Upgrading 2013-2015 Macbook Pro SSD to M.2 NVMe

[phybersplice]

QLC SN550 nvme drive best bang for your buck, TLC Sabrent rocket and Hynix gold P31 best balance performance and lower power consumption.

The Hynix is like $260 plus tax here. There's three Sabrent Rockets available in the price point.

SABRENT Rocket Q 1TB NVMe PCIe M.2 2280 Internal SSD High Performance Solid State Drive R/W 3200/2000MB/s (SB-RKTQ-1TB)

The 1TB ROCKET Q NVMe PCIe M.2 2280 Internal SSD High-Performance Solid State Drive (SB-RKTQ-1TB) delivers all the advantages of flash disk technology with PCIe Gen3 x4 interface and it is fully compliant with the standard Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), commonly-known as M.2. Based on ...

www.amazon.ca

This one is a QLC based SSD.

and

Sabrent 1TB Rocket NVMe PCIe M.2 2280 Internal SSD High Performance Solid State Drive (SB-ROCKET-1TB)

The Sabrent 1TB ROCKET NVMe PCIe M.2 2280 Internal SSD High Performance Solid State Drive (SB-ROCKET-1TB) delivers all the advantages of flash disk technology with PCIe Gen3 x4 interface and it is fully compliant with the standard Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), commonly known as M.2. Based...

www.amazon.ca

and

SABRENT 1TB Rocket Q4 NVMe PCIe 4.0 M.2 2280 Internal SSD Maximum Performance Solid State Drive R/W 4700/1800 MB/s (SB-RKTQ4-1TB)

The sabrent 1tb rocket q4 nvme pcie 4. 0 M. 2 2280 Internal ssd delivers all the advantages of flash disk technology with pcie gen4. 0 X4 interface. Based on qlc nand flash memory, its performance speeds can reach up to 4700 mb/s (read) and 1800 mb/s (write) when using a pcie gen4 motherboard. Us...

www.amazon.ca

 

[cyberstudio]

I keep on hearing people say the "new" SN550 is QLC. This is highly unlikely as QLC has a much lower endurance than what the SN550 is spec'ed for (600 TBW @ 1TB). In terms of worst-case write speed after the SLC runs out, which is where all the notoriety comes from, SN550 is faster than every QLC drive, usually by a wide margin, with the sole exception of Intel 670p, both of which are just a tiny slower than many popular TLC drives. (Like... 390 vs 500 MB/s).

I am inclined to believe SN550 just switched to some slower TLC. QLC got a bad name because of lower endurance and slower speed. If both are TLC-like who cares what the underlying technology is? If WD had made a major breakthrough and made QLC perform at TLC-level wouldn't they have made a big announcement about the achievement?

People noted the speed similarity to SN350, but look at the endurance and you will see a big difference.

 

[nicopulse]

Hello, I have a MacBook Pro 15 mid-2014 (MacBookPro11,3) running macOS Mojave (10.14.6) on APFS Volume.
System Reports ROM version is 431.140.6.0.0

==> Seems it's the last ROM version , but is it really ?

==> Do you know if I stay on macOS Mojave (10.14.6) and I replace original SSD by a M.2 NVMe SSD with adaptator, I can have hibernation/sleep problem and bad energy consumption problem ?

==> The question could be: does Apple fix all M.2 NVMe problems with the OS update (Big Sur) ? ROM update (431.140.6.0.0) ? or both ?

 

[macpro_mid2014]

Hello, I have a MacBook Pro 15 mid-2014 (MacBookPro11,3) running macOS Mojave (10.14.6) on APFS Volume.
System Reports ROM version is 431.140.6.0.0

==> Seems it's the last ROM version , but is it really ?

==> Do you know if I stay on macOS Mojave (10.14.6) and I replace original SSD by a M.2 NVMe SSD with adaptator, I can have hibernation/sleep problem and bad energy consumption problem ?

==> The question could be: does Apple fix all M.2 NVMe problems with the OS update (Big Sur) ? ROM update (431.140.6.0.0) ? or both ?

The BootRom on my MBP is also 431.140.6.0.0 running Big Sur 11.6. The hibernation issue was related to the BootRom version, not the macOS version. I don't have hibernation issues for a long time (it feels like a long time to me).

 

[dw2116]

OK. I ran into a roadblock. I've got everything ready: macOS updated to Big Sur, Sintech short adapter directly from Sintech (http://eshop.sintech.cn/ngff-m2-pcie-ssd-card-as-2013-2014-2015-macbook-ssd-p-1139.html), SK hynix P31 Gold from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08DK2FB7G), bootable USB installer for Big Sur, USB Windows To Go.

