Hey guys! Thinking about giving your trusty 2017 non-Touch Bar MacBook Pro a speed boost? One of the best ways to do that is by upgrading its SSD (Solid State Drive). In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know about upgrading the SSD in your MacBook Pro, from why you should do it to how to actually get it done. Let's get started!

Why Upgrade Your SSD?

So, why should you even bother upgrading the SSD in your 2017 MacBook Pro? Here's the lowdown:

• Speed: This is the big one. A new SSD, especially if you're upgrading from the stock drive, can drastically improve your MacBook's performance. We're talking faster boot times, quicker app launches, and an overall snappier experience.
• Storage: Running out of space? Upgrading your SSD gives you more room for your files, photos, videos, and apps. Say goodbye to those annoying "disk full" messages!
• Lifespan: SSDs don't last forever. If your current SSD is getting old, upgrading can prevent potential data loss and keep your MacBook running smoothly for years to come.
• Resale Value: A MacBook Pro with a larger, faster SSD is more attractive to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell it.

The performance gains alone are often worth the upgrade. Imagine your MacBook booting up in seconds instead of minutes. Picture launching your favorite apps instantly. This is the reality with an SSD upgrade.

Let's dive deeper into why each of these points matters. When you bought your 2017 MacBook Pro, the storage options might have seemed sufficient. However, as time goes on, our digital lives expand. We accumulate more photos, videos, and large application files. Eventually, that once-spacious drive starts to feel cramped. Constantly managing storage, deleting files, or relying heavily on external drives becomes a hassle. Upgrading to a larger SSD alleviates this pain, providing ample space for your growing needs and making your MacBook Pro feel new again.

Furthermore, the speed difference is not just about convenience; it directly impacts your productivity. Waiting for applications to launch or files to open wastes valuable time. A faster SSD minimizes these delays, allowing you to work more efficiently and focus on the task at hand. For professionals who rely on their MacBooks for demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, or software development, an SSD upgrade is an investment that pays for itself in time saved and increased efficiency.

Finally, consider the longevity of your MacBook Pro. While SSDs are generally more reliable than traditional hard drives, they still have a limited lifespan. As they age, their performance can degrade, and the risk of failure increases. Replacing an aging SSD with a new one is a proactive measure that can extend the life of your MacBook Pro and prevent potential data loss. This is especially important if you rely on your MacBook for critical tasks or store irreplaceable data on it.

In summary, upgrading the SSD in your 2017 non-Touch Bar MacBook Pro is a worthwhile investment that can significantly improve its performance, storage capacity, and lifespan. It's a relatively simple upgrade that can breathe new life into your trusty machine and keep it running smoothly for years to come. Plus, with a faster and more spacious SSD, you'll enjoy a more responsive and enjoyable computing experience overall.

Choosing the Right SSD

Okay, you're sold on the idea of an SSD upgrade. The next step is picking the right SSD for your MacBook Pro. Here are a few things to consider:

• Compatibility: This is crucial. The 2017 non-Touch Bar MacBook Pro uses a standard NVMe PCIe SSD. Make sure the SSD you choose is compatible with this interface.
• Capacity: How much storage do you need? SSDs come in various sizes, from 256GB to 2TB or more. Consider your current storage usage and future needs.
• Speed: SSD speeds are measured in terms of read and write speeds (MB/s). Generally, faster is better, but there's also a price difference. Look for an SSD with decent read and write speeds for a good balance of performance and cost.
• Brand: Stick with reputable brands like Samsung, Crucial, Western Digital, or Sabrent. These brands are known for their quality and reliability.
• Price: SSD prices vary depending on the capacity and speed. Set a budget and find an SSD that fits your needs and budget.

When it comes to compatibility, double-checking is essential. While the 2017 non-Touch Bar MacBook Pro uses a standard NVMe PCIe SSD, it's always wise to verify the specific requirements in your MacBook's manual or through online resources. Some SSDs might have compatibility issues due to firmware or physical dimensions. Reading reviews from other users who have upgraded the same MacBook model can also provide valuable insights.

Regarding capacity, it's better to overestimate your storage needs than underestimate them. Consider not only your current storage usage but also how much data you anticipate accumulating in the future. Think about the types of files you typically store (photos, videos, documents, applications) and how frequently you create or download new content. If you're a creative professional working with large media files, opting for a larger SSD is a no-brainer. However, if you primarily use your MacBook for basic tasks like web browsing and document editing, a smaller capacity might suffice.

