Best Internal SSD for Mac of 2026

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2026

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Internal SSDs for Mac are a popular choice for those looking to upgrade their computer's storage and speed. These Solid State Drives offer faster boot times, quicker application launches, and improved overall performance compared to traditional hard drives. They are also more durable and reliable, with no moving parts that can break or fail. Internal SSDs come in various storage capacities, ranging from 128GB to 4TB, and can be easily installed in a Mac computer. Some popular brands include Samsung, Crucial, and SanDisk. Upgrading to an Internal SSD can breathe new life into an older Mac and provide a noticeable improvement in performance.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 Gaming SSD Cover #TOP 1
WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 Gaming SSD
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Crucial P310 500GB NVMe SSD Cover #TOP 2
Crucial P310 500GB NVMe SSD
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA Internal SSD Cover #TOP 3
Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA Internal SSD
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Internal SSD for Mac

#TOP 1

WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 Gaming SSD

WDS200T4X0E
Black
WD_BLACK 2TB SN7100 Gaming SSD Cover
WD_Black SN7100 2TB NVMe SSD - Gen4 PCIe, M.2 2280, Up to 7,250 MB/s Read Speed, Up to 6,900 MB/s Write Speed, Next Gen TLC 3D NAND, for Laptops, Handheld Gaming Devices - WDS200T4X0E

The WD_BLACK Gaming SSD offers lightning-fast speeds, reaching up to 7,250MB/s for reading and 6,900MB/s for writing. This means you can load games and applications almost instantly, enhancing your gaming experience. Designed specifically for serious gamers, it utilizes a PCIe Gen4 interface and advanced TLC 3D NAND technology, providing improved performance by up to 35% compared to older models. With a generous storage capacity of up to 2TB, you can store all your favorite games without worrying about space. Additionally, this SSD is optimized for laptops and handheld devices, delivering double the power efficiency of its predecessors.

What We Like
Blazing fast read/write speeds
Exceptional power efficiency
Easy installation
Runs cool under load
High storage capacity
What We Don't Like
Software compatibility minor issue
Cloning software not included

Crucial P310 500GB NVMe SSD

CT500P310SSD801
Black
500GB
Crucial P310 500GB NVMe SSD Cover
Crucial P310 500GB SSD, PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 2280, Up to 6,600MB/s, for Laptop, Desktop (PC), & Handheld Gaming Consoles, Includes Acronis Data Recovery Software, Solid State Drive - CT500P310SSD801

The Crucial P310 SSD delivers impressive performance with speeds reaching up to 6,600MB/s, allowing you to experience quicker boot times, faster file transfers, and smoother game loading. You will appreciate the enhanced efficiency, as it boosts your productivity in applications like Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Excel by nearly 20%. Additionally, this SSD extends your device's storage capacity, ensuring you can keep more important files. With up to 40% better performance-to-power ratio, you can achieve more tasks without draining your battery quickly, making it an excellent choice for both work and play.

What We Like
High-speed PCIe Gen4 performance
Easy installation process
Large storage capacity options
Reliable brand reputation
Great value for money
What We Don't Like
Limited by motherboard PCIe version
Occasional stock fluctuation/pricing concerns

Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA Internal SSD

CT1000BX500SSD1
Black
Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA Internal SSD Cover
Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA 2.5-Inch Internal SSD, up to 540MB/s - CT1000BX500SSD1, Solid State Drive

Upgrade to the Crucial BX500 1TB 3D NAND SATA Internal SSD for a faster boot up, quicker file loading, and improved overall system responsiveness. This internal SSD is 300% faster than a typical hard drive and 45x more energy efficient, which also improves battery life. With Micron 3D NAND technology, it advances the world's memory and storage for 40 years.

