Buzz
After installing a third-party SSD and ensuring it boots correctly on a Mac, you can activate TRIM to improve performance.
While Windows 7 and later versions support TRIM for all SSDs, Mac initially limited TRIM to Apple-branded SSDs only. Upgrading your Mac with a third-party SSD without TRIM could decrease its efficiency.
Before OS X 10.10.4, enabling TRIM on Mac OS required disabling certain security features. Apple later introduced a method to activate TRIM for third-party SSDs using a simple terminal command.
What does TRIM do for SSDs?
SSDs store and delete data differently, using flash memory to retain information even when powered off. Unlike HDDs, which write data anywhere on their platters, SSDs must write new data to empty blocks, slowing down as the drive fills up due to fewer available blocks, necessitating overwrites.
TRIM helps macOS identify and erase blocks of data that are no longer in use, allowing new data to be written to empty blocks rather than overwriting existing data. This speeds up writing processes and extends the SSD's lifespan.
Activate TRIM for Third-Party SSDs on Mac
Note: Ensure your data is backed up before proceeding to prevent data loss.
With OS X 10.10.4, Mac introduced the trimforce command, enabling TRIM for third-party SSDs.
Step 1: Open Terminal. You can do this by typing 'terminal' in the Spotlight search box or navigating through Applications => Utilities => Terminal.
In the Terminal window, execute the following command and press Return:
sudo trimforce enable
Enter your Admin password when prompted. Ignore the warning message about potential data loss and other risks, press Y to proceed with enabling trimforce or N to cancel.
Confirm your choice, and your Mac will restart. Once it boots up again, TRIM will be activated for all connected SSDs.
Disabling TRIM
If you need to disable TRIM for any reason, enter the following command in the Terminal window:
sudo trimforce disable
Your Mac will restart and TRIM will be disabled.
Follow these simple steps to enable TRIM on third-party SSDs for Mac, enhancing speed and extending disk life.
With the variety of SSD brands available, choosing the right one can be challenging for the inexperienced. Consider reading our guide on selecting SSDs to broaden your knowledge.
