Upgrading storage on the MacBook Air M3 has become one of the most common questions among Apple users in 2024. With the incredible performance of the M3 chip, paired with blazing-fast SSDs, many users feel the need for extra space as their workflows expand—especially if they deal with large design files, 4K/8K video projects, or intensive coding environments. But can you actually upgrade the storage on a MacBook Air M3? Let’s explore all the possibilities, from external drives and cloning SSDs to OWC MacBook Pro SSD options and what Apple has done differently with the M3 lineup.
Add Extra External Storage Space and Clone M3 MacBook Pro SSDs
The simplest way to extend your MacBook Air M3 storage is through external SSDs. Brands like Samsung T7, Crucial X9, and SanDisk Extreme provide portable high-speed storage that rivals internal SSD performance.
You can even clone your M3 MacBook Pro SSD onto an external drive for backup or migration. Tools like Carbon Copy Cloner or SuperDuper! make this process smooth. For professionals working on time-sensitive projects, external SSDs are the safest and most cost-effective upgrade path.
Upgrade M3 MacBook Pro SSDs Manually
Here’s where things get tricky. Apple has soldered SSDs on most M1, M2, and now M3 MacBook Air and Pro models. This means you cannot simply remove the SSD and replace it with a larger one like you could in older Intel-based MacBooks.
However, third-party labs and advanced technicians can sometimes desolder NAND chips and replace them, but this process is extremely risky, costly, and not recommended for average users. For now, the most reliable “manual upgrade” is external storage.
M3 MacBook Air Has An SSD Upgrade That People Don’t Even Realize
Most users don’t realize that while the M3 MacBook Air SSD cannot be swapped internally, Apple allows you to configure higher storage options at the time of purchase—up to 2TB SSD. This is technically an “upgrade,” but it must be done before checkout. If you already own the MacBook, external storage remains your best option.
Extend Your MacBook’s Battery Power Now With These 7 Tips
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Lower screen brightness
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Use Safari instead of Chrome
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Disable background apps
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Turn off Bluetooth when unused
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Enable battery optimization in settings
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Close unused browser tabs
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Keep your macOS updated
Can You Upgrade the SSD on a MacBook Air?
The big question—can you upgrade the SSD on a MacBook Air?
The answer: not internally on M1, M2, or M3 models. Apple soldered the SSD directly to the motherboard for efficiency, speed, and security. This prevents after-market replacements.
Unlock the Full Potential of Your MacBook Air with an SSD Upgrade!
If you’re buying new, choose higher storage upfront. If you already own one, you can still “upgrade” externally with Thunderbolt 4 SSDs that match Apple’s native speeds.
What Steps Can You Take to Confirm That the New SSD Is Recognized and Functioning Correctly?
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Open Disk Utility
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Check under Internal/External drives
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Run First Aid to confirm SSD health
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Test transfer speeds using Blackmagic Disk Speed Test
What Precautions Should You Take Throughout the Process?
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Always back up data before cloning/migrating
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Use high-quality certified SSDs
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Avoid overheating with proper airflow
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Only buy from trusted brands (Samsung, Crucial, OWC, SanDisk)
MacBook Pro OWC Solid State Drives
If you own an older Intel-based MacBook Pro, OWC SSD upgrades are still available.
Upgrade Your MacBook Pro SSD for More Storage
OWC offers Aura Pro X2 SSDs that let you expand storage up to 2TB or more, giving older MacBook Pros a second life.
Select Your MacBook Pro Model – Change Mac Model
You’ll need to verify your exact MacBook Pro model year before purchasing an SSD, as compatibility varies.
MacBook Pro OWC Solid-State Drives
These drives deliver high speeds and are designed for macOS compatibility. They come with installation kits, making DIY upgrades possible for pre-2016 MacBooks.
Why Consider an OWC MacBook Pro SSD Upgrade?
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Cost-effective compared to buying a new Mac
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Extend the life of your laptop
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Boost performance with faster storage
Why Can’t I Upgrade My MacBook Pro SSD?
If you own a 2016 or newer Apple Silicon MacBook, SSDs are soldered and non-upgradable, just like the M3 Air.
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M3, 2023) Review: The Best MacBook Pro for the Money
Apple’s 14-inch MacBook Pro (M3, 2023) is considered one of the best laptops in its class.
MacBook Pro M3 Review: Specs
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Chip: Apple M3, M3 Pro, M3 Max options
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Storage: 512GB – 4TB SSD
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RAM: Up to 36GB Unified Memory
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Battery: 22 hours playback
MacBook Pro M3 Review: Release Date and Price
Released in late 2023, pricing starts at $1,599 and goes higher depending on configurations.
MacBook Pro M3 Review: Verdict
If you need a performance powerhouse with expandable storage options, the 14-inch MacBook Pro M3 is unbeatable—though you must configure storage upfront.
FAQs – MacBook Air M3 Storage Upgrade
Q1. Can I upgrade my MacBook Air M3 SSD after purchase?
No. SSDs are soldered to the motherboard. The only way is to use external SSDs.
Q2. What’s the best external SSD for MacBook Air M3?
The Samsung T7 Shield and SanDisk Extreme Pro are top choices for high-speed storage.
Q3. Is OWC SSD upgrade possible on the MacBook Air M3?
No, OWC SSDs only support older Intel-based MacBook models.
Q4. Should I buy more storage upfront?
Yes. If you rely heavily on files and projects, choosing 1TB or 2TB at purchase is the best option.
Q5. Can external SSDs match Apple’s internal SSD speed?
With Thunderbolt 4, external SSDs can come very close, offering up to 2,800 MB/s read speeds.