Updating your RAM for a Mac can provide remarkable performance capabilities, in addition to equipping the machine to work software look for the future.
For older models, the process is much simpler, and if you use third-party RAM from similar companies Average, You will also find less expensive ones. Today's Macs are a different story, and there are many risks to avoid, which is why we've put together this guide.
For general tips on how to maximize the power of your program, take a look How to fix your Mac by updating macOS.
Should I upgrade my RAM?
Random Access Memory (RAM) is a temporary storage used by your Mac CPU. In fact, it is a temporary repository where the data source is stored while you run it.
A CPU can access data stored in RAM much faster than making data on a hard drive, for example. This makes it very important for the efficiency of your Mac.
So is it a good idea to upgrade your RAM? In most cases, however. Simply put, RAM upgrade is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to breathe new life into an old Mac. And for most models, the only tool you'll need is a small screw.
However, if your Mac is a new model, there may be no way to upgrade RAM, or it may be theoretically possible, but dangerous.
Before upgrading your RAM, consider if there are other ways to solve your memory problem. You may want to review these tips on how to free memory for your Mac.
There are also many risks associated with increasing the RAM for your Mac, which we explain below:
1. Don't hijack your Mac
There is a chance that failure to take appropriate security measures (which we will cover later) could damage the sensitive electronic components inside your Mac.
If you work carefully and follow the instructions you should have been healthy, but you do the job yourself by accident, and Macworld accepts no responsibility if you rotate the motherboard or encounter similar problems.
2. RAM memory refresh may close your warranty
As a general rule, RAM is considered a "user" part and therefore will not invalidate your warranty.
However, in the case of many modern Mac -particularly Mac laptops – Apple can specify that RAM (RAM) is not erased by users and suggests that if RAM is to be upgraded it must be performed by an Apple authorized service provider. .
With this in mind, you may want to check the word "easy to use" in your Mac notebook for verification. Of course, if your Mac runs out of warranty, you don't have to worry about failing to do anything.
3. RAM may not be available
In some Mac models the RAM is sold locally (for example 21.5 on the iMac 2015) which makes it impossible to upgrade, and if you try it will probably damage your Mac.
Do I need more RAM?
There are two other things to consider before you consider upgrading the RAM for your Mac: how much money you have and how much you use your Mac. Here's how to find the answers to both questions.
How much RAM do I have?
For modern Mac ships with less than 8GB of RAM, in most cases you will get 16GB of RAM as standard. It's been a long time since Apple sold Macs for anything less than that, whether you have a MacBook Air from 2015, or a Mac mini from 2014, you may only have 4 GB of RAM.
Even older Macs ships with less RAM than that. On the other hand, iMacs and MacBook Pro Drives have offered 8GB or more for a long time.
The first step will be to find out how much RAM you have inside your Mac. It's easy to find.
- Click on the & # 39; Apple & # 39; at the top of your screen.
- Click on & # 39; About this Mac & # 39 ;.
- Click on & # 39; System Report & # 39;
- On the wide screen of the & # 39; Hardware & # 39; see the & # 39; Memory & # 39; section. It will tell you how much you have.
- For more information, click on & # 39; Memory & # 39; in the left column.
How much RAM do I use?
The next step is to find out how much RAM your Mac uses during peak usage. This is the best way to find out if you need more RAM.
- Open Monitor Activity on your Mac by pressing Command + Space and type Task.
- Select the Memory tab.
- See the section below of the Memory used.
As you can see in the screenshot above, we have 8 GB of RAM and use 6.5 GB, but we're not doing anything heavy yet. When we start editing a video or something equally power hungry we can see a different story.
Can I install more RAM on my Mac?
Since we've found that additional RAM can help your Mac, the next big question to answer is whether you will be able to add RAM to your Mac.
In some cases, RAM on a Mac is able to upgrade, in some cases the service center can update it, and in some cases it is (unfortunately) impossible to update RAM at all.
The main problem is that in some models, especially MacBooks, RAM is sold, making its removal almost impossible and harmful to the computer. You may have upgraded RAM to these models, but it is a dangerous matter.
