by 115 reviews.
KINGDATA 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD for MacBook Pro A1708: A Comprehensive Review
Upgrading your MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017 Non-Touch Bar models) doesn’t have to be a daunting task. The KINGDATA 512GB NVMe PCIe Gen3x4 M.2 SSD promises to breathe new life into your device with its high-speed performance, enhanced durability, and seamless installation process. With read speeds of up to 2150 MB/s and write speeds of 1650 MB/s, this SSD is designed to deliver faster boot times, quicker application loading, and smoother multitasking. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the details based on real customer experiences.
Pros and Cons: What Customers Are Saying
1. Performance and Speed
The KINGDATA SSD is praised for its blazing-fast speeds, which significantly improve the overall performance of older MacBook Pro models. One customer noted, "This SSD worked perfectly and was preloaded with the OS, which saved me a ton of time and hassle." Another user mentioned that the drive is "faster than the original hard drive," even when used with an adapter in an older PowerBook.
However, some users reported initial recognition issues. One reviewer shared, "The first two times I tried connecting it to a computer, it wasn’t recognized, but since then, the drive has been working fine." While this seems to be a rare occurrence, it’s worth noting that compatibility and setup can sometimes require a bit of troubleshooting.
2. Ease of Installation
Many customers appreciated the hassle-free installation process. The SSD comes with two screwdrivers and detailed instructions, making it accessible even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. One user said, "The new drive went in without a hitch, and I was able to get the new OS installed." Another mentioned that the hardest part was "keeping track of all the screws," a common gripe with Apple devices.
For those who prefer a plug-and-play experience, the pre-installed macOS option is a standout feature. "This drive came with the OS installed, worked perfectly, no hang-ups at all. Just like a proper restore, turn it on and finish setup," shared a satisfied customer. However, some users opted to reinstall the OS for added peace of mind, as one reviewer stated, "I didn’t trust the pre-installed OSX, so I reinstalled."
3. Build Quality and Durability
The KINGDATA SSD is built to last, with a shock-resistant, noiseless, and energy-efficient design. Customers have praised its durability, with one noting, "Hopefully, this lasts longer than the OEM one that died." The drive’s advanced technology, including support for TRIM, S.M.A.R.T, and LDPC ECC, ensures stable and efficient performance over time.
However, there were a few isolated complaints about the product’s physical condition upon arrival. One customer reported, "The box was damaged upon receipt, and the plastic holder inside looked a bit melted." While this didn’t affect the drive’s functionality in most cases, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re particular about packaging.
4. Compatibility and Versatility
The KINGDATA SSD is specifically designed for MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017 Non-Touch Bar models), but some users have successfully adapted it for other devices. For example, one reviewer used it with a PATA to M2 SATA adapter in an older PowerBook, stating, "It’s faster than the original hard drive, but of course, its speed is still limited to PATA in my use case."
That said, compatibility issues can arise if you’re not careful. One user mistakenly purchased the NVMe SSD for an mSATA slot, noting, "Sadly, I did not know this, and searching specifically for mSATA, this item popped up in the Amazon results." Always double-check your device’s specifications before making a purchase.
Conclusion: Is the KINGDATA 512GB NVMe SSD Worth It?
The KINGDATA 512GB NVMe PCIe SSD is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their MacBook Pro A1708. Its high-speed performance, easy installation, and durable design make it a standout option in the market. While there are occasional hiccups with recognition and compatibility, the majority of customers have had positive experiences, praising its ability to extend the life of their devices.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking to breathe new life into your MacBook Pro, the KINGDATA SSD is a reliable and cost-effective solution. Just be sure to back up your data, double-check compatibility, and follow the installation instructions carefully. With a 3-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support, this SSD offers excellent value for money.
Specification SSD for MacBook 512GB NVMe PCIe Gen3x4 M.2, Internal Solid State Drive Upgrade for MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017):
Comments from Amazon:
I bought this along with a PATA to M2 SATA adapter to put this in my old Powerbook whose hard drive was dying. I didn't need a large drive for MacOS 9 as 64 GB is plenty compared to the stock 40 GB. It's faster than the original hard drive, but of course its speed is still limited to PATA in my use case. The first two times I tried connecting it to a computer it wasn't recognized, but I am not sure if it was something I did or if it was a fluke. However since then the drive has been working fine.
Fantastic buying experience. This SSD worked perfectly and was preloaded with the OS which saved me a ton of time and hassle. Extend the life of your old MacBook and replace your SSD with one of these.
It works great but I didn’t trust the pre installed osx so I reinstalled.
freshen out the box, damaged box upon receipt and looked as though the plastic holder inside the box was a bit melted. Tried out the drive, nothing happens with the drive; it’s as though I never entered it into the enclosure that I use. The drive is a dud because I reaffirmed it in another enclosure. What a waste of money considering I’m in an overseas Location serving the military and have no prompt way of sending this back. Piece of fecal
For the uninitiated, NVMe is the newer standard and considerably smaller in physical size than the mSATA spec. Sadly I did not know this and searching specifically for mSATA, this item popped up in the Amazon results. The over shape is similar, but it didn't fit in my 2015 laptop. Glad I could return it unopened for full refund.
This was a perfect update to our slightly older MacBook pro. It was actually pretty easy to swap out with the hardest part just being keeping track of all the screws, which for some reason Apple thinks is a great idea to use different sizes for all of them. The new drive went in without a hitch and I was able to get the new OS installed (booting pushing Command (⌘)-R). Speed seems great, hopefully this lasts longer than the OEM one that died.
This drive came with the OS installed, worked perfectly, no hang ups at all. Just like a proper restore, turn it on and finish set up. No formatting, no downloads, just updates. Very pleased!