How to upgrade the SSD in Your Mac mini (M4, 2024)

The Mac mini M4 marks the return of upgradeable storage on Apple desktop systems — a welcome change for power users and tinkerers alike. Use this guide to replace the SSD (or flash storage module) in your Mac mini (2024). While this guide was written using the base model M4 Mac mini, the M4 Pro model—despite having a longer SSD in a slightly different position—shares the exact same disassembly process.

Although the SSD in the Mac mini resembles a standard M.2 drive, it lacks a built-in storage controller. Apple integrates the controller into the Apple Silicon SoC, making standard M.2 SSDs incompatible. This guide is intended to help you replace your SSD with another of the same Apple-specific type. At Macfixit Australia, we make this upgrade easy with 1TB and 2TB kits, free tool sets, and complimentary installation by our certified technicians.

Available Upgrade Options:

1TB Upgrade Kit Buy Now

2TB Upgrade Kit Buy Now

Note: Ensure the replacement SSD is compatible with your Mac mini model.

Tools Included 

(All tools are included with above mentioned SSD upgrade kits)

• Opening Pick
• Torx Screwdriver (T3,T4,T8)
• Anti-Static Wrist Strap
• Plastic Spudger

⚠️ This upgrade is delicate and we recommend professional help. We do offer free installation services at our service center with certified technicians, free of charge. Contact us at helpdesk@macfixit.com.au

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

• Shut down your Mac mini completely.
• Unplug all cables and peripherals.
• Place the Mac mini upside down on a clean, flat surface.

Step 2: Create a Gap

• Insert the opening tool between the bottom cover and the chassis. 
• Gently pry up to create a small gap. 
• Keep the opening tool inserted to maintain the gap. 

Step 3: Release the Clips

• Slide the opening pick along the edge to locate the clips. 
• There are four clips, one at each corner. 
• Gently twist the pick to release each clip. 

Step 4: Remove the Bottom Cover

• Carefully lift the bottom cover.
• The cover is connected via a fragile power button cable. 
• Disconnect the cable.

Step 5: Separate the Antenna plate

• Unscrew the eight Torx screws securing the antenna plate.
• Gently pull the inner plate away from the chassis to slide it out
• Lift the inner plate and flip it over the edge of the chassis. Let it rest against the chassis.
  

Step 6: Remove the Fan

• Remove the four screws for the fan.
• Lift the fan out of its recess in the chassis and flip it over to expose its wire and connector.
• Let the fan rest on the chassis and heat sink.

Step 7: Disconnect the fan

• Locate and disconnect the fan carefully.
• Remove the fan.

Step 8: Remove the SSD

• Once fan is removed, you can see the SSD connected near the fan connection
• Using T8 Torx screwdriver, Unscrew and carefully pull the SSD straight out of its slot.
  

Step 9: Install the New SSD

• Align the connector and gently insert the new SSD into the socket.
• Secure it with the same screw you previously removed.

Step 10: Reassemble the Mac mini

• Reconnect the fan cable and reinstall the fan.
• Reinstall the antenna plate and eight screws.
• Reattach the bottom cover by aligning and snapping the clips into place.

Step 11: Restore macOS

• Due to the SSD lacking a storage controller, you’ll need to restore macOS using DFU mode.
• Use a Mac with macOS Ventura and above, install Apple Configurator from App store, and get a USB-C cable.
• Turn off Mac mini M4 and connect it to the second Mac via USB-C (the middle USB-C port when you’re facing the back of the Mac).
• Unplug power, hold Power button, then plug in power while holding for 10 sec, then release (You'll see mac mini appear in Apple Configurator).
• Open Apple Configurator, select Mac mini, right click on mac mini, click Restore, and confirm.

    Wait: Let the process complete, and macOS will be reinstalled. ✅

⚠️ This upgrade is delicate and we recommend professional help. We do offer free installation services at our service centre with certified technicians, free of charge. Contact us at helpdesk@macfixit.com.au

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