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“Comprehensive Tutorial for Enhancing the SSD in Your M4 Mac Mini to Cut Costs [Video]”

# Enhancing Your M4 Mac Mini: An Affordable Guide to 2TB Storage

The standard model M4 Mac mini has attracted interest due to its low price and efficiency, especially for those wanting a cost-effective Mac experience. Nevertheless, the upgrade costs for storage from Apple can be high. Increasing the storage to a maximum of 2TB may add another $800, turning a $600 device into a $1400 purchase. This significant cost difference has caused many users to explore alternative options, with Expand Mac mini offering a 2TB upgrade for only $320—less than half the cost of Apple.

## Reasons to Upgrade Your Storage

As the need for storage grows because of larger apps, games, and media files, having sufficient SSD capacity is essential. The base model M4 Mac mini is equipped with a basic 256GB SSD, which may not meet the requirements of many users. Upgrading to a 2TB SSD not only boosts storage volume but also enhances system performance overall, particularly for operations demanding quick read/write speeds.

## Required Tools and Materials

Before you begin the upgrade, make sure you have the following items at hand:

– **Base M4 Mac mini**
– **Expand Mac mini 2TB SSD**
– **Another Mac running macOS Sonoma 14 or later for macOS restoration**
– **External SSD for Time Machine backup**
– **USB-C to USB-C cable (for data and charging)**
– **T3, T5, and T8 Torx drivers**
– **Jimmy tool**
– **Opening pick**
– **Tweezers (optional)**
– **Spudger (optional)**

While Expand Mac mini provides some tools, possessing a high-quality toolkit such as the iFixit Pro Tech Kit can facilitate a smoother experience.

## Step-by-Step Upgrade Instructions

### 1. Backup Your Mac

Prior to making any hardware modifications, it’s crucial to back up your data. Utilize Time Machine to back up your current SSD.

– Connect an external SSD and configure it as a Time Machine backup disk.
– Ensure that encryption is turned on for additional protection.
– Confirm that the backup is complete before moving forward.

### 2. Erase All Content and Settings (Optional)

If you intend to substitute the existing SSD, it may be wise to erase all content to prevent data conflicts.

– Navigate to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset → Erase All Content and Settings.
– Follow the prompts to finalize the process.

### 3. Install the New SSD

– **Power down** your Mac mini and unplug all cables.
– **Access the Mac mini** by carefully lifting off the bottom cover with the Jimmy tool and opening pick.
– Unscrew the inner plate using a T5 Torx driver and detach it.
– Remove the fan screws to access the SSD.
– Unscrew the existing SSD with a T8 Torx driver and replace it with the new 2TB SSD.
– Put the Mac mini back together by reversing the disassembly steps.

### 4. DFU Restore

Post installation of the new SSD, restoring macOS is necessary:

– Connect the Mac mini to another Mac via a USB-C cable.
– Enter DFU mode by pressing the power button while connecting the power cable.
– Use Finder on the second Mac to restore the Mac mini to its factory settings.

### 5. Migrate Your Data

Once macOS is restored, you can transfer your data back from the Time Machine backup:

– Link the Time Machine backup drive to the upgraded Mac mini.
– Follow the setup prompts during macOS installation to transfer your data.

### 6. Reassemble the Mac Mini

After verifying that everything functions correctly, reassemble the Mac mini by securing the inner plate and bottom cover.

## Final Thoughts

Upgrading your M4 Mac mini to a 2TB SSD has the potential to save you a considerable amount of money while boosting your computer’s performance. The entire process is relatively simple and can be achieved with basic tools and a bit of patience. With the proper setup, you can take advantage of augmented storage without overspending.

For more comprehensive guidance, including video tutorials, check out the resources offered on [9to5Mac’s YouTube channel](https://youtube.com/@9to5Mac?sub_confirmation=1). Would you consider upgrading your M4 Mac mini? Share your feedback in the comments section below!