• Mac Pro Memory

• Mac Mini Memory

• Upgraded Macs

• Mac Compatibility Mac Compatibility MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2020) MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2018 - 2019).
• A-Tech 16GB Kit (2x8GB) DDR3 1600MHz RAM for Apple MacBook Pro (Mid 2012), iMac (Late 2012, Early/Late 2013, Late 2014, Mid 2015), Mac Mini (Late 2012) PC3-12800 SO-DIMM 204-Pin Memory Upgrade 4.7 out of 5 stars 1,066.

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Tips and Tools

FreeMemory for Mac is a utility to free up unneeded memory in your Mac OS X device. It is available for free from the App Store and download sites. OWC memory is specifically engineered for compatibility with your Mac. We start with the highest-quality components, and then create memory to the exacting speed, capacity, and programming specifications of nearly every upgradeable Apple computer. The result is JEDEC-compliant memory that’s a perfect fit for a faster Mac. Speed for Mac systems. A memory upgrade is the fastest, easiest, and most affordable way to get more performance out of your Mac system. Standard DDR3 modules help Mac systems reach speeds up to 1600 MT/s, and DDR3L modules start at 1866 MT/s.

Is Your Mac Ready for macOS Sierra?

If you aren't sure whether you can upgrade to macOS Sierra, take a look at some of our recommendations. In general, 4GB of Memory is a minimum requirement, 8GB of Memory is recommended, and 16GB or more is ideal because it gives you enough room for most of your other applications. The models below are oldest ones that still qualify for a macOS Sierra upgrade.

MacBook Pro 7,1

Memory For Mac Mini

This MacBook Pro 7,1 was released in Mid 2010. It's published system maximum is 8GB although we can upgrade this machine to 16GB of RAM as it has been thoroughly tested in our labs. This is perfect for those who like to keep a lot of apps or browser tabs open at the same time.

MacBook 6,1

The MacBook 6,1 was released in Late 2009. Its published system maximum is 4GB. We can upgrade this machine to 8GB of RAM as it has been thoroughly tested in our labs. Running macOS Sierra on 8GB over 4GB of RAM is a significant improvement. Say goodbye to the spinning wheel of pain!

iMac 10,1

The iMac 10,1 was released in Late 2009. We call this a four slot machine because there are four memory banks. The published system maximum is 16GB or 4x4GB. Don't think about upgrading beyond the 16GB maximum. We've tried and failed many times over! If you have less than the system maximum, then you can upgrade your machine to 16GB of RAM. And don't forget, we can offer you cash back for your old RAM!

If you would like information about your Mac Pro, Mac mini, or MacBook Air, go to Part 2.

Is Your Mac Ready for macOS Sierra (Part 2)?

Two weeks ago, we took a look at the MacBook, MacBook Pro and iMac series of machines in order to see what could be done in order to prepare for macOS Sierra. As mentioned before, 4GB of RAM is a minimum requirement, 8GB is recommended, and 16GB or more is ideal because it gives you enough room for most of your other applications.

See what a difference upgrading your RAM did for one of customers recently.

For the Mac Pro, Mac mini, and MacBook Air series, the models below are the oldest ones that still qualify for a macOS Sierra upgrade.

Mac Pro 5,1 - Introduced in June 2012

This Mac Pro 5,1 was released in Mid 2010. The maximum amount of RAM depends upon which machine you purchased. The published system maximum for the 12-Core machine is 64GB but it is widely known that 128GB works for this 8-slot machine but you must remember that all 16GB DIMMs must come from the same batch for them to work together. The published system maximum for the 4 and 6-Core machines is 32GB but it can actually accept up to 48GB in a tri-channel configuration (16GBx3).

Mac mini 4,1 - Introduced in June 2010

The published system maximum is 8GB of RAM but this Mac mini can accept up to 16GB. You should generally leave up to 64GB of storage for the new OS and seeing that this Mac mini originally came with only 320GB or 500GB of hard drive storage, this might also be a good opportunity to add a 1TB SSD with your memory. See our special offer on this performance package ($20 OFF when buying them together).

MacBook Air 3,1 - Introduced in October 2010

Regrettably, all MacBook Airs, including this one, are not user upgradable for RAM. However, seeing that this was originally sold with only a 64GB or 128GB of SSD storage, now would be a good time to upgrade your SSD for this machine. Our 500GB SSD can be installed in a matter of minutes and we provide you a free enclosure for making use of your old one.

How to find your Mac's Model ID

Are you confused about how to identify your Apple machine? One of the most effective ways is to find your Model Identifier. For example, the most recent release of the 27' iMac is the Late 2015 version and has the Model ID 17,1.

If you're not sure, we can help by following these three easy steps.

Step 1: Click on the Apple menu in your toolbar, then click on 'About This Mac.'
Step 2: On the About This Mac screen, click on the 'System Report...' button.
Step 3: The second line listed will be your Model Identifier (Model ID).

OS Yosemite - Addressing Poor System Performance

Our customers frequently mention that their machines are performing poorly after upgrading to Yosemite. If you’ve recently upgraded your Mac to OSX Yosemite, we’ve got a few tips to keep your machine performing at its best.

As you may know, upgrading your memory is the most affordable and effective improvement you can make to your Mac. With Ramjet, we make the process easy and convenient. Simply head over to our site, find your Mac’s Model ID, choose your memory size, and select the option that’s best for you. If you need a recommendation, we’re happy to help!