What We Like
Fast load times
Easy installation
Reliable performance
Good value for money
Runs cool and quiet
What We Don't Like
Cloning software issues
No DRAM cache
#TOP 4

SAMSUNG 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB

MZ-V9S2T0B/AM
Black
2 TB
SAMSUNG 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB Cover
Samsung 990 EVO Plus SSD 2TB, PCIe Gen 4x4, Gen 5x2 M.2 2280, Speeds Up-to 7,250 MB/s, Upgrade Storage for PC/Laptops, HMB Technology and Intelligent Turbowrite 2.0, (MZ-V9S2T0B/AM)

The SAMSUNG 990 EVO Plus offers cutting-edge speed and capacity for your computing needs. With impressive read speeds reaching up to 7,250 MB/s, transferring large files becomes a breeze, allowing you to finish tasks quickly. Its 2TB storage ensures you have ample space for your important data. The drive is designed with advanced thermal management, helping to keep it cool during intense usage, which maintains performance and battery life. Additionally, it supports the latest PCIe technology, providing you with enhanced bandwidth and processing power for a smoother experience.

What We Like
Fast performance
Easy installation
Large storage capacity
Reliable and stable
Good value
What We Don't Like
Requires compatible motherboard for max speed
Longevity lower than pro models
#TOP 5

WD_BLACK SN850X Gaming SSD

WDS200T2X0E
Black
WD_BLACK SN850X Gaming SSD Cover
WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD - M.2 2280, Up to 7,300 MB/s Read speeds, Up to 6,300 MB/s write speeds, Gaming Expansion, High Performance Internal Solid State Drive - WDS200T2X0E

The WD_BLACK Gaming SSD offers insane speeds of up to 7,300 MB/s, giving you a significant edge in gaming performance with super-fast load times. With capacities ranging from 1TB to 4TB, you can store multiple large games without worry. The WD_BLACK Dashboard allows you to monitor your drive's health, control RGB settings, and activate Game Mode 2.0 automatically. Additionally, features like Predictive Loading and Adaptive Thermal Management enhance your gaming experience, optimizing performance and reliability.

What We Like
Blazing fast Gen4 speeds
Excellent reliability and stability
Easy installation and setup
High capacity options
Great for gaming and multitasking
What We Don't Like
Can run warm without heatsink
Premium price
#TOP 6

Crucial T710 PCIe Gen5 1TB SSD

CT1000T710SSD8-01
Black
Crucial T710 PCIe Gen5 1TB SSD Cover
Crucial T710 PCIe Gen5 NVMe 1TB SSD, Up to 14,900 MB/s, Laptop & Desktop Compatible (PC), for Creatives and Hardcore Gamers, Solid State Drive, Includes 1Mo Adobe CC – CT1000T710SSD8-01

The Crucial T710 Gen5 SSD offers blazing-fast performance thanks to its PCIe 5.0 interface, letting you enjoy quick game load times, fast bootups, and smooth multitasking. With a generous 1TB capacity, you have plenty of space to store large AAA games, 8K videos, and creative files without slowing down. This SSD is designed to perfectly fit Intel 13th/14th Gen and AMD Ryzen 7000 systems with its M.2 2280 Gen5 slot compatibility, ensuring seamless integration. Plus, its heatsink-friendly design means you can keep the drive cool during intense gaming or heavy workloads, maintaining top performance when you need it most.

What We Like
Blazing fast read/write speeds
High reliability and stability
Easy installation process
Effective with good heatsink
Great for gaming and OS
What We Don't Like
High temperatures under load
Stock heatsink may be inadequate
#TOP 7

SanDisk WD_Black SN8100 2TB PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD

WDS200T1X0M
Black
SanDisk WD_Black SN8100 2TB PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD Cover
WD_Black SN8100 2TB NVMe SSD - PCIe 5.0x4, M.2 2280, Up to 14,900MB/s Read Speed, up to 11,000MB/s Write Speed, Best for AI Applications, Gaming, and Video Editing - WDS200T1X0M

The SanDisk WD_Black PCIe 5 SSD offers a major boost in speed and efficiency for gamers and content creators. With PCIe Gen 5 technology, you get faster data transfer that makes loading games and editing videos smoother than ever. Its incredible read speeds up to 14,900MB/s and write speeds up to 14,000MB/s help you handle large files quickly, saving you time. Plus, it uses power more efficiently, meaning your system stays cooler and uses less energy without sacrificing performance. This SSD is a great choice if you want both speed and reliability in your PC storage.

