SSDs for MacBook Pro
I'm looking for either an Apple SSD or a generic brand with 500 GB storage. Currently using Apple SSD #SM256E. (not SATA)
Using (late) 2012 MBP with retina view
MacBook Pro 15″, macOS 10.15
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Apple Retina laptops use a proprietary PCIe SSD connector so the standard M.2 SSDs in the stores will not work without using a third party adapter. The only adapter I have seen recommended is from Sintech. Also know that Apple has many slightly different variations in their proprietary PCIe SSD connector so you need to make sure to get the correct adapter for your exact model laptop. Keep in mind neither the SSD manufacturer or Apple will provide any support using this configuration. You are completely on your own if you encounter any issues. Good luck getting a warranty replacement if the SSD has issues.
OWC sells a direct drop in replacement SSD that requires no adapter and is fully supported by OWC.
Keep in mind that you must already have installed macOS 10.13+ on this laptop before installing a third party NVMe SSD because the laptop needs a firmware update before it will physically recognize an NVMe SSD. Plus you can only install macOS 10.13+ on the NVMe SSD because only macOS 10.13+ has the necessary NVMe driver.