The launch of the Mac Mini M4 has caused a stir, not only because of its compact design or the powerful M4 chip, but also because of what it hides inside. One of the biggest surprises for users is that the SSD is no longer soldered to the motherboard, which has raised expectations about the possibility of easily expanding or changing it. But before you get excited and take apart your rig, there are several important things to consider.
A modular SSD, but not so accessible
Apple has decided to offer a removable SSD in the Mac Mini M4, similar to what it already did in the Mac Studio and Mac Pro. At first glance, this should be great news: an essential component that could be replaced or, in theory, upgraded. However, it's not all that simple. Although the SSD is accessible, Apple continues to maintain tight control over its components, which means that even though it is modular, this is not a drive you can just take out and replace as easily as you would on other machines. This is where you have to delve into the darkest depths.
While many hoped that this SSD would be upgradeable like other computers, the truth is that the limitations of Apple's hardware and software make it not so simple. Some expert users have managed to expand the storage, but this requires specialized tools and advanced technical knowledgeFor example, a YouTuber named DosDude1 has shown how he managed to change the NAND chips in a 4GB M256 Mac Mini, replacing them with ones of up to 1TB.
This process, however, is not for everyone. Disassembling the SSD involves use heat guns, perform reballing of the chips and soldering the new ones. That is, not only advanced knowledge is required, but also specialized equipment that most users do not have at home. While getting it can be an option for professionals or hardware enthusiasts, for the average user it is most likely that they will have to rely on a specialized technical service. And in the end, although the memory module is removable, the components that make it up make it special, so there is no other option than to unsolder the chips and put in new ones, something that is practically the same as when the memories arrived soldered on the board.
Alternatives to expand storage
For those who do not want or cannot venture to disassemble their Mac Mini M4, there are always simpler alternatives. One of the most obvious is use external storageConnecting an external SSD via Thunderbolt or USB-C ports offers very fast transfer speeds and is a less invasive solution. You can also turn to cloud solutions like iCloud to expand storage without installing anything on your Mac Mini hardware.
Apple storage upgrades usually have prices that many consider exorbitantFor example, upgrading the Mac Mini M4 from 256GB of storage to 2TB directly from Apple costs an additional 920 euros, a figure considerably higher than the price of SSDs that can be found on the market. This difference in cost is what leads many users to look for alternatives.
Should you replace your SSD?
When purchasing, many users wonder if they should opt for the most basic model of the Mac Mini M4 and consider future storage expansion. The truth is that, with the limitations mentioned, changing the SSD is not an easy option for most. If you do not feel comfortable disassembling the computer and changing the NAND chips yourself, it would be best to buy one yourself. choose the storage you need well from the start.
However, if you're on a budget and prefer to go with the base model, you always have the option of using an external SSD or iCloud. Both options will allow you to increase your Mac's storage without having to disassemble it.
As technology advances, we may see changes in Apple's future policies. Some European regulations are already forcing Apple to make certain components, such as batteries, more easily replaceable. Could the same thing happen with storage in the future? Only time will tell, but for now, The best strategy is to make sure you purchase equipment with adequate storage from the start..