MacBook Pro Memory for Model 7.1: MacBook Pro Mid 2010 DDR3-1066Mhz. The original series 'Unibody' MacBook Pro runs DDR3-1066 memory. The 13-inch MacBook Pro Model ID 7,1 has a 8GB max out of the box. MacBook Pro Memory for Models 5.1 through 6.2: MacBook Pro Late 2008, Early 2009, Mid 2009, Mid 2010 DDR3-1066Mhz. The original series. Adding storage to a MacBook Pro Since diving into the world of hi res digital downloads, I have used my MacBook Pro, circa 2015, to store my music. Getting very low on storage space. Note that the images from this article are from a 15 inch (38.1 cm) 2.5 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo MacBook Pro, but the steps are general to many other Mac laptops. Note that recent MacBook Pros do not have removable memory that you can upgrade. These steps do not apply to retina display MacBook Pros manufactured after 2012.
To identify your MacBook Pro model, use the information in How to identify MacBook Pro models.
Once you're sure which model you have, find it in the list below to go to the instructions for that model. Note: Apple notebooks not listed in this table have non-removable memory.
13-inch | MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2012) MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2011) MacBook Pro (13-inch, Early 2011) MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2010) MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2009) |
15-inch | MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012) MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2011) MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2011) MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2010) MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2.53GHz, Mid 2009) MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2009) MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2008) and earlier |
17-inch | MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2011) MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2011) MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2009) MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2008) and earlier |
Applicable Models
The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro (13-inch) models:
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2012)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2011)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Early 2011)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2010)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2009)
Memory specifications
Use the tables below to confirm the memory you're installing is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
MacBook Pro (13-inch, mid 2012) | |
Number of memory slots | 2 |
Base memory | 4 GB |
Maximum memory | 8 GB |
Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 67.6mm x 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-12800 DDR3 1600 MHz type RAM |
Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2011) and MacBook Pro (13-inch, Early 2011) | |
Number of memory slots | 2 |
Base memory | 4 GB |
Maximum memory | 8 GB |
Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 67.6mm x 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-10600 DDR3 1333 MHz type RAM |
Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2010) and MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2009) | |
Number of memory slots | 2 |
Base memory | 4 GB |
Maximum memory | 8 GB |
Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format -30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM |
Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
Add Extra Storage To Macbook Pro
Removing or installing memory
Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.
Step 1: Remove the bottom case
- Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, USB cables, security lock, and any other cables connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
- Turn over your MacBook Pro and remove the ten (10) screws that secure the bottom case. Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place. Lift off the case and place it to the side.
- Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)
- Push the levers on the sides of the memory module in an outward direction to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you don’t, try pressing the levers outward again.
- Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
- Remove the other memory module.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the gold connectors.
Step 3: Install memory
- Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
- Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
- Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
- Repeat this procedure to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.
Note: Make sure you install the memory according to this illustration, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.
Step 4: Replace the bottom case
Replace the bottom case. Replace and tighten the ten screws you removed earlier, making sure to put the different length screws in their proper locations.
Applicable Models
The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 15-inch models:
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2011)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2011)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2010)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2.53GHz Mid 2009)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2009)
Memory specifications
Please use the tables below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012) | |
Number of memory slots | 2 |
Base memory | 4 GB |
Maximum memory | 8 GB |
Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-12800 DDR3 1600 MHz type RAM |
Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2011) and MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2011) | |
Number of memory slots | 2 |
Base memory | 4 GB |
Maximum memory | 8 GB |
Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-10600 DDR3 1333 MHz type RAM |
Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2010), MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2.53GHz Mid 2009), MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2009) | |
Number of memory slots | 2 |
Base memory | 4 GB |
Maximum memory | 8 GB |
Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM |
Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
Removing or installing memory
Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.
Step 1: Remove the bottom case
- Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, USB cables, security lock, and any other cables connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
- Turn over your MacBook Pro and remove the ten (10) screws that secure the bottom case. Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place. Lift off the case and place it to the side.
- Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)
- Push the levers on the sides of the memory module in an outward direction to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you don’t, try pressing the levers outward again.
- Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
- Remove the other memory module.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the gold connectors.
Step 3: Install memory
- Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
- Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
- Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
- Repeat this procedure to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.Note: Make sure you install the memory according to this illustration, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.
Step 4: Replace the bottom case
Replace and tighten the ten screws you removed earlier, making sure to put the different length screws in their proper locations.
Applicable model
The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 15-inch models:
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008)
Memory specifications
Please use the table below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, late 2008) | |
Number of memory slots | 2 |
Base memory | 2 GB |
Maximum memory | 4 GB |
Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 1 GB or 2 GB - 204-pin - PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM |
Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots and install an identical memory module in each slot. |
Removing or installing memory
Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.
Step 1: Remove the access door
- Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, security lock, and any other cords connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
- Turn over your MacBook Pro and locate the latch. Push down to release the latch and remove the access door that covers the battery and hard drive.
- The latch must be in its released, open position to remove the access door.
Step 2: Remove the battery
With the latch still in its open position, gently pull up on the tab to remove the battery.
Step 3: Remove the bottom case
- Remove the eight screws that secure the bottom case of your MacBook Pro, and then remove the bottom case.
Important: Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place. - Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Step 4: Remove existing memory (if present)
- Push out the ejection levers on the sides of the memory module to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you don’t, try pressing the ejection levers again.
- Hold the memory module by the notches and remove it from the slot.
- Remove the other memory module.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.
Step 5: Install memory
- Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
- Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
- Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
- Repeat, if necessary, to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.
Note: Make sure you install the memory according to the illustration below, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.
Step 6: Replace the bottom case
Replace the bottom case. Replace and tighten the eight screws.
Step 7: Replace the battery
To replace the battery, make sure the latch is in its open position. Hold the battery at an angle and slide the lipped edge of the battery below the brackets on the outside edge of the battery bay. Gently press the battery down.
Step 8: Replace the access door
With the latch in the open position replace the access door, making sure it is level with the bottom case of your MacBook Pro, and press the latch into the closed position.
Applicable models
The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 17-inch models:
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2011)
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2011)
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010)
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2009)
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009)
Memory specifications
Use the tables below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2011) and MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2011) | |
Number of memory slots | 2 |
Base memory | 4 GB |
Maximum memory | 8 GB |
Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 67.6mm x 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-10600 DDR3 1333 MHz type RAM |
Additional notes | You can add two 4 GB memory modules for a maximum of 8 GB of memory. For best performance, fill both memory slots and install an identical memory module in each slot. |
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010), MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2009), and MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) | |
Number of memory slots | 2 |
Base memory | 4 GB |
Maximum memory | 8 GB |
Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM |
Additional notes | You can add two 4 GB memory modules for a maximum of 8 GB of memory. For best performance, fill both memory slots and install an identical memory module in each slot. |
Removing or installing memory
Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.
Step 1: Remove the bottom case
- Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, USB cables, security lock, and any other cables connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
- Turn over your MacBook Pro and remove the ten (10) screws that secure the bottom case. Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place. Lift off the case and place it to the side.
- Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)
- Push the levers on the sides of the memory module in an outward direction to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you can't find the notches, try pressing the levers outward again.
- Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
- Remove the other memory module.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.
Step 3: Install memory
- Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
- Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
- Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
- Repeat this procedure to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.
Note: Make sure your memory is installed according to the illustration below, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.
Step 4: Replace the bottom case
Replace the bottom case. Replace and tighten the ten screws you removed earlier, making sure to put the different length screws in their proper locations.
