Apple’s Mac Mini M4 has garnered praise for its compact design and extraordinary performance at an attractive price point, starting around $700. Its small footprint (approximately 5 x 5 x 2 inches) makes it an ideal desktop solution for users looking for power without bulk. However, Apple’s configuration choices, especially concerning storage, have drawn criticism. While the base model includes a respectable 16GB of RAM suitable for many tasks,including basic photo and video editing,the standard solid-state drive (SSD) capacity is a mere 256GB. This limitation quickly becomes apparent as users accumulate files, applications, and media.

The cost to upgrade the internal storage through Apple is considerable. Doubling the storage to 512GB incurs an additional $200, while upgrading to 1TB costs $400 and 2TB a hefty $800.This pricing structure has led many users to consider aftermarket upgrade options, accepting the implied risk of damaging their devices. Fortunately,third-party manufacturers offer upgrade kits that present a more economical solution,inviting a deeper look into the feasibility of DIY upgrades.

The Allure of aftermarket SSD Upgrades

Apple doesn’t utilize a standard, off-the-shelf SSD in the Mac Mini M4, despite its physical resemblance to an M.2-2230 format drive, complicating the upgrade process.While the storage consists of NAND flash memory, a dedicated memory controller chip is absent. This design choice pushes some users toward third-party upgrade kits available through online marketplaces like Alibaba, eBay, and direct from manufacturers such as expand mac mini.

These kits, which include the necesary SSD and tools, range in price from approximately $170 for a 1TB drive to $250-$300 for a 2TB option, such as the one from Expand Mac Mini. While such offers can be tempting, prospective buyers should exercise caution. Online marketplaces are rife wiht potential scams, including phishing attempts and undelivered goods. Furthermore, unfamiliar company names can be concerning.

One reviewer chose to test an upgrade kit from Expand Mac Mini, finding the company, name notwithstanding, to appear legitimate. The availability of PayPal as a payment option provided an additional layer of buyer protection. Despite these assurances, the delivery time was lengthy, spanning from early January to mid-april. This timeline reflects ongoing supply chain challenges that effect the electronics industry.

unboxing and First impressions

Upon arrival, the upgrade kit exuded quality, particularly in its packaging. The memory module was securely housed in a padded plastic box, and the kit included two high-quality Torx screwdrivers and plastic pry tools essential for opening the Mac mini’s case. However, a printed installation guide was notably absent, requiring users to consult online resources such as iFixit for detailed instructions.

Mac Mini M4 Storage Upgrade
Mac Mini M4: Gaining access for a storage upgrade requires removing the bottom cover.

Step-by-step: Opening the Mac Mini M4

The Mac Mini M4 is surprisingly user-pleasant compared to many other Apple products when it comes to disassembly. The plastic bottom cover is secured with clips at each corner, which can be easily disengaged using a plastic pry tool. Once the cover is removed, the fan becomes visible, held in place by eight torx screws. Removing these screws allows access to the fan itself, which is secured by four additional screws.

A word of caution: some users have reported that Apple uses low-quality screws that are prone to stripping. applying excessive force can round the screw heads, making removal impossible. Using the correct screwdriver size and applying gentle,consistent pressure is crucial.

The Need for a Second Mac

After installing the new SSD, a second Mac computer running macOS 14 or later is necessary to reinstall the operating system and firmware. The two computers are connected via a USB 3.0 cable, and the Apple Configurator program, available from the Mac App Store, is used to restore the Mac Mini M4. The process involves placing the Mac Mini into Device Firmware Update (DFU) mode and using apple Configurator to install the latest firmware, obtained as an ISPW file. The “Restore” option initiates a clean installation of macOS.

Following the restore, the Mac Mini M4 boots into a fresh macOS installation, requiring users to configure their settings and reinstall their preferred applications.

Mac Mini M4: Storage Upgrade
mac Mini M4: The SSD storage is easily accessible for replacement.

Performance Gains with the Expand Mac Mini Kit

The stock Apple SSD in the Mac Mini M4 isn’t known for its speed. Testing reveals read speeds of approximately 1,700 MB/s and write speeds around 2,900 MB/s. These figures are significantly lower than what’s achievable with modern PCIe 4.0 SSDs, which can reach twice the read speed and four times the write speed.

The Expand Mac Mini upgrade kit, however, delivers a notable performance boost. The 2TB drive tested achieved read and write speeds of approximately 3,000 MB/s, a marked improvement over the stock 256GB SSD.

Conclusion

Upgrading the storage on a Mac Mini M4 can save substantial money compared to purchasing a higher-capacity model directly from Apple. Kits from vendors like Expand mac Mini offer a viable solution, with the added benefit of improved performance. While the upgrade process requires some technical skill and caution – particularly when handling the fan screws – it’s generally straightforward.

For budget-conscious users seeking a powerful and versatile desktop computer,the Mac Mini M4,coupled with an aftermarket SSD upgrade,presents an appealing option.

Pros and Cons of DIY Mac Mini M4 Storage Upgrade

  • Pros:
    • Important cost savings compared to Apple’s upgrade options
    • Potential for improved SSD performance
    • Relatively straightforward installation process
  • Cons:
    • Risk of damaging the device during installation
    • Requires a second Mac for macOS reinstallation
    • Potential for stripped screws during disassembly
    • Warranty implications may exist