MacBook Air: Most models from 2017 or older have hard drive upgrade options. Make note of the model - for example: MacBook Pro (Retina, 15-inch, Mid 2015) - and the serial number. The serial number will help the repair shop or online parts reseller determine your exact options when the time comes. To do this, click on the Apple icon in the upper left corner, then on 'About This Mac.' Your exact model will determine whether you have any upgrade options, so start by determining what you have. Here are the risks Should you be using a VPN at home to protect against hackers? Behind the benefits Determine if your MacBook is upgradeable Is Google's Password Manager safe? Here's how to protect your information online Traveling abroad? Here's what you need to know about your cellphone plan before you go Syncing your office and home computer has its perks - and cons. Upgrading can generally extend the life of an older computer for years since most users spend most of their time on the Internet. Not only can it increase the amount of storage you’ll have available, but it can also significantly improve the speed, especially on older units that have older hard drive technology. The single most important device that you want to be able to upgrade is the hard drive, preferably with a Solid State Drive (SSD).

No matter what you think you need today, it’s very likely you’ll need more in the future.

I recently wrote about this issue when it comes to All-In-One computers ( 4 Reasons to Avoid All-In-One PCs.) When a hardware component fails, if you can’t cost-effectively replace that specific component, you’re faced with a repair bill that can be close to buying a new computer. Question: I just found out that my MacBook Pro’s hard drive can’t be upgraded because it’s soldered in! When did this change happen on Macs?Īnswer: A couple of things everyone buying a new computer should always consider is both the upgradeability and reparability of the unit.