is it possible to upgrade ssd on rmbp 2015?

[Spink10]

Haven't heard back from the OP, I think the bickering scared him away.

OP:
Re your question:
"is it possible to upgrade ssd on rmbp 2015?"

Yes, it -IS- "possible", but it won't be cheap and the available solutions aren't the best.

You can buy the OWC replacement, but I understand it runs slower and hotter than the original.

Or, you can look for a -used- Apple-labeled drive on ebay.
Don't expect too good a price, however.
These ARE NOT available "new", at any price.

Really, your best option (in my opinion) is to become more critical of what you keep on the MacBook you have now, and "get rid of the excess".
If you need to carry some "additional stuff" around with you, get a pre-packaged USB3 external SSD, something like this:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00ZTRY532?tag=delt-20
...and plug it in when needed.

Unfortunately, this is the trend now with Apple.
Storage is no longer [easily] upgradeable.
If you're going to need "more storage" over the long run, you've got to "pay Apple's price" up front at original purchase time.

Well considering he just created an account he probably doesn't really visit this forum often. This is fairly typical.

 

[JTToft]

Just curious, what are the R/W speeds on the OWC ssds?

- See the OWC product page.
https://eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/SSDAB2MB05

Apple's SSDs can go quite a bit higher than 1000 MB/s. Up to 2 GB/s.
https://www.macrumors.com/2015/05/21/15-inch-retina-macbook-pro-2gbps-throughput/

 

[hallux]

I'll add another wrinkle to the topic. While it IS possible to swap the drive out, you also run the risk of voiding the warranty as any action of the user opening the bottom of the system can do that since Apple views none of the internal components as user serviceable or replaceable. Sure, the tech needs to identify that the bottom was opened and prove it was unauthorized.

 

[robvas]

Just curious, what are the R/W speeds on the OWC ssds? Current SATA SSDs max out at 550 MB/s. NVME is at 2500 MB/s?

Apple's seems to be around 1000 MB/s? For regular users that rarely transfer files continously like video files/large image files, the difference in speeds seems negligible? Do boot times get faster?

the OWC PCIe replacements are slower than the factory SSD

 

[jerryk]

Just curious, what are the R/W speeds on the OWC ssds? Current SATA SSDs max out at 550 MB/s. NVME is at 2500 MB/s?

Apple's seems to be around 1000 MB/s? For regular users that rarely transfer files continously like video files/large image files, the difference in speeds seems negligible? Do boot times get faster?

A lot of mac book pro users do things like produce video that do benefit from fast drive write/read speeds.

The boot times are likely close to the same since process creation and UI element display is more CPU bound than disk bound.
[doublepost=1467743522][/doublepost]

I'll add another wrinkle to the topic. While it IS possible to swap the drive out, you also run the risk of voiding the warranty as any action of the user opening the bottom of the system can do that since Apple views none of the internal components as user serviceable or replaceable. Sure, the tech needs to identify that the bottom was opened and prove it was unauthorized.

I have never heard that the drive is not user serviceable. Just that the upgrade parts are extremely expensive.

And there are other reasons to remove the bottom. I have taken the bottom off to blow out heat sinks and check fan operation.

 

[tubeexperience]

I have never heard that the drive is not user serviceable. Just that the upgrade parts are extremely expensive.

And there are other reasons to remove the bottom. I have taken the bottom off to blow out heat sinks and check fan operation.

I'll add another wrinkle to the topic. While it IS possible to swap the drive out, you also run the risk of voiding the warranty as any action of the user opening the bottom of the system can do that since Apple views none of the internal components as user serviceable or replaceable. Sure, the tech needs to identify that the bottom was opened and prove it was unauthorized.

Upgrading components do not void warranty (Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act).

Of cause, if you damaged the laptop (for example, broke the SSD connector), then you voided the warranty.

 

[maflynn]

Of cause, if you damaged the laptop (for example, broke the SSD connector), then you voided the warranty.

And that's the risk that @hallux is referencing.

Like it or not, if there's evidence that someone tinkered with the computer and apple is doing warranty work, you may be looking at a voided warranty at worst, or at the very least some headaches trying to convey its not related.

 

[tubeexperience]

And that's the risk that @hallux is referencing.

