Choose your iMac model
If you're not sure which iMac you have, you can identify your iMac and then select it from the list below.
- Dec 12, 2019 Mac Pro (2019) memory specifications Learn about the types of memory (RAM) used in Mac Pro (2019). Mac Pro has a 6-channel memory controller that supports 12 memory slots you can use to install up to 1.5TB of memory using 2933MHz DDR4 ECC compliant memory DIMMs.
- Mac Mini Quad Core, Mac Mini 4gb Ram, Intel I7 Quad Core Laptop, Apple MacBook Intel Core i7 3rd Gen. 4GB Memory Laptops, PC3L-10600R Bus Speed Network Server Memory (RAM) 4GB, Dell Intel Core 2 Quad 4GB RAM PC Laptops & Netbooks, 4GB 2 PC3-10600 (DDR3-1333) Computer Memory (RAM), Apple Mac mini Intel Core i7 3rd Gen Desktop.
The memory advisor for a Macbook on the Crucial website lists a different product number then selecting the same specs manually. So, if the memory is listed as 200-Pin DDR2 667 PC2 5300, why the difference products numbers. Even Newegg has a different page with different brands for Mac memory. If all of the specs are the same, what is the.
27-inch
24-inch
21.5-inch
- iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2019)*
- iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2017)*
- iMac (21.5-inch, 2017)*
- iMac (21.5 inch, Mid 2014)*
- iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2013)*
- iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2012)*
20-inch
17-inch
* Memory is not removable by users on iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2012), iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2013), iMac (21.5-inch, Mid 2014), iMac (21.5-inch, 2017), iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2017), and iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2019). If the memory in one of these computers needs repair service, contact an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider. If you’d like to upgrade the memory in one of these models, an Apple Authorized Service Provider can help. Before you schedule an appointment, confirm that the specific Apple Authorized Service Provider offers memory upgrade services.
Memory in iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2015), and iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, Late 2015) is not upgradeable.
iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2020)
Get memory specifications for iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2020), then learn how to install memory in this model.
Memory specifications
This iMac model features Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots on the rear of the computer near the vents with these memory specifications:
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 8GB (2 x 4GB DIMMs) |
Maximum memory | 128GB (4 x 32GB DIMMs) |
For optimal memory performance, DIMMs should be the same capacity, speed, and vendor. Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
- PC4-21333
- Unbuffered
- Nonparity
- 260-pin
- 2666MHz DDR4 SDRAM
If you have mixed capacity DIMMs, see the install memory section for installation recommendations.
iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2019)
Get memory specifications for iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2019), then learn how to install memory in this model.
Memory specifications
This iMac model features Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots on the rear of the computer near the vents with these memory specifications:
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 8GB (2 x 4GB DIMMs) |
Maximum memory | 64GB (4 x 16GB DIMMs) |
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
- PC4-21333
- Unbuffered
- Nonparity
- 260-pin
- 2666MHz DDR4 SDRAM
iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017)
Get memory specifications for iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017), then learn how to install memory in this model.
Memory specifications
This iMac model features Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots on the rear of the computer near the vents with these memory specifications:
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 8GB (2 x 4GB DIMMs) |
Maximum memory | 64GB (4 x 16GB DIMMs) |
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
- PC4-2400 (19200)
- Unbuffered
- Nonparity
- 260-pin
- 2400MHz DDR4 SDRAM
iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015)
Get memory specifications for iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015), then learn how to install memory in this model.
Memory specifications
This iMac model features Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots on the rear of the computer near the vents with these memory specifications:
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 8GB |
Maximum memory | 32GB |
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
- PC3-14900
- Unbuffered
- Nonparity
- 204-pin
- 1867MHz DDR3 SDRAM
For these 27-inch models
Get memory specifications for the following iMac models, then learn how to install memory in them:
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Mid 2015)
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2014)
- iMac (27-inch, Late 2013)
- iMac (27-inch, Late 2012)
Memory specifications
These iMac models feature Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots on the rear of the computer near the vents with these memory specifications:
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 8GB |
Maximum memory | 32GB |
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
- PC3-12800
- Unbuffered
- Nonparity
- 204-pin
- 1600MHz DDR3 SDRAM
Installing memory
The internal components of your iMac can be warm. If you've been using your iMac, wait ten minutes after shutting it down to let the internal components cool.
After you shut down your iMac and give it time to cool, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
- Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
- Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
- Open the memory compartment door by pressing the small grey button located just above the AC power port:
- The memory compartment door will open as the button is pushed in. Remove the compartment door and set it aside:
- A diagram on the underside of the compartment door shows the memory cage levers and the orientation of the DIMM. Locate the two levers on the right and left sides of the memory cage. Push the two levers outward to release the memory cage:
- After the memory cage is released, pull the memory cage levers toward you, allowing access to each DIMM slot.
