M1 Macs and the SSD issue (March 2022)

Remember SSD SwapGate ?

Turns out, the hysteria around it was exaggerated, Apple addressed the issue in a later update to Big Sur.

For reference, I’ve been using this MacBook Air M1 for over a year now, I’ve basically transferred all of my Development workflow onto it and these are my stats:

When inspecting my workflow, you’ll see that I’m maxing out the memory (16GB) on a daily basis, but for the moment, it does not result in any excessive wear to the SSD.

Although I wouldn’t recommend less than 16GB for Software Development, I get by just fine, for now.

As for performance, the M1 packs more than enough horsepower for my daily workloads, so I’m not too worried.

Eagerly waiting for that M2, though… 🤪🤩

In closing

Earlier this year, Hector Martin pointed out that, essentially, the “data” that is supposed to be on disk is kept in memory for longer than expected. Meaning, MacOs can cheat its way into performing faster than other systems. So if your device would be to lose power, even when idle, it could result in data loss.

This isn’t an issue for MacBooks persé, but it sure makes you wonder about the iMac and Mac mini and even, the new Mac Studio Desktop.

While I’m sure Apple will address these issues at some point in the future, it seems consumers need to be wary of this situation.