Like it or not, if there's evidence that someone tinkered with the computer and apple is doing warranty work, you may be looking at a voided warranty at worst, or at the very least some headaches trying to convey its not related.

Apple doesn't care unless the repair was performed improperly.

If the SSD connector is broken, then Apple can void the warranty.

 

[hallux]

Upgrading components do not void warranty (Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act).

Of cause, if you damaged the laptop (for example, broke the SSD connector), then you voided the warranty.

Then explain all those devices with the "VOID" sticker across the frame and cover, voiding the warranty if you open them up? For the 2012 MBP (NOT Retina) and earlier, Apple specifically called out the drive and RAM as user-replaceable and even gave some instruction. For the Retina computers, don't you think they would have stuck with the same screw heads if they intended the end-user to be able to open it up? Does Apple call out any parts as being user-replaceable or serviceable?

Oh yeah, there's also this part of the Apple warranty that covers this situation:

to damage caused by service (including upgrades and expansions) performed by anyone who is not a representative of Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider (“AASP”); (g) to an Apple Product that has been modified to alter functionality or capability without the written permission of Apple;

Your Hardware Warranty

I would say one or both parts of that could be used to void the warranty if you've opened the system to swap the drive. Not to mention, Apple makes it VERY difficult to source a compatible SSD.

 

[tubeexperience]

Then explain all those devices with the "VOID" sticker across the frame and cover, voiding the warranty if you open them up? For the 2012 MBP (NOT Retina) and earlier, Apple specifically called out the drive and RAM as user-replaceable and even gave some instruction. For the Retina computers, don't you think they would have stuck with the same screw heads if they intended the end-user to be able to open it up? Does Apple call out any parts as being user-replaceable or serviceable?

Oh yeah, there's also this part of the Apple warranty that covers this situation:



Your Hardware Warranty

I would say one or both parts of that could be used to void the warranty if you've opened the system to swap the drive. Not to mention, Apple makes it VERY difficult to source a compatible SSD.

Apple must comply with the law.

In a Consumer Alert issued by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the agency confirmed that “The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act makes it illegal for companies to void your warranty or deny coverage under the warranty simply because you used an aftermarket part.”

Now, if the repair/upgrade was done improperly, Apple can refuse the warranty.

For example, suppose that SSD connector is broken, the Apple would obviously void the warranty.

 

[hallux]

Apple doesn't get to violate the law.

Neither does the public. However, if you swap out your SSD and Apple can prove the system was opened by an unauthorized person, there is every possibility that Apple can argue the damage was caused by someone unfamiliar with working in an Apple laptop. Those SSDs connect with tiny, fragile, pins inside that connector, if someone jams the drive in wrong while doing the upgrade they become SOL on having a functioning computer.

The fan connector would be a prime example (since you mentioned blowing out the dust). Those can be very delicate, break one of those and you end up on the hook for a new MLB. You can't take it in to Apple, playing dumb and saying "it's overheating". Once they find one of the fans (or the fan) isn't running and pop off the cover to find the connector pulled off the board you become SOL.

Notice I said RISK voiding the warranty in my first post. I didn't say it was an automatic void. People throw around the MMWA as open season for doing anything they want, but if the manufacturer can prove the failure was caused by unauthorized work or faulty non-stock parts they have every right to decline service under warranty. If you replace your SSD and that SSD fails, don't expect Apple to cover it, the tech has to order the exact SSD that was installed in the computer at the factory (trust me, Apple knows).

 

[tubeexperience]

Neither does the public. However, if you swap out your SSD and Apple can prove the system was opened by an unauthorized person, there is every possibility that Apple can argue the damage was caused by someone unfamiliar with working in an Apple laptop. Those SSDs connect with tiny, fragile, pins inside that connector, if someone jams the drive in wrong while doing the upgrade they become SOL on having a functioning computer.

The fan connector would be a prime example (since you mentioned blowing out the dust). Those can be very delicate, break one of those and you end up on the hook for a new MLB. You can't take it in to Apple, playing dumb and saying "it's overheating". Once they find one of the fans (or the fan) isn't running and pop off the cover to find the connector pulled off the board you become SOL.

If Apple opens the laptop and find that the fan connector or the SSD connector is broken, then Apple can deny warranty.