Next, we will go into more details on how to add RAM to various Mac models. But in short, you can add RAM to the following Macs:
MacBook: Models only from 2008 to 2011.
MacBook Pro: 2009-2012 13-inch, 2008-2012 15-inch, and any 17-inch model can be updated. If your MacBook Pro has a retina to display RAM it cannot be restored.
MacBook Air: You cannot upgrade RAM to any MacBook Air model.
iMac: RAM can be upgraded to most iMacs, with the exception of couples: 21.5-inch models from mid-2014 and late 2015 for RAM sold.
Mac mini: The 2010 – 2012 models can be updated, just like the 2018 Mini Mac mini.
Mac Pro: You can add RAM to any model.
Mac Pro: RAM is not available to the user. If you need to replace the memory of your iMac Pro, Apple recommends that you contact the Apple Store or Apple's Authorized Service Provider.
How much RAM do I need?
I hope you find that the RAM for your Mac can be upgraded. If so, you may wonder how much you should get.
As a general rule, 16GB is probably not what anyone would like to edit a video or use several compatible machines. But this is for today – a better question, maybe, how much will you need in a few years?
The basic goal of protecting the future of Mac is to make it yours hardware Today it is powerful enough to handle the inevitable increase in software requirements in the coming years. And it's always better to have more than you need.
Our advice would be to always keep this in mind when buying a new Mac. There are many ordering options if you buy a new Mac from Apple, and you should get as much RAM as possible.
RAM memory compatible with your Mac?
This is the next challenge. Not all RAM is created equal. Before upgrading, you should find out what kind of RAM is compatible with your Mac.
Welded non-renewable RAM
As we mentioned before, some Macs, especially MacBooks, have RAM for sale, which means it's impossible to uninstall and if you try it can damage your computer. Of these types you really want to buy as much as you can in the marketplace to "prove yourself in the future".
It is possible to upgrade the sold RAM, but it is a very difficult process that can inevitably lead to the destruction of your Mac. You can see how REWA technology updates the RAM for MacBook Air 2015 in this video.
RAM types
Now, assuming that the RAM for your Mac can be configured, there are a number of technical statistics used to define RAM, two pieces of information you need to vary "data rate" (i.e. DDR3)), and frequency (e.g. 1600 MHz). It can also be useful to know the model identifier for your Mac (i.e. & # 39; MacPro6,1 & # 39;)
If in doubt, ask yourself: If you are unsure before making a purchase, ask your RAM vendor that you can make sure the components mentioned are compatible with your Mac. That way you will be folded.
The first, and probably easiest, way to use & # 39; About this Mac & # 39 ;.
- Click the Apple icon in the upper left corner and select & # 39; About This Mac & # 39 ;.
- Look at the image provided by the memory in the "Updated" tab (eg 1866 MHz DDR3). This will tell you the type of RAM you need.
- Then click on the system report.
- Now click on & # 39; Memory & # 39; in the left column. It will tell you how many memory Slots you have received and how to use them.
- You will be able to see if memory can be upgraded – in the case of the MacBook Pro above it is not.
One way to find the right kind of RAM is to use a free Currial scanner. You will need to download the tool and go to & # 39; System Preferences> Security & Privacy> General> Click Open anyway to open the tool. & # 39;
Crucial tool will then scan your computer and let you know if your Mac is being upgraded, and if not. If RAM isn't updated, it will direct you to the RAM you can purchase.
Where to Buy RAM
In addition to Civcial there are many ways to buy RAM. Remember the general rule: cheaper = riskier.
Method 1: Direct from Apple (more expensive)
You can buy your RAM directly from Apple. It's usually a more expensive option, and if you think there are compatible versions that are more efficient and cheaper, this is not our recommended option.
Apple currently has no RAM section in its store, so your best bet may be to go Apple Spain and require 16 GB of RAM or 32 GB of RAM, depending on how much you want to buy.
If you read the description of each product, you'll know that the company doesn't always tell you what Macs RAM RAM is compatible with (usually only if it's a current Mac). So be very careful to make sure you have the right kind of RAM before you buy it.
