How Much Space is Left on a MacBook Pro SSD After Initial Setup?
When you first set up your MacBook Pro, the available space on the SSD can vary based on the initial setup and macOS version. This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the free space you can expect after initial setup for both 128GB and 256GB SSD models.
Initial Setup Space Used
During the initial setup, macOS and pre-installed apps typically occupy a certain amount of storage. For both 128GB and 256GB SSD models, generally around 15-20GB of storage is used.
Free Space After Setup
Here are the estimated free space after setup:
128GB SSD: Approximately 108-113GB of free space. 256GB SSD: Around 236-241GB of free space.Keep in mind that these estimates can vary depending on the specific configuration and any additional software that may come pre-installed.
Additional Considerations
For a more precise estimation, let's break down the space usage after the initial setup:
128GB Model: Default macOS High Sierra installation: ~26GB. Swap usage: 8GB. Free Space: 128GB - (26GB 8GB) 94GB. 256GB Model: Default macOS High Sierra installation: ~26GB. Swap usage: 8GB. Free Space: 256GB - (26GB 8GB) 222GB.Optimal Storage Recommendations
While some may opt for the 128GB or 256GB models, it's important to consider the long-term experience and performance of your device. Smaller drives can lead to a degraded experience over time, especially with modern applications and requirements.
Recommended: A 256GB SSD is a better choice for most users. If possible, a 1TB M.2 SSD would be ideal for maximum performance and storage.
Personal Experience and Recommendations
Based on my experience with a MacBook Pro 2016 with a 128GB SSD, I often need to carry an external USB drive for virtual machines, large programs, and backups. Even for 256GB, it's recommended to have additional storage for similar needs.
128GB Model: Typically around 110-112GB of free space, but exact numbers can vary based on your specific settings and additional software.
256GB Model: Approximately 220-241GB of free space, with similar variations.
Conclusion
While the initial setup leaves you with a reasonable amount of storage space, it's crucial to consider the long-term needs of your device. Opting for a larger SSD, such as a 256GB or 1TB, can significantly enhance your user experience and ensure smoother performance for years to come.