What We Like
Blazing fast read/write speeds
Excellent heat management
Easy installation process
Future-proof PCIe Gen 5 support
Reliable performance for gaming
What We Don't Like
High price point
Requires PCIe Gen 5 motherboard
#TOP 8

Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD

SNV3S/1000G
blue
Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD Cover
Kingston NV3 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD | PCIe 4.0 Gen 4x4 | Up to 6000 MB/s | SNV3S/1000G

Features
Gen 4x4 NVMe PCle Performance
Ideal For High Speed, Low Power Storage
Capacities Up To 4TB

SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive

MZ-77E1T0B/AM
Black
SAMSUNG 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive Cover
Samsung 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive, Upgrade PC or Laptop Memory and Storage for IT Pros, Creators, Everyday Users, MZ-77E1T0B/AM

The Samsung 870 EVO SATA III SSD 1TB 2.5” Internal Solid State Drive is the latest 870 EVO from Samsung, offering indisputable performance, reliability, and compatibility. It offers up to 560/530 MB/s sequential speeds, up to 600 TBW, and is compatible with major host systems and applications. It also comes with Samsung Magician 6 software to help manage the drive and keep it up to date. All components, including Samsung's DRAM and NAND, are produced in-house.

What We Like
Lightning-fast speeds
Exceptional storage capacity
Reliable and durable
Easy installation and migration
5-year limited warranty
What We Don't Like
Higher cost
Cloning process takes time

Crucial P510 PCIe Gen5 1TB SSD

CT1000P510SSD8-01
Black
Crucial P510 PCIe Gen5 1TB SSD Cover
Crucial P510 PCIe Gen5 NVMe 1TB SSD, Up to 11,000MB/s, TLC NAND, Laptop & Desktop (PC) Compatible, for Gamers & Creatives, Solid State Drive – CT1000P510SSD8-01

The Crucial P510 Gen5 SSD offers blazing fast speeds with its PCIe 5.0 interface, letting you load games, start up your system, and multitask more quickly and smoothly. Its large 1TB storage gives you plenty of room to save AAA games, apps, and media files without worrying about space. This SSD also works great with both desktops and laptops, and it’s compatible with older Gen4 systems, so upgrading your device is hassle-free. Plus, it balances top-tier Gen5 performance with an affordable price, making it a smart choice if you want excellent speed without overspending.

What We Like
Blazing fast load times
Seamless Windows boot
Backwards compatibility
Great value for money
Easy installation process
What We Don't Like
Price fluctuations
Occasional listing confusion
Buying Guide Image

The Ultimate Internal SSD for Mac Buying Guide

Introduction

As a Mac user, you know the importance of having a fast and efficient computer. One way to improve the speed of your Mac is by upgrading to an internal Solid State Drive (SSD). However, with so many options on the market, it can be daunting to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we will go over some key considerations when selecting an internal SSD for your Mac.

Size and Capacity

The first thing to consider is the size and capacity of the SSD. Most Macs come with either a 2.5-inch or a 1.8-inch hard drive, so make sure to check which size is compatible with your computer. In terms of capacity, it’s important to choose an SSD that has enough space for all of your files and programs. If you are a heavy user with a lot of large files, you may want to opt for a larger capacity SSD. On the other hand, if you only use your Mac for basic tasks and have a smaller amount of files, a smaller capacity SSD may be sufficient.

Speed

Another important factor is the speed of the SSD. The faster the speed, the quicker your Mac will be able to access and transfer files. Look for an SSD with a high read and write speed, as this will significantly improve the overall performance of your Mac.

Compatibility

It’s crucial to make sure the SSD you choose is compatible with your Mac. Some SSDs may not be compatible with certain Mac models, so it’s important to do your research and choose a drive that is specifically designed for your Mac.

Price

Of course, price is also a factor when choosing an internal SSD for your Mac. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Higher quality SSDs may come with a higher price tag, but they will likely have better performance and a longer lifespan. It’s important to find a balance between price and quality to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.

Brand

When it comes to internal SSDs, there are several reputable brands to choose from. Some popular options include Samsung, SanDisk, and Western Digital. It’s always a good idea to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure you are getting a reliable and high-quality product.