As we mentioned before, it's best to buy RAM when you buy your Mac, because it will be built to order with the RAM you need.
Method 2: Provider for recurring intervals (not too expensive)
This is our recommended method: Purchase your RAM with a substitute carrier. There are many places to buy RAM online, but, as with most things, well-established companies have warranties and policies to back up your best bet.
In the world behind hardware From Apple, some names are on the test of time. MacUpgrades, Crucial and OWC (via Megamac) are our three favorites.
Method 3: Guaranteed Renewal (cheaper again, but with shorter warranty)
RAM memory returned by Apple or another company (possibly Apple-approved) is called "authenticated." Restored RAM is more common than, say, Macs restored, but they are. Authenticated RAM restored is usually backed by a warranty, though this is much shorter than Apple's warranty.
Method 4: Second (more expensive, but riskier)
We do not recommend this. If done correctly, it is usually the cheapest option. It is also tricky as it is often uncertain and can be repeated. You can save hundreds, or you can end up spending on something that doesn't work. Caveat emptor.
There are many places to buy second-hand, but when it comes to selections, eBay is probably the best-mentioned. You can also try AliExpress (which also has many options), eBid or Gumtree.
What to do before restoring your RAM
Although RAM development is straightforward (as far as improvements are available) there are still some security measures to take when handling sensitive electronics and accessing your Mac.
The goal is to prevent any damage caused by static electricity. This can happen if you touch an electric utility with a different electric bill (yes, you also do the electricity).
First, turn off your Mac and wait at least 10 minutes for the internal components to cool.
Be sure to store your RAM in its antistatic compilation and need it. When you are ready to start, touch the stainless steel area of your computer to remove any static from your body. Try to make sure your workplace is not as static as possible, remove plastic bags or other materials that can create a good shape.
Keep your Mac connected, but turned off. This can help ensure that the case is taken down, reducing the chance of insults. Most serious users may want to consider using an antistatic wrist or heel cord to minimize load buildup, but this is not essential.
When setting up your RAM, make sure that the small cut-off note on the gold contacts in the front is the same as walking on the available surface. When properly integrated, it will eventually come together as a puzzle. If installed improperly, the bump will stop the RAM from connecting completely.
How to upgrade the MacBook Pro RAM
After the arrival of the Retina show, updating your Mac desktop, be it a MacBook, MacBook Air or MacBook Pro became impossible. If you have the Mac you have, then updating will be difficult or, may not, happen.
However, if your MacBook Pro was purchased in early 2012 you should be able to upgrade RAM.
The widest range of MacBook upgrades would be:
- MacBook: 2008 to 2011 models only.
- MacBook Pro: 2009-2012 13in, 2008-2012 15in, and any 17in model can be updated.
Models produced before 2012 are easy to develop, though there are obvious differences in the design of the original Air, Pro, and MacBook.
MacBook Pro RAM upgrade
If your MacBook Pro is from 2009 to 2012, follow these steps:
Turn off your Mac, unplug it, and wait a while to make sure everything is OK.
Remove the bottom of the case while keeping track of all screws (there are 10 scales of different lengths, so it is best to attach them to the A4 sheet of paper in the correct places).
Before moving on, you need to hit a specific instrument to get rid of any static electricity you have collected.
You should be able to see the available RAM. Remove it by pressing holes in both sides. Before deleting the memory, find the keys – if you can't find them, press the levers again. Lift the memory up (hold it to the sides and be careful not to touch the golden connectors).
To install the new RAM, install the notch module with the memory slot – you should have the gold side facing up. Press memory to.
Press memory down to lock it in its place.
Now replace the bottom of the box with your carefully marked screws (follow them directly!)
Looking for different model commands? See our Mac upgrade guide.
How to upgrade your Mac mini RAM memory
Until the end of 2014, the Mac mini was the easiest tool to develop. Just remove the plastic base and there are two pop-up RAM straps where you can put new chips. If you have one of these types, it's probably equipped with 4GB of RAM, as was Apple's standard.
