Replacing the hard drive in an iMac is a task that is certainly not for everyone, since the highly compact assembly of these Apple computers makes it much more difficult to change than on any other computer.
But despite this, there may be situations in which replacing the hard drive of an iMac is useful, to the point that it seems necessary to be able to continue using the computer.
And for all of you who are in this situation, we have prepared this post in which we will explore the most common reasons for replacing the hard drive, what you need to take into account before doing so, and a step-by-step guide to make the change successfully. .
Why replace the hard drive in an iMac?
Before starting to “gut” the patient, I think it is worth reflecting on whether we are in a situation where the hard drive in your iMac needs to be replaced, or whether an alternative is worth it.
Lack of storage space
With continued use, it's easy to run out of storage capacity, especially if your iMac has an older, lower-capacity hard drive. Media files, apps, and other data can pile up quickly, leaving little room for new tasks or downloads.
But knowing that we also have USB or Thunderbolt ports where we can connect an external hard drive, if this is your only situation I wouldn't go through the trouble of changing the hard drive on your iMac.
To improve the performance of your computer or solve errors
If your iMac is running slower than before, the problem may be the hard drive, which is more acute on older iMacs, which use mechanical drives.
Mechanical hard drives (HDDs) are much slower than solid state drives (SSDs), so switching to an SSD can significantly speed up boot time, app opening, and overall system performance.
Additionally, hard drives can fail over time due to natural wear and tear, so if you find that your computer is making excessive noise, experiencing errors when accessing files, or even experiencing an inability to start the operating system, it may be time for a replacement. replace the hard drive.
Preparing for software updates
As operating systems and applications are updated, hardware requirements increase.
A faster or higher capacity hard drive may be necessary to keep your iMac running smoothly with the latest versions of macOS and other applications, especially if you come from a computer with a mechanical disc
Things to keep in mind before replacing the hard drive in an iMac
Before proceeding with an iMac hard drive replacement, there are several key factors to consider.
Guarantee of your equipment
If your iMac is still under warranty, replacing the hard drive could void it. It is important to check the conditions of your warranty before making any changes to the hardware and if you still want to do so during the warranty period, It is better to get a quote at an Apple Store even if you pay a little more, since out-of-warranty iMac breakdowns are expensive.
Compatibility: look carefully at what you buy
Not all hard drives or SSDs are compatible with all iMac models, as There are different types of hard drives in several different formats.
Research the right drive for your specific model, paying attention to factors such as physical size, capacity, and the type of connector you should use depending on your model. To find out, you have the iFixit guides, which are wonderful.
Data backup
Before removing your old hard drive, it is crucial to take a complete backup of all your data. You can use Time Machine, macOS' built-in backup tool, or clone the disk to an external drive.
Technical experience
Although you don't need to be a tech expert to perform this process, It does require a certain degree of skill and confidence when handling delicate internal components. If you feel uncomfortable, consider going to a professional because the process itself is quite delicate, especially when disassembling the screen.
Tools needed
In order to change the hard drive of an iMac, there are certain tools that you will have to have. You have most of them in this Amazon Kit
- A precision Torx screwdriver (T8 and T10).
- Screen Suction Tool
- Heat gun or a heater like the iFixit iOpener
- A plastic spudger to help separate the screen from the body of the iMac, or a watch opener.
- The new compatible hard drive or SSD.
- A soft cloth to avoid scratching the screen.
How to replace the hard drive of an iMac: Step by step
Removing the screen: the most complicated part
The process begins with removing the screen, which is attached to the body of the iMac with a special adhesive, which can be removed orusing isopropyl alcohol or preheating with a low temperature heat gun or the iOpener.
Once the glue is loose, use the suction tool to gently lift the screen from the top corners. Once you've created a small opening, use the plastic spudger to carefully separate the screen from the rest of the iMac, making sure not to damage the connection cables behind the screen.
When you have the screen free of its adhesive, carefully disconnect the video and power cables that connect it to the iMac logic board, so you will have access to the motherboard.
Changing the old hard drive on your iMac
With the screen removed, The next step is to locate the hard drive. In older iMacs, the hard drive is usually located in the central part of the computer, fixed with screws and connected to the logic board via SATA cables, and in the new ones you will have it in the M2 connector of the SSD.
To disassemble it, you have to use the Torx screwdriver to remove the screws that secure the hard drive in place and then carefully disconnect the data and power cables from the old hard drive. Once this is done, you can remove the old hard drive and plug in the other one in its place.
Reassemble the iMac
Once the new hard drive is installed, You will have to connect the screen cables to the iMac, all with great care since the connectors are delicate and can be easily damaged.
To finish everything, simply align the screen with the body of the iMac and press gently so that the adhesive seals the screen back in place, although it isYou may need to apply new adhesive if the original does not adhere properly. We advise you the T-8000 q epoxy based adhesiveIt is used in mobile phone repair, which has a drying time of 1 hour.
Reinstall the operating system and recover your copy of TimeMachine
With everything back together, plug the iMac into power and turn it on. Since the new hard drive or SSD will be empty, you will need to reinstall macOS, and for this you can rely on this other guide that we have prepared in the past.
If you have the copy made from Time Machine, now is the time to use it to restore it and now you will have your iMac working again with the new hard drive.
Follow the on-screen instructions to install macOS and, if you previously made a backup, you can restore your data from Time Machine and enjoy a restored computer that will surely have gained a lot in performance.