How to Upgrade Storage in Your Classic MG-1 Amethyst
By MAINGEAR | High-performance custom PCs | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to add an SSD or upgrade storage in your MAINGEAR Classic MG-1 Amethyst pre-configured PC. Follow our step-by-step guide for a smooth upgrade.
Quick Answer
Upgrading storage in your Classic MG-1 Amethyst is straightforward. You can add a second M.2 NVMe SSD or swap the existing drive for a larger capacity. Follow these steps for a smooth upgrade.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
The Classic MG-1 Amethyst is built for advanced performance and customization. Its motherboard supports multiple M.2 NVMe slots, making storage upgrades easy. Check your system's current storage configuration to determine if you are adding a new drive or replacing an existing one.
Back up all important data before proceeding. Upgrading storage involves handling sensitive components, so work in a clean, static-free environment.
Choosing the Right Drive
The MG-1 Amethyst pairs well with high-speed NVMe SSDs for gaming and creative workloads. Look for a drive that matches your performance needs and budget. Gen4 NVMe drives offer excellent speeds for loading games and transferring large files.
Step-by-Step Storage Upgrade Guide
- 1. Prepare Your Workspace and Tools: Shut down your PC, unplug all cables, and place the case on a clean, hard surface. You will need a Phillips-head screwdriver (usually #2) and an anti-static wrist strap if available. Remove the side panel by unscrewing the thumbscrews at the back. Common mistake: Forgetting to ground yourself. Touch a metal part of the case before handling components to avoid static discharge.
- 2. Locate the M.2 Slot: Inside the case, locate the motherboard's M.2 slots. They are typically found near the CPU or under a metal heatsink. If you are adding a second drive, identify an empty slot. If replacing the existing drive, carefully remove it by unscrewing the retention screw and lifting the drive at a 30-degree angle. Check your motherboard manual to confirm slot compatibility (PCIe Gen3 vs Gen4) and whether the slot supports your new drive's length (usually 2280).
- 3. Install the New M.2 SSD: Align the notch on the M.2 drive with the key in the slot. Insert the drive at a 30-degree angle, then press down gently and secure it with the retention screw. Do not overtighten. If a heatsink is present, peel off the protective film from the thermal pad before attaching it. Common mistake: Forcing the drive. If it does not seat easily, check alignment. Never use excessive force.
- 4. Reassemble and Boot Up: Replace the side panel, reconnect all cables, and power on the PC. Enter the BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing Del or F2 during startup) to verify the new drive is detected. If it does not appear, reseat the drive or check the BIOS settings for M.2 detection. If the drive is detected but not bootable, you may need to format it in your operating system using Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (macOS).
- 5. Initialize and Format the Drive: Once booted into Windows, open Disk Management. The new drive will appear as unallocated space. Right-click it, select 'New Simple Volume', and follow the wizard to format it as NTFS. Assign a drive letter and give it a name. The drive is now ready for use. Common mistake: Forgetting to initialize the drive. If it does not show up in File Explorer, check Disk Management first.
Product Facts
- Classic MG-1 | Amethyst: The Classic MG-1 Amethyst is crafted for advanced performance, unlimited customization, and understated simplicity. It pairs well with 1440p and 4K gaming monitors. This means your system can handle high-resolution gaming, and a storage upgrade ensures faster load times for those demanding titles.

Classic MG-1 | Amethyst