Apple cannot deny the warranty just because it finds an aftermarket fan or an aftermarket SSD.

Notice I said RISK voiding the warranty in my first post. I didn't say it was an automatic void. People throw around the MMWA as open season for doing anything they want, but if the manufacturer can prove the failure was caused by unauthorized work or faulty non-stock parts they have every right to decline service under warranty. If you replace your SSD and that SSD fails, don't expect Apple to cover it, the tech has to order the exact SSD that was installed in the computer at the factory (trust me, Apple knows).

Did I not said that if you broke it, then it's no longer covered under warranty?

Also, you said that just opening the bottom case may void the warranty, which is very unlikely unless you somehow damaged the laptop while opening the bottom case.

 

[hallux]

Did I not said that if you broke it, then it's no longer covered under warranty?

And I said RISK voiding the warranty (see below), but you decided to run away with the "void the warranty" part. "Risk" and "can" are not "will" and "do"

I'll add another wrinkle to the topic. While it IS possible to swap the drive out, you also run the risk of voiding the warranty as any action of the user opening the bottom of the system can do that since Apple views none of the internal components as user serviceable or replaceable. Sure, the tech needs to identify that the bottom was opened and prove it was unauthorized.

 

[elementg12]

And I said RISK voiding the warranty (see below), but you decided to run away with the "void the warranty" part. "Risk" and "can" are not "will" and "do"

Think what he is saying is that you stated that if you open the case it makes the warranty void. You wrote "any action of the user opening the bottom of the system can do that," Tubeexperience is saying that it only voids if you break something.

 

[tubeexperience]

Think what he is saying is that you stated that if you open the case it makes the warranty void. You wrote "any action of the user opening the bottom of the system can do that," Tubeexperience is saying that it only voids if you break something.

That is indeed what I said.

 

[friedkimchi]

A lot of mac book pro users do things like produce video that do benefit from fast drive write/read speeds.

I mentioned regular users that don't do such tasks. For such users the "slower" SSD speeds are not important. Think university students that just want a solid laptop for writing and research with great battery life. Students generally have limited budget.

Sure the faster read/write of Apple's proprietary will help in "professional" environments. But for casual users that use iMovie, it's not going to matter.

The cheaper option to increase the SSD size using 3rd party options compared to Apple's option is enticing. Most people get the base just because it's so much cheaper.

 

[maflynn]

that it only voids if you break something.

If Apple sees damage internally and notices an unauthorized repair, they can and will deny the repair.

My point is that its not worth the risk of voiding the warranty, and/or the hassle of fighting apple, trying to convince them that the work done wasn't the cause of a given malfunction. Yes, the law is on your side, but that doesn't mean its worth the fight.

 

[tubeexperience]

If Apple sees damage internally and notices an unauthorized repair, they can and will deny the repair.

My point is that its not worth the risk of voiding the warranty, and/or the hassle of fighting apple, trying to convince them that the work done wasn't the cause of a given malfunction. Yes, the law is on your side, but that doesn't mean its worth the fight.

If you don't practice your rights, you lose them.

 

[maflynn]

If you don't practice your rights, you lose them.

No you wont. You said it yourself, its a law.

Beside, my time is precious to me, and I do not want to spend extended periods of time, arguing with someone at Apple, just because I have a right to dispute it. To put it more succinctly, I think if I can avoid the issue completely, that will be better for everyone.

You have your opinion and I respect it, but I think you continue to ignore the fact that others don't agree with you. You keep hammering away, trying to convince us, - Yes the law is written to protect the consumer, but many of us consumers don't have the time, energy and patience to fight with a multibillion dollar corporation especially when that fight could largely be avoided.

The point remains, if you open up the computer, and you cause some level of damage, you will have a hard time getting warranty work. While in the end if that damage is not related to the warranty work, you may successfully convince the people at Apple, it typically will take an extended period of time, to manage that process through the bureaucracy that is common among multibillion dollar corporations.

So there you have it. Yes, you can fight the issue, yes you have the law on your side. Its questionable whether its worth the hassle. In the end, you think it is, where as I do not.

 

[tubeexperience]

No you wont. You said it yourself, its a law.