I disconnected the battery, removed the Apple OEM SSD, plugged in P31 with the Sintech adapter, reconnected the battery, and, alas, the new disk couldn't be found by either Windows To Go or the macOS USB installer. In fact, the macOS installer couldn't even boot presumably because it failed to find any disk. I tried a few times but to no avail.

Now I don't know how to proceed from here. I suspect the short Sintech adapter might be faulty and also wonder if the long adapter might work better since it apparently provides some support beneath the SSD. Perhaps someone here can help confirm SK hynix P31 Gold is compatible with either short or long Sintech adapter, on MBA 6,2.

Any thoughts? Thanks!

 

[macpro_mid2014]

OK. I ran into a roadblock. I've got everything ready: macOS updated to Big Sur, Sintech short adapter directly from Sintech (http://eshop.sintech.cn/ngff-m2-pcie-ssd-card-as-2013-2014-2015-macbook-ssd-p-1139.html), SK hynix P31 Gold from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08DK2FB7G), bootable USB installer for Big Sur, USB Windows To Go.

I disconnected the battery, removed the Apple OEM SSD, plugged in P31 with the Sintech adapter, reconnected the battery, and, alas, the new disk couldn't be found by either Windows To Go or the macOS USB installer. In fact, the macOS installer couldn't even boot presumably because it failed to find any disk. I tried a few times but to no avail.

Now I don't know how to proceed from here. I suspect the short Sintech adapter might be faulty and also wonder if the long adapter might work better since it apparently provides some support beneath the SSD. Perhaps someone here can help confirm SK hynix P31 Gold is compatible with either short or long Sintech adapter, on MBA 6,2.

Any thoughts? Thanks!

Check that you have the latest BootRom installed (SilentKnight 1.16 (Universal App for El Capitan, Sierra, High Sierra, Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur and Monterey)) for your computer.

The adapters are passive devices, either one should work with the SK. Make sure the disk doesn't show as Disk1 (or whatever).

Sometimes you have to scroll down to be able to see the other disks listed.

My other suggestion is that:
1- you create a Windows Boot Installation media (USB) using BootCamp or something else
2- remove the Apple SSD and insert the SK
3- Boot with the Option and select the Windows Installation media
4- the SK should be listed as an option for Windows installation

Read post #9203

 

[phybersplice]

There's a ton of info in this thread - so much that I've gone through 200+ pages worth.

I'm still super confused as to what SSD to purchase.

I'm running Big Sur with the Bootloader 431.140.6.0.0.
I've had good luck with Samsung 2.5" SSDs in the past, so I was thinking of using a Samsung drive, yes, I know power budget isn't going to be great on the 2013 Macbook pro 11,1 as well as the limited speed (about 1300).
All these are 1TB.

Samsung 970 EVO Plus took a price drop on Amazon.ca for 189.99

Samsung 970 EVO Plus 1TB NVMe M.2 Internal SSD (MZ-V7S1T0/AM) [Canada Version]

For intensive workloads on PCs and workstations, the Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus delivers ultimate performance powered by Samsung's NVMe SSD leadership. The ultimate in performance, the 970 EVO Plus is upgraded to be faster than the 970 EVO. It maximizes the potential of NVMe bandwidth for unbeatabl...

www.amazon.ca

I'm seeing some hit and miss comments on the SB-ROCKET-1TB. I'm also concerned about reliability - I don't have the time to fart around trying to get something to work or worst case, have something die on me. Been reading about the lack of support that Sabrent is offering.
I need it to work.

The WD550 also is low(er) end but price is attractive. I know I am comparing apples to oranges with that one.
I do like the fact that Samsung release firmware from time to time and they're on bootable ISOs which makes life easier.

I will be doing mostly surfing, email, final cut (on occasion but that might turn out to be more time).

I'm in Canada - so what do you all suggest at this point?
My SINTECH short adapter is supposed to arrive tomorrow.

EDIT: In the end, I ordered the SB-ROCKET-1TB ($179.97) - but cancelled the order. I went with the Samsung 970 Evo instead.

 

[vince22]

OK. I ran into a roadblock. I've got everything ready: macOS updated to Big Sur, Sintech short adapter directly from Sintech (http://eshop.sintech.cn/ngff-m2-pcie-ssd-card-as-2013-2014-2015-macbook-ssd-p-1139.html), SK hynix P31 Gold from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08DK2FB7G), bootable USB installer for Big Sur, USB Windows To Go.

I disconnected the battery, removed the Apple OEM SSD, plugged in P31 with the Sintech adapter, reconnected the battery, and, alas, the new disk couldn't be found by either Windows To Go or the macOS USB installer. In fact, the macOS installer couldn't even boot presumably because it failed to find any disk. I tried a few times but to no avail.