- Remove a DIMM by pulling the module straight up and out. Note the location of the notch on the bottom of the DIMM. When reinstalling DIMMs, the notch must be oriented correctly or the DIMM won't fully insert:
- Replace or install a DIMM by setting it down into the slot and pressing firmly until you feel the DIMM click into the slot. When you insert a DIMM, make sure to align the notch on the DIMM to the DIMM slot. Find your model below for specific installation instructions and notch locations:
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2020) DIMMs have a notch on the bottom, slightly left of the middle. If your DIMMs are mixed in capacity, minimize the capacity difference between Channel A (slots 1 and 2) and Channel B (slots 3 and 4) when possible.
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2019) DIMMs have a notch on the bottom, slightly left of the middle:
- iMac (27-inch, Late 2012) and iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017) DIMMs have a notch on the bottom left:
- iMac (27-inch, Late 2013) and iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2014, Mid 2015, and Late 2015) DIMMs have a notch on the bottom right:
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2020) DIMMs have a notch on the bottom, slightly left of the middle. If your DIMMs are mixed in capacity, minimize the capacity difference between Channel A (slots 1 and 2) and Channel B (slots 3 and 4) when possible.
- After you install all of your DIMMs, push both memory cage levers back into the housing until they lock into place:
- Replace the memory compartment door. You don't need to press the compartment door release button when replacing the compartment door.
- Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.
Your iMac performs a memory initialization procedure when you first turn it on after upgrading memory or rearranging DIMMs. This process can take 30 seconds or more, and the display of your iMac remains dark until it's finished. Make sure to let the memory initialization complete.
For these 27-inch and 21.5-inch models
Get memory specifications for the following iMac models, then learn how to install memory in them:
- iMac (27-inch, Mid 2011)
- iMac (21.5-inch, Mid 2011)
- iMac (27-inch, Mid 2010)
- iMac (21.5-inch, Mid 2010)
- iMac (27-inch, Late 2009)
- iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2009)
Memory specifications
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 4GB (but is configured to order) |
Maximum memory | 16GB For iMac (Late 2009), you can use 2GB or 4GB RAM SO-DIMMs of 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM in each slot. For iMac (Mid 2010) and iMac (Mid 2011), use 2GB or 4GB RAM SO-DIMMs of 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM in each slot. |
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
iMac (Mid 2011) | iMac (Mid 2010) | iMac (Late 2009) |
PC3-10600 | PC3-10600 | PC3-8500 |
Unbuffered | Unbuffered | Unbuffered |
Nonparity | Nonparity | Nonparity |
204-pin | 204-pin | 204-pin |
1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM | 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM | 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM |
i5 and i7 Quad Core iMac computers come with both top memory slots populated. These computers will not start up if only a single DIMM is installed in any bottom slot; these computers should operate normally with a single DIMM installed in any top slot.
Core Duo iMac computers should operate normally with a single DIMM installed in any slot, top or bottom. ('Top' and 'bottom' slots refer to the orientation of the slots in the pictures below. 'Top' refers to the slots closest to the display; 'bottom' refers to the slots closest to the stand.)
Installing memory
The internal components of your iMac can be warm. If you've been using your iMac, wait ten minutes after shutting it down to let the internal components cool.
After you shut down your iMac and give it time to cool, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
- Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
- Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
- Using a Philips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door in the bottom of your computer:
- Remove the access door and set it aside.
- Untuck the tab in the memory compartment. If you're replacing a memory module, gently pull the tab to eject any installed memory module:
- Insert your new or replacement SO-DIMM into the empty slot, noting the orientation of the keyway of the SO-DIMM as shown below.
- After you insert it, press the DIMM up into the slot. There should be a slight click when you seat the memory correctly:
- Tuck the tabs above the memory DIMMs, and reinstall the memory access door:
- Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.
For these 24-inch and 20-inch models
Get memory specifications for the following iMac models, then learn how to install memory in them:
- iMac (24-inch, Early 2009)
- iMac (20-inch, Early 2009)
- iMac (24-inch, Early 2008)
- iMac (20-inch, Early 2008)
- iMac (24-inch Mid 2007)
- iMac (20-inch, Mid 2007)
Memory specifications
These iMac computers have two side-by-side Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots in the bottom of the computer.
The maximum amount of random-access memory (RAM) you can install in each computer is:
Computer | Memory Type | Maximum Memory |
iMac (Mid 2007) | DDR2 | 4GB (2x2GB) |
iMac (Early 2008) | DDR2 | 4GB (2x2GB) |
iMac (Early 2009) | DDR3 | 8GB (2x4GB) |
You can use a 1GB or 2GB RAM module in each slot for iMac (Mid 2007) and iMac (Early 2008). Use 1GB, 2GB, or 4GB modules in each slot for the iMac (Early 2009).