Sadly, the Mac mini 2014 has eliminated the feature of the handset update in its predecessor. It was only possible to upgrade it to the marketplace, otherwise it came with 4 GB installed, which can be increased to 8 GB for $ 100 or 16 GB for $ 300. The top two models come with 8GB of RAM, which can also be upgraded to 16GB .
In the following years, the Mac mini was not "easy to upgrade RAM", with enough flexibility in the internal configuration of the different models, meaning some needed more disks than others. Sometimes it is necessary to release parts of the sound board, which can end up being bad if you are not careful.
Fortunately, when Apple updated the Mac mini in 2018, changes were made to make it even better, though Apple suggests that the upgrade should be made by the Authorized Service Provider ab (although that won't stop good developers). That machine can receive 64GB of RAM.
Here is a list of the Mac mini that can be upgraded:
- The 2018 mini – is not officially upgraded, but you can get the memory updated by an authorized service provider.
- 2010-2012 Mac mini – user can upgrade.
Today on the Crucial memory chip shop website you can buy an 8GB kit for £ 59.99 or a 16GB kit for $ 91.19 (both for the 2012 Mac mini generation) or the 16GB kit for $ 92.39 and the 32GB kit for $ 179,99 (for the 2018 Mac).
Depending on the model you are working on, you will need some sort of flat surface to remove the top cap (blunt, not sharp). But don't let that stop you: US partners. In the USA They managed to do it in just 6 minutes, but it was the oldest Mac mini model.
Updated Mac mini RAM
If you have a 2010 to 2012 model the following steps should apply to you:
Start by turning off your Mac mini and unplugging it.
Turn your Mac mini upside down to see the cover below. Rotate the cover with the lid to open it.
If you press the cover, it should come out.
Delete existing memory: you will have to press the clips at the end of the memory to remove it.
You can now insert new memory.
Replace cover – you need to match the dots before moving them back to the locked position.
How to upgrade Mac & # 39; s Mac & # 39; s
Updating the iMac RAM memory, at least in the case of the 27in model, is easier than updating some of its components, since it usually doesn't involve removing the screen.
It's easier to upgrade RAM memory on a 27-inch iMac than a 21.5-inch because the 27-inch model has a simple, central memory access door at the bottom of the screen, where you can access RAM memory (as shown in the following image) . If so, updating RAM is easy, you have to make sure you buy the right RAM and everything is ready.
However the 21.5-inch iMac RAM can be very difficult to upgrade, and for some generations (i.e. the model between 2014 and late 2015) it's unlikely to improve due to sales instead.
Fortunately, Apple has introduced soldering RAM in recent years. Now even 21.5-inch iMacs can be upgraded, but it's the best challenge left for Apple's authorized service provider.
Here is our list of reviewable iMacs:
- 27 on the iMac: RAM can be upgraded.
- 21.5 on the iMac: RAM can be upgraded to more 21.5-inch iMacs, with the exception of a couple: the 21.5 inch models in mid-2014 and the end-of-2015 models were sold in RAM.
- IMac Pro: RAM not available by user. If your iMac Pro memory needs to be changed, Apple suggests you contact the Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider.
27 in iMac RAM development
In this example, we upgraded the 27-inch Mac RAM. It is a simple process.
- Place the iMac & # 39; s flat panel on a soft object (such as a towel or blanket) to protect the screen.
- Press the small button above the generator, and select the memory hatch door above it. This is possible only with your fingers.
- Try to avoid using something that helps open the door, as you can design your Mac. Find someone with long, strong nails if that helps. You don't need too much pressure to open this door.
- You will now see 4GB of DIMMs of memory shipped by Apple as standard with its iMacs. The company shows how RAM should be mounted on the back of the memory hatch door.
- Now take out the smaller arms to mount RAM Slots on the iMac.
- Insert your new DIMMs into empty spaces. There is no need to replace existing memory chips unless you add four new 8GB DIMMs to the maximum 32GB memory capacity.
- Press the small levers to return the DIMMs to the flat.
- Put the door back in its place. You don't need long nails for this!
