade with everything needed in one package—perfect for students, professionals, or anyone reviving an older MacBook Air.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exact physical and electrical match for original Apple SSD
- Comes with helpful installation accessories
- Excellent real-world speed and stability
- Supports macOS High Sierra and later out of the box
Cons:
- Only 256GB capacity—may feel limiting for media-heavy users
- Requires macOS 10.13 or newer (not compatible with older systems)
Customer Reviews
“It worked just as advertised fast speed, and it has the operating system installed already, which makes it easy very easy to install inside the computer”
“I was in a rush since the SSD in my old mid-2015 MacPro died, so I didn’t notice the third photo down in the seller’s description. But this SSD comes pre-formatted AND comes with a high-quality boot USB thumb drive. These extras saved a huge amount of time. Most importantly, the new replacement SSD w”
2. 1TB NVMe SSD for MacBook – PCIe Gen3.0x4 Internal SSD, Up to 2100MB/s
If you need massive storage without sacrificing speed, this 1TB NVMe SSD is our Editor’s Choice. With read speeds up to 2100MB/s and write speeds hitting 1700MB/s, it transforms your MacBook Air into a capable machine for video editing, large projects, or extensive file libraries.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 1TB capacity—ideal for power users and creatives
- ✓ PCIe Gen3.0 x4 interface ensures maximum bandwidth utilization
- ✓ Advanced 3D NAND flash delivers consistent performance under load
- ✓ Rigorously tested for over 1.5 million hours MTBF (mean time between failures)
Why We Recommend It
This SSD offers the best balance of capacity, speed, and durability. While it doesn’t include installation tools, its raw performance and reliability make it a standout for users who prioritize storage space and future-proofing.
Best For
Professionals, content creators, or anyone needing extra room for apps, files, and backups—without compromising on speed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional 1TB storage at an affordable price per GB
- Top-tier NVMe performance close to modern MacBook standards
- Robust build quality with shock resistance
- Low power consumption helps preserve battery life
Cons:
- No included installation tools or boot media
- Requires manual macOS reinstallation or cloning
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 legscy patcher. I have so much space now.”
3. 512GB NVMe SSD for MacBook – PCIe Gen3.0x4 Internal SSD, Up to 2100MB/s
Offering half a terabyte of fast NVMe storage at a wallet-friendly price, this SSD earns our “Best Budget” badge. It delivers near-flagship speeds (2100MB/s read, 1600MB/s write) while costing significantly less than Apple-branded or premium third-party options.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Outstanding value—high performance at a low cost per GB
- ✓ Compatible with MacBook Air 2013–2017 and select MacBook Pro models
- ✓ Uses efficient 3D TLC NAND for balanced speed and longevity
- ✓ Low failure rate with strong error correction
Why We Recommend It
For users who want a meaningful upgrade without overspending, this SSD hits the sweet spot. It’s reliable, fast, and widely compatible—making it perfect for everyday tasks, schoolwork, or light creative projects.
Best For
Budget-conscious upgraders who still want modern NVMe performance and ample storage for documents, photos, and apps.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Smooth operation for daily computing tasks
- Energy-efficient design supports longer battery life
- Easy to install with basic tools
Cons:
- No bundled software or recovery tools
- Write speeds slightly lower than premium competitors
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 legscy patcher. I have so much space now.”
4. 256GB NVMe SSD for MacBook – PCIe Gen3.0x4 Internal SSD, Up to 1900MB/s
A solid mid-tier option, this 256GB SSD delivers reliable performance with read speeds up to 1900MB/s. It’s built with the same high standards as its larger siblings but suits users who don’t need extra capacity.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Optimized for MacBook Air 2013–2017 with proper pin layout
- ✓ Stable performance under continuous use
- ✓ Energy-efficient controller reduces heat and power draw
- ✓ Backed by rigorous quality testing
Why We Recommend It
This SSD is a dependable workhorse. While not the fastest or largest, it offers consistent speeds and compatibility—ideal for users replacing a failed drive or upgrading from slower SATA-based storage.
Best For
General users looking for a straightforward, reliable SSD replacement without frills—great for web browsing, office apps, and light multimedia.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stable and predictable performance
- Low power consumption
- Affordable entry point for NVMe upgrades
Cons:
- 256GB may fill up quickly with modern apps
- No installation accessories included
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 legscy patcher. I have so much space now.”
5. 1TB SSD 12+16 pin for MacBook Air/pro Upgrade, Internal SSD Hard Drive PCIe Gen3x4
This Jorkar SSD offers a massive 1TB of storage in the correct 12+16 pin form factor, pre-installed with macOS High Sierra for immediate usability. It’s a great choice if you want plug-and-play simplicity with huge capacity.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Pre-loaded with macOS High Sierra—boots immediately after install
- ✓ Exact physical match for A1466 and A1465 MacBook Air models
- ✓ PCIe Gen3 x4 interface ensures strong performance
- ✓ Includes clear compatibility guide to avoid mismatched purchases
Why We Recommend It
The pre-installed OS is a game-changer for users who dread reinstalling macOS. Combined with 1TB of space, this SSD lets you restore your MacBook Air to full functionality in minutes.
Best For
Users who want a seamless, no-hassle upgrade with maximum storage—especially helpful for those unfamiliar with macOS recovery or disk cloning.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- MacOS pre-installed saves hours of setup
- Huge 1TB capacity for all your needs
- Clear model compatibility instructions reduce risk
Cons:
- Slightly higher price than bare drives
- Limited to specific EMC numbers—double-check before buying
Customer Reviews
“Fixing up a salvaged Macbook. Had a suspicion it was the SSD. Works great, now.”