Now I don't know how to proceed from here. I suspect the short Sintech adapter might be faulty and also wonder if the long adapter might work better since it apparently provides some support beneath the SSD. Perhaps someone here can help confirm SK hynix P31 Gold is compatible with either short or long Sintech adapter, on MBA 6,2.

Any thoughts? Thanks!

follow this thread, how to flash your Hy

OK. I ran into a roadblock. I've got everything ready: macOS updated to Big Sur, Sintech short adapter directly from Sintech (http://eshop.sintech.cn/ngff-m2-pcie-ssd-card-as-2013-2014-2015-macbook-ssd-p-1139.html), SK hynix P31 Gold from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08DK2FB7G), bootable USB installer for Big Sur, USB Windows To Go.

I disconnected the battery, removed the Apple OEM SSD, plugged in P31 with the Sintech adapter, reconnected the battery, and, alas, the new disk couldn't be found by either Windows To Go or the macOS USB installer. In fact, the macOS installer couldn't even boot presumably because it failed to find any disk. I tried a few times but to no avail.

Now I don't know how to proceed from here. I suspect the short Sintech adapter might be faulty and also wonder if the long adapter might work better since it apparently provides some support beneath the SSD. Perhaps someone here can help confirm SK hynix P31 Gold is compatible with either short or long Sintech adapter, on MBA 6,2.

Any thoughts? Thanks!

check your Hynix P31 firmware ver, my Hynix P31 gold updated firmware (41062C20) check photo below, follow this thread how update firmware, see post #9,254, good luck.

Upgrading 2013/2014 Macbook Pro SSD to M.2 NVMe

Hi All, A quick "heads up" WD Blue SN550 SSD Performance Reportedly Cut In Half When SLC Runs Out :eek::eek::eek:

forums.macrumors.com

 

[ftaok]

OK. I ran into a roadblock. I've got everything ready: macOS updated to Big Sur, Sintech short adapter directly from Sintech (http://eshop.sintech.cn/ngff-m2-pcie-ssd-card-as-2013-2014-2015-macbook-ssd-p-1139.html), SK hynix P31 Gold from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08DK2FB7G), bootable USB installer for Big Sur, USB Windows To Go.

I disconnected the battery, removed the Apple OEM SSD, plugged in P31 with the Sintech adapter, reconnected the battery, and, alas, the new disk couldn't be found by either Windows To Go or the macOS USB installer. In fact, the macOS installer couldn't even boot presumably because it failed to find any disk. I tried a few times but to no avail.

Now I don't know how to proceed from here. I suspect the short Sintech adapter might be faulty and also wonder if the long adapter might work better since it apparently provides some support beneath the SSD. Perhaps someone here can help confirm SK hynix P31 Gold is compatible with either short or long Sintech adapter, on MBA 6,2.

Any thoughts? Thanks!

I think you skipped a step. When you use the USB Install macOS thumbdrive, you have to format your new SSD before the installer will see it. So once you boot from the USB drive, quit the Install macOS app and open Disk Utility. Format your SSD, when that's done, quit Disk Utility and re-open Install macOS.

You should see your new SSD available for installing macOS onto.

 

[danielPro]

Hi everyone,
I try to format back my Samsung 980 back to Windows format to install it in my new Windows machine. I have bought SN 550 to use in my Macbook after the swap (It is the only option in my area, and yes, it was the newer version.) Is there any way for the process to work? I don't have any thunderbolt or NVME adapter here, I only have the windows machine (with that SN550) and my Macbook (with Samsung 980.) I also kept the original Apple SSD if needed. Thank guys.

 

[Audit13]

Hi everyone,
I try to format back my Samsung 980 back to Windows format to install it in my new Windows machine. I have bought SN 550 to use in my Macbook after the swap (It is the only option in my area, and yes, it was the newer version.) Is there any way for the process to work? I don't have any thunderbolt or NVME adapter here, I only have the windows machine (with that SN550) and my Macbook (with Samsung 980.) I also kept the original Apple SSD if needed. Thank guys.

If you want to format the 980 in your Windows computer, boot with a Windows 10 USB installer, load up a command prompt and use diskpart to clear all partitions.

 

[pauldc79]

Does replacing the original SDD with an apple OEM one (at the moment mine has a Sandisk 128gb) cause any of there's bootrom issues it will it just work as normal?

 

[phybersplice]

Well here’s what’s installed.
Sintech short (from Amazon store)
Samsung 970 EVO Plus

Currently doing a Bug Sur reinstall via USB Bootable and then will do Migration Assistant.
Will report back on any issues I experience and benchmarks.