Speed is another important factor to consider. While all SSDs offer significantly faster performance compared to traditional hard drives, there are still differences in speeds between different SSD models. Look for SSDs with high sequential read and write speeds, as these speeds directly impact tasks like booting up your MacBook, launching applications, and transferring large files. However, keep in mind that the actual performance you experience may vary depending on other factors like your MacBook's hardware and operating system. Reading reviews and benchmarks can help you get a better understanding of the real-world performance of different SSDs.

Choosing a reputable brand is crucial for ensuring the quality and reliability of your SSD. Brands like Samsung, Crucial, Western Digital, and Sabrent have a long history of producing high-quality storage devices. These brands typically offer warranties and customer support, providing peace of mind in case of any issues. Avoid lesser-known or generic brands, as they may not have the same level of quality control or customer support.

Finally, price is always a consideration. SSD prices have come down significantly in recent years, but they still vary depending on the capacity, speed, and brand. Set a budget before you start shopping and try to find an SSD that offers the best balance of performance, capacity, and price. Keep in mind that it's often worth spending a bit more for a higher-quality SSD from a reputable brand, as this can ensure better performance and reliability in the long run.

Tools You'll Need

Before you start the upgrade, make sure you have the following tools:

• P5 Pentalobe Screwdriver: This is specifically for the screws on the bottom of your MacBook Pro.
• T5 Torx Screwdriver: You'll need this to remove the SSD.
• Spudger or Plastic Opening Tool: This helps to gently pry open the MacBook's case.
• Anti-Static Wrist Strap: Protect your MacBook from static electricity.
• External Enclosure (Optional): This is useful for backing up your data or cloning your old SSD to the new one.

Having the right tools is essential for a successful SSD upgrade. Using the wrong screwdriver can damage the screws on your MacBook Pro, making it difficult or impossible to remove them. The P5 Pentalobe screwdriver is specifically designed for the unique five-point screws used on the bottom of MacBooks. Using any other type of screwdriver can strip the screw heads and cause irreversible damage.

Similarly, the T5 Torx screwdriver is needed to remove the screw that secures the SSD in place. Again, using the wrong screwdriver can damage the screw and make it difficult to remove the SSD. Make sure you have both the P5 Pentalobe and T5 Torx screwdrivers before you start the upgrade.

A spudger or plastic opening tool is used to gently pry open the MacBook's case. These tools are made of soft plastic that won't scratch or damage the aluminum case. Avoid using metal tools, as they can easily scratch or dent the case.

An anti-static wrist strap is crucial for protecting your MacBook from static electricity. Static electricity can damage sensitive electronic components, so it's important to ground yourself before working on your MacBook. The anti-static wrist strap connects you to a grounded surface, preventing static electricity from building up and potentially damaging your MacBook.

Finally, an external enclosure is optional but highly recommended. It allows you to connect your old SSD to your MacBook via USB. This is useful for backing up your data or cloning your old SSD to the new one. Cloning your old SSD to the new one is the easiest way to transfer your operating system, applications, and files to the new SSD without having to reinstall everything from scratch.

Investing in these tools will make the SSD upgrade process much easier and safer. They are relatively inexpensive and can save you a lot of time and frustration in the long run. Plus, you'll have them on hand for any future repairs or upgrades you might want to do on your MacBook.

Step-by-Step Upgrade Guide

Alright, let's get down to business! Here's how to upgrade the SSD in your 2017 non-Touch Bar MacBook Pro:

1. Back Up Your Data: Before you do anything, back up all your important data. You can use Time Machine or a third-party backup solution.
2. Power Off Your MacBook: Shut down your MacBook completely.
3. Unscrew the Bottom Case: Use the P5 Pentalobe screwdriver to remove the screws on the bottom of the MacBook.
4. Open the Case: Gently pry open the case using the spudger or plastic opening tool. Start from the hinge side.
5. Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the battery connector to prevent any electrical damage. This is a crucial step!
6. Remove the Old SSD: Use the T5 Torx screwdriver to remove the screw holding the SSD in place. Gently slide the SSD out of the slot.
7. Install the New SSD: Slide the new SSD into the slot. Make sure it's fully seated.
8. Secure the SSD: Use the T5 Torx screwdriver to secure the SSD with the screw.
9. Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the battery connector.
10. Close the Case: Align the case and gently press it back into place.
11. Screw the Bottom Case Back On: Use the P5 Pentalobe screwdriver to reattach the screws on the bottom of the MacBook.
12. Test Your MacBook: Power on your MacBook and make sure everything is working properly.