“Used on old 2015 MacBook. Worked perfectly Read more”
6. GAMERKING 256GB NVMe SSD for MacBook, PCIe Gen3x4, 3D TLC NAND Flash
GAMERKING delivers a well-built 256GB NVMe SSD that matches the original Apple drive’s dimensions and performance. With speeds up to 2450MB/s read and 1850MB/s write, it’s one of the faster options in this form factor.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 1:1 design—no adapter needed, fits perfectly
- ✓ High-speed PCIe Gen3 x4 interface
- ✓ 3D TLC NAND ensures data integrity and longevity
- ✓ Broad compatibility across Mid 2013 to 2017 MacBook Air/Pro
Why We Recommend It
This SSD combines speed, fit, and reliability. It’s ideal for users who want near-peak performance without worrying about physical compatibility issues.
Best For
Performance-focused users who want the fastest possible SSD in their 2017 MacBook Air without sacrificing stability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- One of the fastest SSDs available for this model
- Precise fit eliminates installation guesswork
- Solid build quality from a reputable brand
Cons:
- 256GB capacity may be tight for some
- No included tools or recovery media
Customer Reviews
“The GAMERKING 256GB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD delivers solid performance with stable speeds on PCIe Gen 3.0×4. Build quality feels reliable, and installation was straightforward. This size and form factor make it ideal for upgrading handheld gaming consoles, ultrabooks, or mini PCs that use the 2230 slot. Ve”
“Honest seller and incredibly accurate product. I bought this to replace my SSD in my 2015 MacBook Pro that abruptly died before I can backup. I came across this sellers product that advertises not only being compatible but the MacOS came already installed so I could bypass the restore from disk util”
7. FM13A 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD with DIY Tools for MacBook Air A1465 A1466
The bigger sibling to our #1 pick, this 512GB FM13A SSD offers double the storage while retaining all the benefits: perfect fit, included tools, bootable USB, and macOS-ready formatting.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 512GB capacity strikes a sweet spot between space and cost
- ✓ Includes screwdriver set and bootable USB drive
- ✓ Read/write speeds up to 1850MB/s and 1450MB/s
- ✓ Fully compatible with macOS High Sierra and later
Why We Recommend It
If you loved the FM13A 256GB but need more room, this is the natural upgrade. It’s reliable, fast, and comes with everything needed for a smooth swap.
Best For
Users who want the best of both worlds: ample storage and hassle-free installation with premium support tools.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great mid-range capacity for most users
- All-in-one upgrade kit reduces stress
- Proven reliability and performance
Cons:
- Pricier than bare drives without accessories
- Still requires macOS 10.13 or newer
Customer Reviews
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Complete Buying Guide for Which SSD Is Best for MacBook Air 2017
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best SSD for MacBook Air 2017, we prioritize compatibility, performance, ease of installation, and value. The 2017 MacBook Air uses a unique 12+16 pin NVMe SSD, so generic M.2 drives won’t fit. Always verify your model (A1465 or A1466) and EMC number before purchasing. Speed matters—look for PCIe Gen3 x4 support with read speeds above 1500MB/s. Finally, consider whether you need bundled tools or pre-installed macOS, especially if you’re not comfortable with recovery modes.
Budget Planning
Prices range from around $40 for basic 256GB drives to over $120 for 1TB kits with accessories. Set a budget based on your storage needs: 256GB suits light users, 512GB is ideal for most, and 1TB is best for media or professional work. Remember, investing in a reputable brand reduces the risk of data loss and ensures long-term reliability.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your MacBook Air 2017 with a new SSD is one of the most effective ways to extend its life. Whether you choose our Best Choice (FM13A 256GB), Editor’s Choice (1TB NVMe), or Best Budget (512GB NVMe), you’ll enjoy faster boot times, quicker app launches, and smoother multitasking. Don’t forget to back up your data before starting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use any M.2 SSD in my MacBook Air 2017?
A: No. The MacBook Air 2017 uses a proprietary 12+16 pin connector, not standard M.2. Only SSDs specifically designed for Apple’s 2013–2017 MacBook Air/Pro models will fit.
Q: Do I need to reinstall macOS after swapping the SSD?
A: It depends. Some SSDs come pre-formatted with macOS (like the FM13A or Jorkar models), while others require you to install macOS via Recovery Mode or a bootable USB.
Q: Will upgrading the SSD void my warranty?
A: Since the MacBook Air 2017 is no longer under Apple’s standard warranty (typically 1 year), upgrading won’t affect coverage. However, always handle components carefully to avoid damage.
Q: How do I check if an SSD is compatible with my MacBook Air?
A: Confirm your model number (A1465 or A1466) and EMC code (found on the bottom case). Cross-reference these with the SSD manufacturer’s compatibility list before buying.
Q: Is it difficult to install an SSD in a MacBook Air 2017?
A: Not if you have the right tools and follow a guide. Many SSDs now include screwdrivers and instructions. If you’re nervous, consider models that come with bootable USB drives for easier setup.
Ready to give your MacBook Air 2017 a new lease on life? Pick one of our top-rated SSDs above and enjoy faster performance, more storage, and peace of mind. Click any “Check Price” button to compare deals and start your upgrade today!