Mac Studio keeps swappable SSD while new Mac mini loses upgrade option

The new Mac mini with M5 Pro and M6 has its NAND storage soldered to the logic board again, while the Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra retains slotted SSD modules. Apple's repair documentation allows SSD replacement on the Mac Studio, but modules are model-specific and serialized to match a particular connector.

• Mac mini with M5 Pro and M6 drops the removable SSD — NAND is soldered again
• Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra keeps two SSD module slots
• SSD modules are model-specific and differ by serial number
• The SSD controller sits in Apple Silicon, so standard M.2 drives won't work