How to recover data, files, pictures & videos from your old broken Apple MacBook Pro Air computer

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to recover data, files, pictures, and videos from a broken Apple MacBook Pro or Air. This guide will walk you through the process of accessing the internal storage of your malfunctioning device and retrieving your important data using specific adapters.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools

Before you begin the recovery process, ensure you have the following items:

• SATA to USB adapter: For traditional hard drives and SSDs.
• M.2/NVMe to USB adapter: For newer SSD types.
• Screwdriver set: To open your MacBook and remove the drive.
• External storage device: To transfer and save your recovered files.

You can find these adapters on Amazon:

• SATA to USB Adapter
• M.2/NVMe to USB Adapter

Step 2: Identify the Type of Storage

Determine whether your MacBook contains a traditional HDD, a SATA SSD, or an M.2/NVMe SSD. This will dictate which adapter you will need.

• HDD/SATA SSD: Use the SATA to USB adapter.
• M.2/NVMe SSD: Use the M.2/NVMe to USB adapter.

Step 3: Open Your MacBook

Carefully open your MacBook using the screwdriver set. Follow these steps:

1. Power off your MacBook completely.
2. Remove the screws from the bottom case using the appropriate screwdriver.
3. Lift off the bottom case gently.

Step 4: Remove the Storage Drive

Locate the storage drive inside your MacBook and carefully disconnect it:

1. Identify the hard drive or SSD.
2. Unscrew and disconnect the drive from the motherboard.
3. Carefully remove it from the slot.

Step 5: Connect the Drive to the Adapter

Once you have the drive removed, connect it to the appropriate adapter:

• For HDDs or SATA SSDs, plug it into the SATA to USB adapter.
• For M.2/NVMe SSDs, connect it to the M.2/NVMe to USB adapter.

Step 6: Access Your Data

Now that your drive is connected to the adapter, plug it into a working computer:

1. The drive should be recognized by the operating system.
2. Open the file explorer or finder to access the files.
3. Copy your important data, files, pictures, and videos to an external storage device.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Be gentle when removing the drive to avoid causing further damage.
• Ensure you are using the correct adapter for your specific drive type.
• Double-check that the drive is properly connected to the adapter before plugging it into the computer.

Conclusion

Recovering data from a broken MacBook is a manageable process if you follow these steps carefully. By using the right tools and methods, you can successfully retrieve your important files. If you encounter any issues, consider seeking help from a professional data recovery service. Remember to back up your files regularly in the future to prevent data loss.