Upgrading an SSD on a MacBook: On which models is it possible?

SSD hard drives only have a limited lifespan and have to be replaced after a few years. This is due to the special way the storage medium works. On MacBooks, replacement is only possible on certain models, for example older MacBook Pro models and the MacBook Air.

Can you upgrade the SSD on MacBook?

Upgrading MacBooks always turns out to be a bit difficult, since a change of the hardware is not actually intended. However, on older MacBooks, it is possible to upgrade the SSD hard drive and replace it with a newer and larger model. However, this is no longer feasible for newer MacBooks, since the SSD has been installed in a unique way here. If your MacBook is suitable for SSD replacement, you still need to find a hard drive with the right size and ports. Fortunately, manufacturers have adapted to the special situation of Apple users and offer hard drives that are specially designed for individual MacBook models. So if you search the web for an SSD for your model, you will get a hard drive with the right ports in any case.

Special features of the individual models

1. MacBook Pro from 2016: The SSD hard drive is permanently connected to the motherboard and therefore cannot be replaced.
2. MacBook Pro older than 2016: In these models, you can open the case and replace the SSD hard drive.
3. MacBook 12 inch from 2015: Also in this model, the SSD and mainboard are soldered together and the SSD can no longer be upgraded.
4. MacBook Air: The SSD can be upgraded in all models.