The recently unveiled M4 Mac mini introduces a design shift for Apple: removable SSD storage. Unlike previous models where storage was soldered directly to the logic board, the M4 Mac mini incorporates a slotted SSD, enabling users to technically remove and replace the storage. However, this change does not equate to an easy upgrade path for end-users.
Not So User-Friendly Upgrades
Apple’s decision to include a removable SSD in the M4 Mac mini has sparked discussions in online forums, with enthusiasts curious about potential upgrades. A user in iFixit forums shared an image of the disassembled M4 Mac mini, revealing a slot-in SSD board. Although this design theoretically allows for replacement, it’s not as straightforward as it may appear.
The M4 Mac mini’s storage component is a custom part that consumers cannot readily purchase. This unique design limits its availability and discourages DIY replacements, marking it as an option more suited for in-house repairs at Apple than for user-led upgrades.
Challenges for Hardware Tinkerers
Some hardware enthusiasts have tackled similar challenges in the past, using intricate methods to replace storage in Apple Silicon devices. These methods often involve delicate soldering and configuring replacement storage chips. A few have successfully swapped storage on Mac Studio and MacBook Pro models, though it’s a process fraught with risks and requires advanced technical skills.
Apple’s stance against user-upgradeable storage in recent models suggests this removable SSD will likely remain inaccessible for average users. For those looking to expand storage, AppleInsider advises considering external SSD options rather than attempting an internal upgrade, given the risks and technical demands involved.
Why Apple Avoids DIY-Friendly Upgrades
Historically, Apple has only released official storage replacement kits for select models like the Mac Pro. By offering limited options for internal upgrades, Apple maintains control over the repair ecosystem, directing users toward authorized services. For the average Mac mini owner, an external drive is a safer, more practical solution for storage expansion.
