iMac super slow HDD Read/Write speeds

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Level 1

9 points

iMac super slow HDD Read/Write speeds

Using Blackmagic Disk Speed Test on my 27" 2013 iMac, the Read/Write speeds that came out didn't go over 20 Mb/s. This makes the iMac basically unusable, as even Safari takes ages to open.

We've recently had many login issues, as after putting the password it wouldn't login. After contacting the support, we run the First Aid and it said "Macintosh HD is OK". We've then completely reset the iMac and reinstalled the latest macOS. This didn't fix anything, as it still takes forever to turn on and the Read/Write speeds are still not going over 20 Mb/s.

At this point I'm pretty sure all the recent problems we've had with the iMac were caused by the HDD. Do you think that replacing the 1TB HDD with a 1TB SSD could fix the problem? Or what other options do I have?

The iMac's Apple Care expired already and I've seen companies that would replace the HDD with a 1TB SSD for 499€ (circa 600$).

iMac, iOS 11.3.1, 2013 27"

Posted on May 4, 2018 3:58 AM

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Answer 1

den.thed

Level 10

91,582 points

May 4, 2018 10:56 AM in response to LucaJoakim

Pretty sure most everyone here will agree, that upgrading it to an SSD is the # 1 answer. I was simply suggesting a way to keep the iMac up and running until you can do or have that done.

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Answer 2

LucaJoakim Author

Level 1

9 points

May 4, 2018 10:34 AM in response to den.thed

I just tested my Internal Hard Drive using Smart Utility.

The results are here: https://imgur.com/a/vash3l5

As you can see, Macintosh HD is failing.

Some users recommended me to bring the iMac to Apple to get it checked and fixed, even if my warranty has already expired. What do you recommend?

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Answer 3

den.thed

Level 10

91,582 points

May 4, 2018 7:46 AM in response to LucaJoakim

Backup to an external drive using Time Machine and/or make a clone using CCC, SuperDuper or Disk Utility.

Format and install macOS on a USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt external drive (preferably one with an SSD).

Startup the macOS on the external drive, set it up, migrate to it, run from it for as long as you like.

That way you can continue running without interruption, plus it give you plenty time to evaluate and make decisions concerning your internal hard drive.

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iMac super slow HDD Read/Write speeds

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