How to Replace iMac Hard Drive with an SSD

Upgrading your iMac to an SSD can significantly speed up its performance. If you have a mid-2011 iMac, you can replace its hard drive with an SSD by following these easy steps.

First, start by putting one suction cup on the left corner of the glass and one on the right corner of the glass. With both hands, pull on both suction cups and pull the glass out and up. Next, you’ll need some needle-nose pliers and a 6 pin screwdriver to unscrew the four screws on the left side of the LCD and the four on the right. Be as careful as possible not to touch the LCD, and consider wearing gloves to prevent handprints.

To remove the LCD, lean it back so it doesn’t fall out. There are two cables on the left side of the LCD and two on the right. Unplug each cable carefully. Unscrew the two screws for the hard drive and disconnect the SATA and power connectors from the hard drive to remove it.

Now it’s time to install the SSD. If you have a 2.5-inch SSD, you don’t necessarily need a three and a half inch adapter. You can double-side tape it to the logo on the iMac. If you did buy one, it screws into the screws that the three and a half inch hard drive came out of.

If you’re using the tape idea, get your tape undone and stick it down where you want it. Make sure it’s solidly stuck and apply pressure to make sure it sticks well. Lay your iMac down to install the LCD and plug in the four cables.

Double-check all the connections and screw in the four screws on both sides of the LCD. Watch out for the magnets and use needle-nose pliers to keep screws from sticking to them. Once you’re done screwing on the LCD, grab the glass and slide it in the bottom. It is magnetic at the top, so it will pop on at the top. Pull your suction cups off and you are good to go.

All that’s left is to install Mac OS on your iMac, and you’re good to go. If you have any questions or comments, leave them down below. Enjoy your newly upgraded iMac!