Applicable models
The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 15-inch and 17-inch models:
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2008) and earlier
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2008) and earlier
Memory specifications
Please use the tables below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2008) and earlier and MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2008) and earlier | |
Number of memory slots | 2 |
Base memory | 512 MB (configure to order) |
Maximum memory | Refer to the table below |
Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 200-pin - PC2-5300 DDR2 667 MHz Type RAM |
Refer to this table for the maximum amount of memory that can be recognized by these notebook computers:
2 GB | MacBook Pro, MacBook Pro (17-inch), MacBook Pro (15-inch, Glossy) |
3 GB | MacBook Pro (15-inch and 17-inch Core 2 Duo) Note: These models will support only 3 GB total memory. If you want to maximize the amount of SDRAM in your computer, install a 2 GB SO-DIMM in one slot and a 1GB SO-DIMM in the other. |
4 GB | MacBook Pro (15-inch 2.4/2.2 GHz), MacBook Pro (17-inch 2.4 GHz), MacBook Pro (15-inch Early 2008), MacBook Pro (17-inch Late 2008) |
Removing or installing memory
You will need to remove the battery before installing additional memory and reinstall the battery after installing the memory. The following procedure includes all the necessary instructions for both parts of the process.
Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.
Step 1: Remove the battery
- Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, and any other cords connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
- Turn the computer over.
- Locate the battery release latches on each side of the battery.
- Slide both latches up. The battery should pop up slightly.
- Lift the battery out.
Step 2: Remove the memory door
- Using a Phillips size 00 screwdriver, unscrew the memory door and remove it from the battery bay of your computer. Depending on the model of your MacBook Pro, you may have three or four screws.
- Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Step 3: Remove existing memory (if present)
If you need to remove a memory card—for example if you are replacing it or if you need to get past the memory in the top slot to access the bottom slot—you can remove the card by spreading the tabs on each side of the card away from the notches in the memory card. The card should pop up slightly. Lift the memory card to about a 25-degree angle and then gently slide the card out of the memory slot.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.
Step 4: Install memory
- Insert the new memory card at a 25-degree angle. Line up the notch in the card with the small tab in the memory slot and slide the card into the slot until the gold edge is almost invisible. Firmly press the memory card into the memory slot. You might feel some resistance.
- Gently spread the small tabs in the memory slot away from the notches and push the memory card down until the two tabs on either side of the card lock into place.
- Insert any additional memory into the second slot.
Note: Make sure you install the memory according to the illustration below, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.
Step 5: Replace the memory door
Replace the memory door, and make sure the door is lying flat before you screw it back into place.
Step 6: To insert the battery
- Place the bottom edge of the battery into the battery compartment at an angle, as shown below.
- Gently press the top edge of the battery down until the battery latch locks into place.
Learn more
Checking that your computer recognizes the new memory
After installing additional memory, you should confirm that the computer recognizes the new memory. To check the computer’s memory:
- Start up your computer.
- When you see the Mac OS X desktop, choose the Apple () menu from the upper-left menu bar, then choose About This Mac.
Add Storage To Macbook Pro 2019
The total memory includes the amount of memory that originally came with the computer plus the new memory you added, or if all the memory has been replaced, the new total for that memory. For detailed information about the amount of memory installed in your computer, open System Profiler by choosing Apple () and then About This Mac. Then, click More Info and then Memory from the Hardware section that appears in System Profiler.
If your computer doesn’t recognize the memory or doesn’t start up correctly, confirm that the memory you installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro and that it is installed correctly by reseating the memory.
Ever since computers have been around, RAM (or Random Access Memory) has been the one defining factor associated with loading performance and your computer's ability to quickly access information or display the desired output.
Today we will talk about something related to Mac RAM upgrading. If you had lots of Mac memory, you were the 'fastest kid on the block' or something along those lines. And this still holds true today.
We will discuss 2 key ways through which you can effectively add RAM to your MacBook Pro, iMac or MacBook Air.
- Part 2. The Cheapest and Easiest Way to Get More Mac RAM with Software
Part 1: Knowledge of RAM
Random Access Memory (RAM) refers to a small, replaceable circuit board inside your computer that gives your Mac temporary workspace - that is, a place where data is temporarily stored. That is why the data can be quickly loaded and accessed. So for example, when you launch an app or do anything else that requires you to load data, your Mac brings RAM into play to store any relevant data while it continues to work with it. Modern computers often come equipped with 4, 8, 16 or more gigabytes of RAM pre-installed.
