For a 2014 Mac Mini upgrade, which specific SSD types/models (SATA, PCIe, or proprietary) are currently compatible and available to purchase? I’m looking to replace the original storage, but I’m unsure if standard 2.5” SATA SSDs (e.g., Samsung, Crucial) work for all models or if I need Apple-specific SSDs/adapters (like OWC or NVMe + Sintech). Any recommendations for confirmed working drives in 2025?
Mac mini, macOS 12.7
The 2014 Mini has a standard 2.5" SATA drive. The Crucial MX500 is a popular SSD SATA drive replacement, but if you need tools it may be more convenient to order one of OWC's tool+SSD bundles.
Some 2014 Mini's (those that originally had either a fusion drive or an OEM Apple SSD) also have a faster blade socket that uses a custom Apple 12+16pin connector. The original Apple SSDs were AHCI drives, but there was a firmware update (High Sierra or newer) to support NVMe drives. OWC is the top recommendation since they sells NVMe drives with an Apple-style connector, offer SSD+tool bundles, and have Mac specific customer support if a user needs help. However most M.2 2280 drives will work if you have an M.2 to 12+16pin adapter. I use a Crucial P2 with a JESOT branded adapter in my 2015 MBA. The newer Crucial P3 is also a known-working drive and Sintech is also known for quality adapters.
[EDIT – I accidentally looked up the wrong model year at first.]
Other World Computing – OWC Solid State Drives For Mac mini (Late 2014)
@padams35 is correct.
If you decide to go with a 2.5" SATA SSD, then the Crucial MX500 series is a good option. The OWC Mercury Extreme 6G is also another option. Avoid the Crucial BX500 series since it is absolute junk. I would also avoid the OWC Mercury Electra 6G SSD as well since I didn't care for the last one I encountered....the Extreme version is a higher quality SSD and should be better although I have never used it.
If you decide to go for a blade style SSD, then the OWC Aura SSD is the easiest option since it has the same proprietary connector that Apple OEM SSDs use so it is a drop in replacement. Plus if your Mini did not ship with the blade style SSD, then you will also need a flex cable to attach the SSD as well as a mounting bracket. If you wish to go with an M.2 style blade SSD, then you also need to use a third party SSD adapter.....Sintech is the best option since I have never seen anyone have any complaints about it, but I have seen people report issues with nearly every other adapter.
WWW.Macsales.com
IF any are available, that is where you would find them.
Replacing SSD MAC MINI 2014
