If you had to picture an Apple computer that was modular, had user replaceable parts, and
was easy to disassemble what would it look like?
OR maybe the question should be how much would it cost?
Well, it turns out it cost around 6000 dollars to start and it looks like, well a really
beautiful computer, This is the 2019 Mac Pro.
What’s the point of tearing down a machine that is made to be disassembled?
Well, let’s find out!
Opening the device couldn’t be easier and only requires the turning of a latch.
With a very satisfying turn the heavy outer case slides up and off.
With the beautifully stylish interior exposed we spot modules that when popped up reveal
Standard and removable RAM, and not only that, Apple even gave us a handy diagram on the
insides of the RAM covers, showing which DIMM slots to populate with different amounts of
memory.
All of the internal IO boards are held in place by Phillips head thumb screws and can
be loosened (and tightened) by hand and The PCIe slots are all unlocked with a single
switch.
The SSD is found underneath the fan housing and comes out without struggle.
The bad news here is that it is bound to the T2 security chip and cannot be user replaced.
The massive fan array comes out in one piece, leaving us with a giant logic board that has
a socketed CPU which could theoretically be upgraded or replaced later on.
All in all, this machine is pretty much like any tower computer which means it’s the
most repairable Mac we’ve seen since 2006!
With all this in mind, we are happy to report one of the highest scores an Apple device
has ever received a 9 out of 10 on our repairability scale, and here’s why.
On the upside
The opening procedure couldn’t be easier.
Basic repairs and upgrades can be performed with standard tools or even no tools at all.
Major components are highly modular and use industry-standard sockets and interfaces,
making replacements and upgrades a snap.
Apple provides some step numbers and diagrams right on the device, and publishes free repair
manuals for some repairs to help you get it right.
The SSDs cards are modular, but custom-made by Apple, complicating replacement.
But on the downside If you need a replacement part that’s not
on Apple’s limited list of approved repairs, you’ll likely pay a dizzying price—if
you can find them at all.