Is it worth removing the optical drive to make the computer lighter?

[rocknpop]

This is probably a personal preference, but thought I would ask it.

I have an i7 2011 MBP that I plan to use solely to work on music production (Live 9) on the road. I carry my work computer already (a Dell 13 inch) and my iPad Pro. I want my bag to be as light as possible.

Question is - is it worth removing the optical drive to make the MBP lighter? (Yes, I am handy and have the tools)

 

[Raz0rEdge]

The optical drive will have no noticeable difference in the weight. The heavy components of the MBP are the batteries, LCD, logicboard and things that you can't remove.

 

[ferrarr]

The internal hd is heavier than the optical drive. Change it out for an SSD.

 

[pigoo3]

Question is - is it worth removing the optical drive to make the MBP lighter? (Yes, I am handy and have the tools)

As others have mentioned...removing the optical drive probably won't be that noticeable from a weight perspective. If you find you don't need the optical drive...you could move the current HD to the optical drive bay...and install an SSD where the internal HD currently is (usually for most folks...more storage is better).

Or you could do a combination of removing the optical drive...and replacing the current HD for an SSD...leave the optical drive bay empty...resulting in a little additional weight removed beyond just the optical drive.

- Nick

 

[rocknpop]

The optical drive will have no noticeable difference in the weight. The heavy components of the MBP are the batteries, LCD, logicboard and things that you can't remove.

Thank you, this is good information.

The internal hd is heavier than the optical drive. Change it out for an SSD.

I forgot to mention, I di this. I have an SSD in it.

As others have mentioned...removing the optical drive probably won't be that noticeable from a weight perspective. If you find you don't need the optical drive...you could move the current HD to the optical drive bay...and install an SSD where the internal HD currently is (usually for most folks...more storage is better).

Or you could do a combination of removing the optical drive...and replacing the current HD for an SSD...leave the optical drive bay empty...resulting in a little additional weight removed beyond just the optical drive.

- Nick

Thanks! I have an SSD

 

[mrkramer]

I don't think it would be worth the hassle for minimal savings on weight. If you are that concerned about weight you are probably better off saving for a newer computer that will be much lighter to begin with.

 

[pm-r]

Question is - is it worth removing the optical drive to make the MBP lighter?

FYI: For a 8X 9.5mm Internal DVD/CD Writer:
Weight (typical)0.16kg (0.35lbs.)

Not exactly a big weight gain I'd say.




- Patrick
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