Before starting, ensure you have a reliable backup of all your important data. Data loss during an SSD upgrade can be devastating, so backing up your data is a crucial step. You can use Time Machine, Apple's built-in backup utility, or a third-party backup solution like Carbon Copy Cloner or SuperDuper! Choose the backup method that you're most comfortable with and make sure the backup is complete and verified before proceeding.

When disconnecting the battery, be extremely careful not to damage the battery connector or any of the surrounding components. Use a plastic opening tool to gently pry the connector upwards. Avoid using metal tools, as they can easily short circuit the battery and cause damage. If you're not comfortable disconnecting the battery yourself, consider taking your MacBook to a professional for the upgrade.

When removing the old SSD, be gentle and avoid applying excessive force. The SSD is held in place by a small screw and a connector. Once you remove the screw, gently slide the SSD out of the slot. If the SSD is stuck, double-check that you've removed the screw completely and that there are no other obstructions.

When installing the new SSD, make sure it's fully seated in the slot. The SSD should slide in easily and click into place. If you encounter any resistance, double-check that the SSD is properly aligned and that there are no obstructions. Forcing the SSD into the slot can damage the connector and prevent the SSD from working properly.

After completing the upgrade, test your MacBook thoroughly to make sure everything is working properly. Boot up your MacBook and check that the new SSD is recognized and that you can access your files and applications. Run some benchmark tests to verify that the new SSD is performing as expected. If you encounter any issues, double-check that the SSD is properly installed and that all the connections are secure.

Upgrading the SSD in your 2017 non-Touch Bar MacBook Pro is a relatively straightforward process, but it's important to follow these steps carefully to avoid damaging your MacBook. If you're not comfortable performing the upgrade yourself, consider taking your MacBook to a professional for assistance.

Troubleshooting

Encountering issues? Here are a few common problems and how to fix them:

• MacBook Won't Turn On: Double-check the battery connection. Make sure it's securely connected.
• SSD Not Recognized: Make sure the SSD is properly seated in the slot. Also, check the SSD's compatibility with your MacBook.
• Slow Performance: Ensure you've installed the correct drivers for the SSD. Also, check if TRIM is enabled (it should be by default on macOS).
• Overheating: This could be due to a faulty SSD or poor airflow. Make sure the SSD is properly installed and that the MacBook's cooling system is working correctly.

If your MacBook won't turn on after the SSD upgrade, the first thing to check is the battery connection. Make sure the battery connector is securely connected to the logic board. Sometimes, the connector can become loose during the upgrade process. Use a plastic opening tool to gently push the connector back into place. If the MacBook still won't turn on, try disconnecting and reconnecting the battery connector again.

If the SSD is not recognized by your MacBook, there are a few potential causes. First, make sure the SSD is properly seated in the slot. Remove the SSD and reinsert it, making sure it clicks into place. Second, check the SSD's compatibility with your MacBook. Some SSDs may not be compatible with certain MacBook models. Refer to the SSD's specifications or the manufacturer's website to verify compatibility. Finally, check if the SSD is properly formatted. If the SSD is brand new, it may need to be formatted before it can be used. You can use Disk Utility to format the SSD.

If you're experiencing slow performance after the SSD upgrade, there are a few things you can try. First, ensure you've installed the correct drivers for the SSD. While macOS typically installs the necessary drivers automatically, it's always a good idea to check for driver updates. You can usually find the latest drivers on the SSD manufacturer's website. Second, check if TRIM is enabled. TRIM is a feature that helps maintain the performance of SSDs over time. It should be enabled by default on macOS, but it's worth checking to make sure. You can check the status of TRIM in System Information.

If your MacBook is overheating after the SSD upgrade, there are a few potential causes. First, make sure the SSD is properly installed and that it's not making contact with any other components. Second, check if the MacBook's cooling system is working correctly. Make sure the fans are spinning and that there are no obstructions blocking the airflow. Finally, consider replacing the thermal paste on the CPU and GPU. Over time, the thermal paste can dry out and lose its effectiveness, leading to overheating. Applying new thermal paste can help improve the cooling performance of your MacBook.

Conclusion

Upgrading the SSD in your 2017 non-Touch Bar MacBook Pro is a fantastic way to breathe new life into your machine. It's a relatively simple upgrade that can significantly improve performance and storage capacity. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can easily do it yourself. Enjoy your faster, more spacious MacBook Pro! Cheers!