The MacBook Air M1 is one of the most powerful and efficient laptops on the market, thanks to Apple's own M1 chip that combines the CPU, GPU, and RAM on a single chip. However, this also means that the RAM and storage are not user-upgradable, unlike some previous models of MacBook Air that had removable SSDs. If you want to increase the memory or storage capacity of your MacBook Air M1, you have two options: either buy a new model with higher specs, or attempt a risky DIY upgrade that will void your warranty and may damage your device.
Buy a new model with higher specs
This is the easiest and safest option, but also the most expensive. Apple offers two configurations of the MacBook Air M1: one with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, and one with 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. You can also customize your order to get up to 16GB of RAM and up to 2TB of storage, but this will increase the price significantly. For example, upgrading from 8GB to 16GB of RAM will cost you an extra $200, and upgrading from 256GB to 2TB of storage will cost you an extra $800.
Attempt a risky DIY upgrade
This option is not recommended by Apple or by us, but it is technically possible to upgrade the RAM and storage on the MacBook Air M1 by yourself. However, this requires advanced skills, specialized tools, and compatible components that are hard to find. It also involves removing the soldered-on chips from the logic board and replacing them with new ones, which can easily damage your device or render it unusable. This option will also void your warranty and make you ineligible for any future repairs or service from Apple.
The process of upgrading the RAM and storage on the MacBook Air M1 was demonstrated by technicians in Guangzhou, China, who posted their results on social media. They claimed to have successfully upgraded a MacBook Air with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage to one with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. They also showed screenshots of macOS recognizing the new components as if they were official. However, they did not provide any details on how they performed the upgrade, what tools they used, where they got the components from, or how long it took them.
Some websites have reported on this DIY upgrade, but none of them have verified its authenticity or feasibility. They have also warned potential users about the risks and challenges involved in this option. Some of these are:
- Finding compatible RAM and SSD chips that match or exceed Apple's specifications
- Removing the original chips without damaging the logic board or other components
- Soldering the new chips onto the logic board without causing any short circuits or overheating.
- Reassembling the device without breaking any connectors or cables.
- Booting up the device and hoping that it works as expected.
- Dealing with any potential issues or errors that may arise from using unofficial hardware
As you can see, this option is not for the faint-hearted or inexperienced. It is also likely to cost you more than buying a new model with higher specs, considering the price and availability of the components, tools, and labor involved. Furthermore, you will lose any warranty or support from Apple, and risk bricking your device or compromising its performance or security.
Conclusion
The MacBook Air M1 is an amazing laptop that offers great performance and efficiency for most users. However, if you need more RAM or storage than what it comes with, you have two options: buy a new model with higher specs, or attempt a risky DIY upgrade. We strongly recommend the first option, as it is easier, safer, and more reliable than the second one. The second option is only for those who are willing to take a huge gamble with their device and their money, and who have the skills and resources to pull it off. Either way, you should carefully weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.