More available RAM means you can run larger and more apps and programs simultaneously, without slowing down your Mac or waiting for long disk load operations before you can actually access or start using a specific program.
Should I Do a Mac Memory Upgrade?
If your system is running low on RAM, you will experience slowdowns when launching programs, loading documents, and otherwise using your system. It makes sense to upgrade your RAM - because more RAM means faster CPU access times and as a result, your storage media also works faster. We can know the details at below:
1. Take More Multitasks
The more physical RAM you have installed, the more programs you can run at the same time, and with more efficiency as well. This can be particularly useful if you work a lot with photo editing software like Photoshop or you have too many browser windows and tabs opened at the same time, along with the usual word processor or presentation software running in the background.
2. Open Programs Faster
Naturally, adding memory to your iMac can launch your programs faster ' something which can be a frustrating ordeal otherwise when you're working with a program that's memory-intensive.
3. Get Better Gaming Performance
This may not be seen as a potential advantage by everyone. But if you also use your Mac for entertainment, then you can expect games to generally perform better, run smoother and of course, load faster between screens.
4. More productivity
3D modeling and photo editing software are just two examples of applications that suck up a lot of resources. Having more RAM means you can stay productive as you won't have to wait too long for things to load.
Part 2: The Cheapest and Easiest Way to Get More Mac RAM with Software
The easiest and most cost-effective way to increase Mac RAM is to release more internal memory space on your Mac. With longer operation times, more memory can get clogged up. Using a professional tool like iMyFone Umate Mac Cleaner, you can free up unused RAM on your computer and instantly see noticeable performance gains.
Advantages of using iMyFone Umate Mac Cleaner:
- It support all Mac models and versions
- Very straightforward operation, allowing you to free up memory in a single operation or in bulk
- Very easy for new users and you can free up RAM yourself without any technical knowledge
- The low-cost tool that offers amazing features for a lifetime
- Lists out all apps and processes which are eating up RAM larger than 50MB
- Shows real-time statistics to help you manage RAM
- All-in-one Mac manager helps to delete large and unnecessary files, duplicate files, private data that's no longer needed, junk files, etc. It helps to manage all apps and extensions on your computer which are occupying too much memory.
- Helps you get twice as much RAM
Here is how to download, install and use this tool to increase Mac RAM
- Download the tool by clicking the above button.
- Launch Umate Mac Cleaner and click on 'Speed Up Your Mac' on the left panel.
- Click on 'Start Now'.
- It will show you all the programs that can be closed to release more RAM. Click on 'Free Up RAM'.
Now, you have got the super easy steps to increase Mac RAM. Of course, if you don't want to adopt the simple way we mentioned above, there is another relatively hard way to add RAM to your Mac. Next, we are going to tell you something you should pay attention to when doing Mac memory upgrading.
Part 3: Complex and Expensive Way: Manually Add RAM to your Mac/MacBook
Unlike using the solution to increase RAM with software, adding RAM to Mac is a hard way for most of us. We can conclude this way as a high-cost, complex and technology necessary method. If you don't mind spending extra cash and arming yourself with some technical knowledge, then here's how you're going to physically do a Mac memory upgrade:
3.1 Preparations before Mac Memory Upgrading
1. To prevent damage from static electricity, shut down your Mac (without removing the Mains plug) and wait for at least 10 minutes.
2. Keep your new RAM in its packaging right up until you're about to install it.
3. Touch an unpainted metal surface in your Mac to discharge any remaining static in your body.
4. When mounting your RAM into the slot, ensure that the gap in the front-facing gold contacts matches up with the protrusion in your motherboard's RAM housing.
3.2 Check the Actual Expandable Size of Your Mac
Access the Apple menu and select 'About this Mac'. Under the Memory tab, you can access a variety of information about your RAM, including the maximum it can hold.
Alternatively, you could also visit Apple's web support.