21.5-inch iMac RAM upgrade
In this example we updated the iMac RAM memory from mid-2010. As mentioned earlier, the 21.5-inch Mac RAM between mid-2014 and late 2015 hasn't been much better.
As long as the 2014/2015 model is not updated, the process should be the same as described below.
Place your Mac facing down in a clean, smooth place. We recommend that you place a towel under your Mac and in the work area, so that you do not set the screen.
Locate the RAM access door under your Mac. Pour over three protective screws, you should stay inside the entrance door, then remove the door.
Carefully slide the black tab into RAM out of the layout.
Carefully press down this tab to uninstall the module from this side of the RAM.
Slide the RAM module out of its pool insert and set it aside. Repeat this process to remove RAM modules from other bays.
Make sure that the replaced RAM modules are properly set up, and then mount them neatly on the iMac. Make sure they are inserted using your thumb.
How to upgrade Mac Pro RAM
It may look like the same external build in many ways, but the Mac Pro doesn't have the same user-friendly hatch as the iMac, so you can't upgrade its own RAM.
The good news is that you can upgrade your RAM, just go to the service center and ask them to upgrade it for you. Rene Ritchie says this should not be an Apple store, it can be an independent store.
How to Update Mac Pro RAM
Mac Pro was used by Apple's product "very easy to upgrade". Even the 2013 Mac Pro had a memory bay, though difficult to access.
RAM inside Apple's new Mac Pro introduced in late 2019 can also be improved.
Mac Pro RAM Update (2013)
It is good to remember that the memory lists are not very tight and often bind when you are not careful. The OWC offers a "nylon pry tool" (AKA "Spudger") for this, but it's totally unnecessary – a small fine and a little patience goes a long way.
Apple offers a guide shown on memory development: just click & # 39; Apple> About This Mac & # 39 ;, then on the & # 39; Memory & # 39; then connect to the & # 39; Memory Upgrade Instructions & # 39; link.
Slide the lock button to the right, go to the unlocked area, and slide the outside case out of the Mac Pro.
Push the RAM release tab at the top (on the side of the white arrow). This will make RAM Slots open to the outside, allowing you access to modules.
Gently, but firmly, grab the top and bottom of the RAM module and pull it out of the slot.
To install new modules or modules make sure that they are properly tilted, then press the ram onto the boat, be sure to apply pressure up and down the chip, making sure that it is fully integrated.
Push the tray into the body of the Mac Pro, then finish and close
housing.
Mac Pro Update (pre 2012) RAM
Lift the Lock lever to the back of the case to open the side panel, and remove the side panel.
Locate the RAM tray in the bottom corner of the Mac Pro.
On the other hand press down on the ejectors on both sides of the RAM lever; this should cause RAM to be released. Then carefully lift the rod.
Make sure the new club is properly aligned, and carefully press the club down to the pool with both hands, making sure you put both pressure on the edge of the club. You should hear the click when the ejectors block the cab. Make sure both titles are secure.
What to do after restoring your RAM
When you're done developing, it's a safe bet to test your new memory modules, to make sure everything is really working.
Why? It's not often as if a piece of RAM doesn't grow. Sometimes an error chip works in the form of a manufacturer's quality check, and a memory test can help you prevent problems before you start experiencing the same drops and disasters.
Recommended: Memtest
One of the best known pieces of software in this regard is Memtest, which is freely available here.
It's easy to use. First, download the project folder as a zip.
Then open it up, and use Memtest unix which is mysterious.
The software it will run in the test sequence in the terminal window. Close as many programs as you can before running the test – this gives Memtest as much RAM as possible to work with.
Alternatives
If for some reason Memtest doesn't belong to you, there are many ways in the App store: look for the "Memory Test" software, but check for updates first. We haven't tested any of them yet and can only approve Memtest.
You can also use the built-in memory tests for your Mac. Restart or boot your Mac, then hold the D key as you borrow – this should take you to the diagnostic screen.
The feature in this range will depend on your operating system, but somewhere in the options should have a section called "Hardware Testing", where you'll find the option to test your memory.
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