Beside, my time is precious to me, and I do not want to spend extended periods of time, arguing with someone at Apple, just because I have a right to dispute it. To put it more succinctly, I think if I can avoid the issue completely, that will be better for everyone.

You have your opinion and I respect it, but I think you continue to ignore the fact that others don't agree with you. You keep hammering away, trying to convince us, - Yes the law is written to protect the consumer, but many of us consumers don't have the time, energy and patience to fight with a multibillion dollar corporation especially when that fight could largely be avoided.

The point remains, if you open up the computer, and you cause some level of damage, you will have a hard time getting warranty work. While in the end if that damage is not related to the warranty work, you may successfully convince the people at Apple, it typically will take an extended period of time, to manage that process through the bureaucracy that is common among multibillion dollar corporations.

So there you have it. Yes, you can fight the issue, yes you have the law on your side. Its questionable whether its worth the hassle. In the end, you think it is, where as I do not.

There is an even simpler solution if you want to avoid the "hassle": simply swap back in the original SSD before bring the laptop in for warrantied repairs.

 

[T5BRICK]

There is an even simpler solution if you want to avoid the "hassle": simply swap back in the original SSD before bring the laptop in for warrantied repairs.

The easiest option of all is to just buy the computer that suits your needs and budget. Then if something goes wrong, just take it in for repair. No opening it up to replace all of the upgrades that you did to save money.

Most of the market operates this way. We've discussed this before, and I know you don't agree, but I still believe that most consumers just don't care about upgradeability. Most don't have the time or technical know-how to deal with it, and would just prefer to drop it off and have it fixed by the manufacturer.

 

[maflynn]

There is an even simpler solution if you want to avoid the "hassle": simply swap back in the original SSD before bring the laptop in for warrantied repairs.

You mean be dishonest and cover up your mistakes

The easiest option of all is to just buy the computer that suits your needs and budget.

Yup, that's what I always aim to do, and so far it hasn't led to any disappointments

 

[jerryk]

I mentioned regular users that don't do such tasks. For such users the "slower" SSD speeds are not important. Think university students that just want a solid laptop for writing and research with great battery life. Students generally have limited budget.

Sure the faster read/write of Apple's proprietary will help in "professional" environments. But for casual users that use iMovie, it's not going to matter.

The cheaper option to increase the SSD size using 3rd party options compared to Apple's option is enticing. Most people get the base just because it's so much cheaper.

I understand your point, but if one is a casual user why buy the rMBP in the first place?

They have parts and engineering in them that makes them expensive and perform optimally. But for a casual user they could get enough performance at a lower price point. Especially the 15" models which I see at the colleges around here.

 

[tubeexperience]

The easiest option of all is to just buy the computer that suits your needs and budget. Then if something goes wrong, just take it in for repair. No opening it up to replace all of the upgrades that you did to save money.

Most of the market operates this way. We've discussed this before, and I know you don't agree, but I still believe that most consumers just don't care about upgradeability. Most don't have the time or technical know-how to deal with it, and would just prefer to drop it off and have it fixed by the manufacturer.

As I have previously said, not everyone can or want to spend money buying the most expensive storage configuration at the time of initial purchase.

For example, the retail price for the MacBook Pro 15-inch (non dGPU) with 256 GB SSD is $1999. The upfront cost of upgrading to 1TB SSD is an additional $800 and many people cannot or do not want to spend another $800 upfront.

Perhaps you are fortunate enough to be able to easily spend another $800 at the time of purchase, but that is not the case with many others.

You mean be dishonest and cover up your mistakes

What "mistakes" did I made?

Also, how am I being "dishonest"?

 

[elementg12]

If Apple sees damage internally and notices an unauthorized repair, they can and will deny the repair.

My point is that its not worth the risk of voiding the warranty, and/or the hassle of fighting apple, trying to convince them that the work done wasn't the cause of a given malfunction. Yes, the law is on your side, but that doesn't mean its worth the fight.

If Apple sees damage that has nothing to do with whatever you switched then they probably won't do anything. I doubt they care that much about one customer to argue unless they have proof that your upgrade was the cause of the damage. I think it is worth the risk because if you are careful while replacing whatever you are doing then it's a pretty low risk of anything going wrong. Save a few hundred dollars on doing it yourself or take it to apple to do it for more.