Tried to do a firmware upgrade on it, and it came with 3B2QEXM7.
The original drive came with 2B2QEXM7.
Guess what? Samsung has also made changes to the 970 Evo Plus lineup.
https://www.aroged.com/2021/08/26/s...-changes-controller-but-doesnt-get-any-worse/
Seems like all SSD manufacturers are changing things up.

My data is all migrated over and it's running fine on the 11,1 2013 Late MBP.
Calling it quits for tonight and will do a Bootcamp partition tomorrow.

 

[nicopulse]

Can someone who still uses Mojave with an M2 disk confirm that everything is working fine (with the last bootroom on Marcbbok pro)?

 

[nicopulse]

Can someone who still uses Mojave with an M2 disk confirm that everything is working fine (with the last bootroom on Marcbbok pro) ?

 

[olfo]

Yes Mojave is running fine here on the MacBookPro11,3 with the Crucial P2.
In case you are unsure which MacOS works best for you, you can install as many as you like:

Use more than one version of macOS on Mac - Apple Support (CA)

If you install a compatible macOS on an additional internal or external storage volume, your Mac can start up from either volume.

support.apple.com

 

[nicopulse]

Oui, Mojave fonctionne bien ici sur le MacBookPro11,3 avec le Crucial P2.
Si vous ne savez pas quel MacOS vous convient le mieux, vous pouvez en installer autant que vous le souhaitez :

Use more than one version of macOS on Mac - Apple Support (CA)

If you install a compatible macOS on an additional internal or external storage volume, your Mac can start up from either volume.

support.apple.com

Thanks you. If Big Sur don't enable anythings about M.2 NVMe supports. If everythings about M.2 NVMe supports are inside the BOOT ROM, so I stay in Mojave....

 

[phybersplice]

Hi everyone,

Here's an update and an issue I'm having.

The battery is getting sucked dry by the Samsung Evo 970 Plus.
I've been on battery power for about 1.5 hrs and I'm down from 100% down to 77%.
iStat reports that the drive consumes .50A at idle.
Not a great result.

However the bigger issue here is Bootcamp.
I've been using VMWare for ages.
With my new capacity, I was able to create a 60GB partition using Bootcamp, and was able to download the Windows 10 installer from Microsoft, build the USB Bootable using the Bootcamp assistant. During install, Windows cannot find the drive (Samsung) to install to. Seems that it's missing drivers which is strange.
Has anyone come across this issue and how was it solved?
Thanks.

 

[Audit13]

Hi everyone,

Here's an update and an issue I'm having.

The battery is getting sucked dry by the Samsung Evo 970 Plus.
I've been on battery power for about 1.5 hrs and I'm down from 100% down to 77%.
iStat reports that the drive consumes .50A at idle.
Not a great result.

Bad battery life is a known issue with the 970 for some users.

 

[phybersplice]

Bad battery life is a known issue with the 970 for some users.

Yep. It's pretty bad. The fact that Windows 10 can't seem to detect the drive to be able to install it is problematic. Any ideas on that?

 

[luryxyt]

Hello

I swapped the original drive for the WD sn530 512gb in my 2017 macbook pro.

Old disk: original
My ssd adapter: NFHK N-1708A
New disk: WD SN530 512gb


When it lies long in hibernation, then once every 2-3 days the error "Your computer restared because of a porblem on mac"
Do you know any advice that will help you solve this problem?

 

[Audit13]

Yep. It's pretty bad. The fact that Windows 10 can't seem to detect the drive to be able to install it is problematic. Any ideas on that?

If you boot with the Win10 installer, select the advanced option. Does it see any useable partitions or no drive at all?

You're using the latest Win10 release on the USB installer?

 

[luryxyt]

Does anybody use WD SN530? Have you any problems with this SSD drive? What is your battery drain?

 

[phybersplice]

If you boot with the Win10 installer, select the advanced option. Does it see any useable partitions or no drive at all?

You're using the latest Win10 release on the USB installer?

I'm using the most recent installer (Win10_21H1_English_x64.iso). I don't seem to recall an advanced install method like in the older versions.

I've also moved the Sintech and the drive into an early 2015 12,1 MBP and want to see if the problem follows the drive or the machine.

I won't be able to play with this more until the kids to go to sleep in a couple hours (ahhh quiet time).

 

[macpro_mid2014]

Thanks you. If Big Sur don't enable anythings about M.2 NVMe supports. If everythings about M.2 NVMe supports are inside the BOOT ROM, so I stay in Mojave....

The only thing Mojave is about to lose is the security updates.