Dogfish 512GB SSD for MacBook Pro A1708 - Faster Boot & App Load

In this review of the Dogfish 512GB SSD for MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017), the bottom line is simple: it is a practical, cost-effective internal upgrade for owners of the non-Touch Bar A1708 model who want noticeably faster boot and app load times. The reviewer found the drive delivers the claimed high sequential read speeds and responsive everyday performance, and appreciates the included guidance for reinstalling macOS when needed. This review focuses on compatibility notes, installation realities, and real-world value.

Key Features

• Compatibility: Specifically built for the MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017) non-Touch Bar models, reducing the risk of fit or connector issues when you follow the model guidance.
• High read speed: Sequential read performance up to 2150MB/s provides faster boot times and quicker application launches compared with typical SATA SSDs.
• Generation and interface: PCIe Gen3x4 M.2 NVMe interface gives a modern bus to support higher throughput for demanding daily tasks.
• Capacity choices: Available in multiple capacities so you can choose 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB depending on storage needs and budget.
• Safety and encryption: The drive supports encryption features so you can protect data when used with macOS FileVault or other encryption tools.
• Support: Includes a 3-year DOGFISH limited warranty and lifetime technical support for post-purchase help.

Who It's For

This upgrade is aimed at MacBook Pro A1708 owners who are comfortable opening their laptop or willing to follow step-by-step installation guides to replace the internal SSD. It is especially useful for users who need faster system responsiveness for web work, development, or creative apps and want a budget-friendly alternative to buying a newer laptop.

It is not for owners of Touch Bar MacBook Pro models or those who have not updated their original SSD to macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later, because the replacement drive may not be recognized unless the system firmware and original drive meet that requirement. If you prefer a plug-and-play external solution or need official Apple-authorized service, look elsewhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Noticeably faster boot and app load times due to the NVMe PCIe Gen3x4 interface and high read speed.
• Multiple capacity options let buyers balance storage needs and cost.
• Clear installation guidance and three recommended macOS reinstall methods help less experienced users.
• Includes a 3-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support for peace of mind.

Cons

• Only supports non-Touch Bar A1708 models, so it is not a universal MacBook Pro replacement drive.
• Users must update their original SSD to macOS 10.13 or newer and may need to reformat or reinstall macOS, which adds steps before the new drive works.

Specifications

Product	Dogfish internal M.2 NVMe SSD
Compatible model	MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017) non-Touch Bar
Interface	PCIe Gen3x4 M.2 NVMe
Read speed	Up to 2150MB/s
Write speed (example)	Up to 1650MB/s (1TB model)
Capacities	256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Warranty & support	3-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support

Our Verdict

The Dogfish 512GB SSD is a sensible, good-value internal upgrade for owners of the MacBook Pro A1708 non-Touch Bar who are willing to handle reformatting and macOS reinstall steps. It delivers tangible speed improvements over older drives and comes with useful installation guidance and warranty support, making it a practical way to extend an older MacBook's usable life without a costly replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this drive work in Touch Bar MacBook Pro models?
No. It is specified for non-Touch Bar A1708 models only and will not be compatible with Touch Bar variants.

What should I do before swapping the drive?
Back up your original data to external media and update the original SSD to macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later so the new SSD will be recognized after installation.

How can I install macOS on the new SSD?
You can restore from a Time Machine backup, create a USB installer, or use Internet Recovery; reformatting the new SSD before restoring is required.