FM13A 256GB NVMe SSD for MacBook Air Pro iMac - Direct Fit Upgrade

In this review the FM13A 256GB NVMe SSD is presented as a focused replacement drive for mid-2013 to mid-2017 MacBook Air, MacBook Pro Retina and late 2013 to mid-2017 iMac models. The bottom line: this is for owners who want a straightforward, tool-assisted internal upgrade that matches the original Apple SSD interface and delivers a clear performance uplift. The reviewer found it useful for restoring speed and storage without adapters, provided the Mac has macOS 10.13 or later installed for the required EFI firmware update.

Key Features

• Native interface: The 1:1 design follows the original Apple SSD connector so it installs without an adapter, keeping the internal fit clean and reliable.
• High sustained speeds: The NVMe 3D TLC NAND on PCIe 3.0 x4 delivers up to 1700MB/s read and 1300MB/s write for noticeably faster boot and app load times on supported Macs.
• Compatibility guidance: Clear model coverage for MacBook Air A1465/A1466, MacBook Pro A1502/A1398 and iMac A1418/A1419 helps owners match their EMC numbers before buying.
• Ready-to-use media: The package includes a pre-loaded Catalina SSD and a 16GB USB boot installer with Big Sur, which speeds initial setup and migration.
• DIY kit included: Two screwdrivers and a detailed installation guide via QR code make the physical swap practical for users comfortable opening their Mac.

Who It's For

This SSD is aimed at Mac owners who need a clean internal upgrade with no adapter and who are comfortable performing a simple drive swap with basic tools. It suits users who want faster system responsiveness and a replacement or larger primary drive for supported mid-2013 to mid-2017 Mac models.

It is less suitable for owners of newer Macs or machines not listed in the supported EMC/model table, and anyone who has not applied macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later should update first, because the necessary EFI firmware update is required for the drive to be recognized.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Direct-fit design removes the need for an adapter and mirrors the original SSD interface for a tidy internal upgrade.
• Included 16GB USB installer and pre-loaded Catalina drive shorten setup time and simplify migration.
• Tools and a detailed installation guide make a DIY swap practical for most competent users.
• Good read/write performance on PCIe 3.0 x4 for everyday tasks and file transfers on compatible models.

Cons

• Requires macOS 10.13 or later to install EFI firmware first; otherwise the Mac may not recognize the new drive.
• Actual read/write speed can vary by Mac model, so peak numbers are not guaranteed across every supported machine.

Specifications

Capacity	256GB
Interface	NVMe PCIe 3.0 x4
NAND	3D TLC
Max read / write	Up to 1700MB/s read, 1300MB/s write
Compatibility	MacBook Air A1465/A1466, MacBook Pro A1502/A1398, iMac A1418/A1419 (2013-2017)
Package contents	256GB NVMe SSD, 16GB USB boot installer, 2 screwdrivers, installation guide
Warranty	3-year warranty

Our Verdict

The FM13A 256GB NVMe SSD is a practical, cost-effective internal upgrade for supported mid-2013 to mid-2017 MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and iMac models. Its direct-fit design, decent PCIe 3.0 performance and included DIY tools make it excellent value for owners who can perform the swap and who have already updated to macOS 10.13 or later for the required firmware. For those constraints it restores speed and simplifies set up without adapters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this SSD work without updating macOS?
It will not be recognized unless the Mac has macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later installed to apply the necessary EFI firmware update.

Does the kit include tools and install media?
Yes, the kit includes two screwdrivers, a pre-loaded Catalina SSD and a 16GB USB bootable installer with Big Sur.

Are the advertised speeds guaranteed?
Speeds up to 1700MB/s read and 1300MB/s write are maximums; actual performance depends on the Mac model and system conditions.