3.3 Check if Your Mac Models Can be Upgraded
You can use the same Apple menu and pull down the 'About this Mac' option to see if your model can be upgraded. Below the current memory size, if you see slots that say 'Empty', that means your Mac is upgradeable. Also, you can check the list we have posted below.
With some Mac models, the RAM is fixed into place and not upgradeable. Check the list below to know if your Mac models can be upgraded.
Some iMacs, like all the 27' models, have an access panel specifically for adding RAM. And it takes only a few seconds to pop that panel off. Other models, like the latest 21.5' iMac models, require you to remove the screen and logic board which may take at least a few hours. As things stand now, you can upgrade the RAM yourself in the following Mac models:
- MacBook Core 2 Duo
- MacBook Unibody
- MacBook Pro 13' (Mid 2009-Mid 2012)
- MacBook Pro 15' (Late 2008-Mid 2012)
- MacBook Pro 17' (All Models)
- iMac 17' (All Models)
- iMac 20' (All Models)
- iMac 24' (All Models)
- iMac 27' (All Models)
- Mac Mini (Mid 2010-Late 2012)
- Mac Pro (All Models)
Because Apple has taken to soldering the RAM to the motherboard of the computer - particularly on laptops in the last few years. You currently cannot upgrade the RAM yourself in these Mac models:
- iMac Pro (All Models)
- Retina MacBook (All Models)
- MacBook Air 11' (All Models)
- MacBook Air 13' (All Models)
- MacBook Pro 13' with Retina Display (All Models)
- MacBook Pro 13' with Touch Bar (All Models)
- MacBook Pro 15' with Retina Display (All Models)
- MacBook Pro 15' with Touch Bar (All Models)
3.4 Steps to Install More RAM
- Completely shut down your Mac.
- Turn your computer over so that the back is facing you.
- Remove all the screws to take the case off.
- Discharge any static electricity in your body by touching a painted metal surface inside your Mac.
- Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
- Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
- Use two fingers with a firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
- Repeat this procedure to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.
- The last step is to replace and tighten the ten screws you removed earlier, making sure to put the different length screws in their proper locations.
That's how to upgrade Mac RAM t get more running space! If you have any question about the steps on how to install RAM on Mac, then you can check the Apple official guide for details.
Important Best photo manipulation software for mac.
If you apply the manual way to upgrade RAM, there truly exist some risks. We can have an idea as follows:
1. You may damage your Mac
There's a good chance that you may damage the really expensive and fragile components inside your Mac if you don't exercise certain antistatic precautions and general care.
Increase Storage On Macbook Pro
Even if you do take all the necessary precautionary measures, you are still undertaking the task of a MacBook pro memory upgrade on your own. If you inadvertently damage anything in the process, the repairs will not be covered under your warranty.
2. Installing the wrong RAM
Not all RAM modules are made the same. Mac based software. Install the wrong-spec RAM, and you may irrecoverably damage the RAM module itself as well as some of the components inside your computer. Furthermore, you may also be looking at a string of hardware and software corruption issues that can be costly to fix.
3. Some Macs Are Not Upgradeable
Whether or not you can upgrade the RAM in your Mac—and how easy it is to do so—depends entirely on the model. Some iMacs, like all the 27” models, have an access panel specifically for adding RAM. And it takes only a few seconds to pop that panel off. But for some other models, they are not supported to upgrade or install more RAM. There will be a detailed list for all supported Mac models on part 3.
4. It's complex, technical and expensive
By not knowing which RAM module to use in your computer or not understanding whether your computer allows RAM upgrades, you are taking a colossal risk. Besides, buying genuine mac memory upgrades from an authorized dealer can be very expensive.
For these potential risks of upgrading Mac RAM in a manual way, we recommend increasing Mac RAM with software solution - Umate Mac Cleaner.
In Closing
Freeing up RAM on your MacBook Pro, iMac, or MacBook Air is as simple as knowing what RAM module to use and how to install it. However, for the easiest, cheapest and most hassle-free way to free up Mac memory, we'd still recommend iMyFone Umate Mac Cleaner.