Memory. Yosemite requires a LOT of memory compared to previous versions of Mac OSX. Yosemite requires 3.75GB of RAM for the operating system alone! If you have less than 4GB of RAM, a memory upgrade will offer a massive improvement in performance.

Reduce transparency. This appearance enhancement to Yosemite requires a shocking amount of system resources. Other than upgrading the RAM, reducing transparency is the single biggest improvement you can make in system performance under Yosemite. Reduce window transparency by clicking Apple > System Preferences > Accessibility, and check “Reduce Transparency.”

Clear your desktop. It's common for desktops to become cluttered, as it’s the most convenient place to put frequently accessed files. However, did you know that all items on the desktop occupy valuable system memory? Clearing up the clutter can be the key to substantial performance improvements.

Disable widgets. Widgets are mini-programs or extensions that can be useful when you need them, but can drastically bog down your machine. Disable these by clicking Apple > System Preferences > Extensions > Today, and uncheck all the options you don’t care to see.

Turn off minimize window genie effect. Another visual effect in Yosemite that can slow things down is the minimize window genie effect. Turn this effect off by clicking Apple > System Preferences > Dock and next to “minimize windows using” select “Scale Effect.”

Keep an eye on the activity monitor. The activity monitor on your computer will tell you which programs are using the most memory. To access Activity Monitor, open a new Finder window and click Application > Utilities > Activity Monitor > Memory. If you have programs open that you aren’t using, they may be slowing you down. Many Mac users cite the Google Chrome Helper plugin as a culprit.

Another great option for improving performance in older Macs is replacing your conventional hard drive with a Solid State Drive. Ever wonder why the new mac portables perform pretty well even though they have low speed processors? SSD storage is the key. Now you can have the same blazing fast performance for a fraction of the new machine price.

OS Yosemite - How Much RAM Do I Need For Macs?

The new OS X Yosemite has been touted as an elevated experience from previous OS. The design updates, simplified interface, and overall refinement are meant to provide the best user experience. With all these great new upgrades, OS Yosemite is sure to impress. But, before you upgrade, it’s important to make sure your machine is ready too.

After working with OS Yosemite, it appears the upgrades to the user experience do require increased amounts of memory. Ramjet+, a Ramjet Labs exclusive, tests Mac models to determine the maximum amount of RAM that can be installed. Many times this number surpasses Apple specs giving your upgraded device increased speed and performance. Higher performance is just an upgrade away - increasing memory to 4GB or 6GB will significantly increase performance in OS Yosemite.
Minimum requirements for upgrading to OS Yosemite as indicated by Apple are 2GB of RAM and 8GB of available storage space. To check how much RAM your Mac currently has, click on your Apple menu in the upper left-hand corner and click 'About This Mac'. The line that reads ‘Memory’ will tell you if your Mac has the necessary 2GB of RAM or if you will need to upgrade before you can install OS Yosemite.
Increase Speed for Older Models
For older machines, there are a number of troubleshooting suggestions that can ensure OS Yosemite is running quickly and smoothly. One of the most effective is disabling extraneous widgets and extensions. By accessing the Apple Menu > System Preferences > Extensions and deselecting options like Weather and Stock updates, the notifications panel will not need to be refreshed continually, increasing overall speed.

Alternatively, simple desktop cleanup can increase load time as each icon requires memory to store and load each time the Mac is rebooted or files are accessed. Utilizing external storage options, like Ramjet’s Thunderbolt Storage, can also be used to free up storage space on your bootable drive and increase user experience. Simple file organization and re-distribution can go a long way for increasing usability on any OS, and Yosemite is no exception.

Accessing the Activity Monitor (Command+Spacebar > Search “Activity Monitor”) will allow users access to information regarding CPU, memory or disk I/O. Apps, windows, and web pages that appear to be using more system memory than normal should be exited to free up space and increase speed. Keep in mind, some programs including mds and mdsworker will use significant amounts of CPU - this is normal as these programs will be running as they index hard drives. These should be left to run their course.

Read on to find out if your Mac's Model ID can upgrade to OS Yosemite.

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.

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.

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
   
3. Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
   

Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)

1. 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.
2. Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
3. Remove the other memory module.
   Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the gold connectors.
   

Step 3: Install memory

1. Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
2. Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
3. 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.
4. 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.

Memory For Mac Mini Late 2012

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
   
3. Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
   

Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)

1. 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.
2. Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
3. Remove the other memory module.
   Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the gold connectors.

Step 3: Install memory

1. Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
2. Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
3. 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.
4. 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.

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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

1. 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.
   
2. Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.

Step 4: Remove existing memory (if present)

1. 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.
2. Hold the memory module by the notches and remove it from the slot.
3. Remove the other memory module.
   Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.
   

Step 5: Install memory

1. Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
2. Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
3. 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.
4. 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.

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
   
3. Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
   

Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)

1. 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.
2. Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
3. Remove the other memory module.
   Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.
   

Memory For Macbook Air

Step 3: Install memory

1. Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
2. Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
3. 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.
4. 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.

Memory For Macbook Pro

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.

Refer to this table for the maximum amount of memory that can be recognized by these notebook computers:

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

1. 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.
2. Turn the computer over.
3. Locate the battery release latches on each side of the battery.
4. Slide both latches up. The battery should pop up slightly.
5. Lift the battery out.
   

Step 2: Remove the memory door

1. 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.
   
2. 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.

Step 4: Install memory

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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

1. Place the bottom edge of the battery into the battery compartment at an angle, as shown below.
2. 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:

1. Start up your computer.
2. When you see the Mac OS X desktop, choose the Apple () menu from the upper-left menu bar, then choose About This Mac.

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.