SSD 256GB NVMe Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina 13 A1708 - Faster

In this review of the SSD 256GB NVMe Replacement for MacBook Pro Retina 13 A1708, the bottom line is simple: this is a focused upgrade for owners of the non-Touch Bar 2016 and 2017 13in MacBook Pro who need noticeably faster boot and file transfer speeds without adapters. The reviewer found the drive delivers the main benefit promised - high sustained throughput using NVMe PCIe Gen3.0x4 - while also noting the essential requirement to update macOS to 10.13 High Sierra or later before installation so the Mac will recognize the new module.

Key Features

• Native Apple interface: Installs directly into the MacBook Pro A1708 slot so no adapter is required, simplifying upgrades for compatible machines.
• High transfer speeds: NVMe PCIe Gen3.0x4 and 3D NAND deliver up to 2500MB/s read and 2000MB/s write for faster boot, app launches, and file transfers.
• Firmware dependency warning: Requires macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later to apply EFI updates so the Mac recognizes the new SSD, preventing install issues when skipped.
• Data integrity features: ECC, garbage collection, bad block management, S.M.A.R.T., and TRIM increase reliability and help maintain performance over time.
• Thermal and power design: Intelligent temperature management and a thermal design reduce heat and power draw compared with older storage options, helping battery life in laptops.
• Support and warranty: Preinstalled macOS for A1708 units and a 5-year warranty with technical support provide extra assurance after purchase.

Who It's For

This SSD is best for owners of the MacBook Pro Retina 13in A1708 (Late 2016 and Mid 2017) Non-Touch Bar models who want a straightforward, faster internal storage upgrade without using external adapters. It appeals to users who run macOS and need quicker system responsiveness for everyday tasks, photo editing, or light video work.

It is not for owners of Touch Bar models or other MacBook generations; those users should check compatibility carefully since the EMC and model must match. Also, anyone unable or unwilling to upgrade their Mac to macOS 10.13 or later beforehand should look elsewhere because the EFI firmware update is mandatory for recognition.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High sequential read and write speeds substantially reduce boot and load times.
• Direct fit for A1708 MacBook Pro means a clean internal upgrade without adapters.
• Built-in data protection features and thermal design support long-term reliability.
• Five-year warranty and preinstalled macOS for A1708 units simplify setup and support.

Cons

• Requires macOS 10.13 or later for EFI updates; installation will fail on older firmware if not updated first.
• Compatibility is limited to specific non-Touch Bar models; wrong EMC or model means it will not work.

Specifications

Capacity	256GB
Interface	M.2 NVMe PCIe Gen3.0x4 (Apple original interface)
Read Speed	Up to 2500MB/s
Write Speed	Up to 2000MB/s
Compatible Models	MacBook Pro Retina 13 A1708 (Late 2016, Mid 2017) Non-Touch Bar; EMC 2978/3164
Firmware / OS Requirement	macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later (EFI firmware update required)
Warranty	5-year warranty and technical support

Our Verdict

This SSD is a sensible, cost-effective upgrade for owners of the A1708 MacBook Pro who want significantly faster boot and transfer speeds with a native interface and no adapter. It is good value for users willing to update their Mac to macOS 10.13 or later beforehand, and the 5-year warranty plus preinstalled macOS for A1708 units reduces setup friction and risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this work in Touch Bar MacBook Pro models?
No. This replacement is specifically for the 13in A1708 Non-Touch Bar models with EMC 2978/3164 and will not work in Touch Bar models.

Do I need to update macOS before installing?
Yes. You must upgrade to macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later to apply the EFI firmware update so the Mac will recognize the new SSD.

Is an adapter required?
No. The SSD uses the Apple original M.2 NVMe interface and installs directly into the compatible MacBook Pro slot without an adapter.