Conclusion

Choosing the right internal SSD for your Mac can greatly improve the speed and efficiency of your computer. Consider factors such as size and capacity, speed, compatibility, price, and brand to find the best option for your needs. By taking the time to do your research and make an informed decision, you can upgrade your Mac and enjoy a faster and more seamless user experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you add internal SSD to MacBook?

In general, the internal SSD of a MacBook cannot be upgraded after it is manufactured. If you need more storage space, returning the MacBook within the return policy and purchasing a MacBook Pro with a larger SSD would be an option.

2. Is SSD compatible with Mac?

Yes, SSDs are compatible with Mac. The latest SSDs can offer up to 8TB of storage, making them suitable for use with a desktop Mac as well. They can be connected to your Mac via a USB port, reducing cable clutter.

3. Is a 512GB SSD enough?

A 512GB SSD is generally sufficient for most laptop activities. It can hold over 60,000 photos, around 1,200 videos, and approximately 400 applications, providing ample space for most laptop users.

4. Will an external SSD make my MacBook Pro faster?

Yes, using an external SSD as a startup disk can improve the performance of your MacBook Pro. It enhances system responsiveness, app loading times, startup speed, and overall system performance.

5. Will an SSD improve Mac performance?

Yes, SSDs offer significant performance improvements over traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). They have faster data access speeds, with typical SSDs being about 100 times faster than HDDs. This speed boost enhances overall Mac performance.

6. How do I get my Mac to recognize my SSD?

If your Mac does not recognize an external SSD, you can try a few troubleshooting steps. First, ensure that the SSD is properly inserted. Restarting your Mac, using Disk Utility to check the SSD, using First Aid to fix any issues, and repairing the SSD with Terminal are additional steps you can take to resolve the recognition problem.

Editor's Notes

During our internal ssd for mac research, we found 24 internal ssd for mac products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 895,504 customer reviews through our big data system to write the internal ssd for mac list. We found that most customers choose internal ssd for mac with an average price of $213.03.

The internal ssd for mac are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of internal ssd for mac, including WD_BLACK, Crucial, Samsung, Sandisk, Kingston. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

Internal SSD for Mac Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand WD_BLACK Crucial Crucial Samsung WD_BLACK Crucial Sandisk Kingston Samsung Crucial
Digital Storage Capacity 2 TB 500 GB 1 TB 2 TB 2000 GB 1 TB 2 TB - 1 TB 1 TB
Hard Disk Interface NVMe Solid State Solid State Solid State PCIE x 4 Solid State PCIE x 4 - Serial ATA Solid State
Connectivity Technology PCIe Gen4 NVMe NVMe SATA NVMe NVMe NVMe NVMe, PCIe Gen5 - SATA 6Gb/s NVMe
Special Feature PCIe Gen4 NVMe Backward Compatible Data Recovery Service Backward Compatible WD_BLACK Dashboard Backward Compatible ADVANCED RELIABILITY., BREAKNECK SPEEDS, EXPERIENCE PCIe Gen 5 - Hot Swappable, Hardware Encryption Backward Compatible
Hard Disk Description Solid State Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Drive Solid State Drive - Solid State Hard Drive Solid State Drive
Compatible Devices Desktop, Handheld Gaming Console, Laptop Desktop, Gaming Console, Workstation This drive is compatible with desktops and laptops that accept 2.5" 7mm SATA drives Desktop, Laptop Laptop, Motherboards Desktop, Laptop, Workstation Desktop, Laptop - Laptop, PC, Mac Desktop, Gaming Console, Laptop, Workstation
Installation Type Internal Hard Drive Internal Hard Drive Internal Hard Drive Internal Hard Drive Solid State Drive Internal Hard Drive Internal Hard Drive - Internal Hard Drive Internal Hard Drive
Color Black Black Black Black Black Black Black - Black Black
Hard Disk Form Factor 22 Millimeters 2.5 Inches - 2.5 Inches 2.5 Centimeters 22 Millimeters 22 Millimeters - 2.5 Inches 2.5 Inches
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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