Transferring SSD from macbook pro 2008 to macbook pro 2012

[gg23]

Hi,
I have a MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) with a 500GB SSD. I want to move the SSD to a MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2012).

Is this possible or will I have to go the long and laborious route of making an image of the drive etc etc.

Thanks
Greg

 

[Cory Cooper]

Hello and welcome.

It depends on the exact model of the 2012 MBP. If it is a Mid 2012, then it should fit. If it is a Retina, Mid 2012, it won't, as that model's drive is a different form factor (flash storage card). The Late 2008 and Mid 2012 MBPs use a 2.5" size drive enclosure, so it can be swapped. It is a little trickier to replace the drive in a 2012.

Also, the drive interface speeds are different:
Late 2008: 3.0 Gbps Serial ATA (SATA)
Mid 2012: 6.0 Gbps Serial ATA (SATA)

But, that doesn't affect compatibility, only read/write speeds.

-What size is the drive in the Mid 2012?
-What version of OS X/macOS in the 2008?
-Did you install the 500 GB SSD in the 2008 MBP?
-If so, what brand/model is it?

C

 

[gg23]

hi Cory
Thank you for your reply. The 2012 MBP IS Mid-2012, i.e.

MBP 15-inch "Core i7" 2.3 Mid-2012

-What size is the drive in the Mid 2012?
500GB

-What version of OS X/macOS in the 2008?
10.11.6

-Did you install the 500 GB SSD in the 2008 MBP?
Yes

-If so, what brand/model is it?
500GB OWC Mercury Electra 6G SSD

So from what you are telling me I can simply swap the drive from the 2008 MBP to the 2012 MBP, any resetting of firmware needed?

Thanks
Greg G

 

[Cory Cooper]

No worries.

Yes, if they are the same form-factor (2.5" SSD), then you can simply swap them out without any other steps. The 2012 is compatible with 10.11.6, so you're good to go there.

The cabling on the 2012 is slightly different, so be careful so you don't damage the ribbon cable, as it can be quite fragile.

C