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
iMac (Mid 2007) | iMac (Early 2008) | iMac (Early 2009) |
PC2-5300 | PC2-6400 | PC3-8500 |
Unbuffered | Unbuffered | Unbuffered |
Nonparity | Nonparity | Nonparity |
200-pin | 200-pin | 204-pin |
667MHz DDR2 SDRAM | 800MHz DDR2 SDRAM | 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM |
DIMMs with any of the following features aren't supported:
- Registers or buffers
- PLLs
- Error-correcting code (ECC)
- Parity
- Extended data out (EDO) RAM
Installing memory
The internal components of your iMac can be warm. If you've been using your iMac, wait ten minutes after shutting it down to let the internal components cool.
After your iMac cools down, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
- Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
- Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
- Using a Philips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door in the bottom of the computer:
- Remove the access door and set it aside.
- Untuck the tab in the memory compartment. If you're replacing a memory module, untuck the tab and pull it to eject any installed memory module:
- Insert your new or replacement RAM SO-DIMM into the empty slot, noting the orientation of the keyway of the SO-DIMM as shown above.
- After you insert it, press the DIMM up into the slot. There should be a slight click when you seat the memory correctly.
- Tuck the tabs above the memory DIMMs, and reinstall the memory access door:
- Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.
For these 20-inch and 17-inch models
Get memory specifications for the following iMac models, then learn how to install memory in them:
- iMac (20-inch Late 2006)
- iMac (17-inch, Late 2006 CD)
- iMac (17-inch, Late 2006)
- iMac (17-inch, Mid 2006)
- iMac (20-inch, Early 2006)
- iMac (17-inch, Early 2006)
Memory specifications
Number of memory slots | 2 | ||
Base memory | 1GB | Two 512MB DIMMs; one in each of the memory slots | iMac (Late 2006) |
512MB | One DDR2 SDRAM installed into the top slot | iMac (17-inch Late 2006 CD) | |
512MB | Two 256MB DIMMs; one in each of the memory slots | iMac (Mid 2006) | |
512MB | One DDR2 SDRAM installed into the top slot | iMac (Early 2006) | |
Maximum memory | 4GB | 2 GB SO-DIMM in each of the two slots* | iMac (Late 2006) |
2GB | 1GB SO-DIMM in each of the two slots | iMac (17-inch Late 2006 CD) iMac (Early 2006) | |
Memory card specifications | Compatible: - Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR SO-DIMM) format - PC2-5300 - Nonparity - 200-pin - 667 MHz - DDR3 SDRAM | Not compatible: - Registers or buffers - PLLs - ECC - Parity - EDO RAM |
For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot.
*iMac (Late 2006) uses a maximum of 3 GB of RAM.
*iMac (Late 2006) uses a maximum of 3 GB of RAM.
Installing memory in the bottom slot
The internal components of your iMac can be warm. If you've been using your iMac, wait ten minutes after shutting it down to let the internal components cool.
After you shut down your iMac and give it time to cool, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
- Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
- Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
- Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door on the bottom of the iMac and set it aside:
- Move the DIMM ejector clips to their fully open position:
- Insert your RAM SO-DIMM into the bottom slot, keeping in mind the orientation of the keyed SO-DIMM:
- After you insert it, press the DIMM up into the slot with your thumbs. Don't use the DIMM ejector clips to push in the DIMM, as this might damage the SDRAM DIMM. There should be a slight click when you seat the memory fully.
- Close the ejector clips:
- Reinstall the memory access door:
- Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.
Replacing memory in the top slot
After you shut down your iMac and give it time to cool, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
- Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
- Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
- Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door on the bottom of the iMac and set it aside:
- Pull the two levers on each side of the memory compartment to eject the memory module that's already installed:
- Remove the memory module from your iMac as shown below:
- Insert your RAM SO-DIMM into the top slot, noting the orientation of the keyed SO-DIMM:
- After you insert it, press the DIMM up into the slot with your thumbs. Don't use the DIMM ejector clips to push in the DIMM, as this might damage the SDRAM DIMM. There should be a slight click when you seat the memory fully.
- Close the ejector clips:
- Reinstall the memory access door:
- Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.
Memory Brands For Macbook Pro
If your iMac makes a tone after you install memory
iMac models introduced before 2017 might make a warning sound when you start up after installing or replacing memory:
- One tone, repeating every five seconds signals that no RAM is installed.
- Three successive tones, then a five-second pause (repeating) signals that RAM doesn't pass a data integrity check.
If you hear these tones, confirm that the memory you installed is compatible with your iMac and that it's installed correctly by reseating the memory. If your Mac continues to make the tone, contact Apple Support.
Confirm that your iMac recognizes its new memory
After you install memory, you should confirm that your iMac recognizes the new RAM by choosing Apple () menu > About This Mac.
The window that appears lists the total memory, including the amount of memory that originally came with the computer plus the newly added memory. If all the memory in the iMac has been replaced, it lists the new total of all installed RAM.
![Best memory brands for mac Best memory brands for mac](/uploads/1/1/7/7/117736996/144647400.jpg)
For detailed information about the memory installed in your iMac, click System Report. Then choose Memory under the Hardware section in the left side of System Information.
If your computer doesn't recognize the memory or doesn't start up correctly, confirm that the RAM you installed is compatible with your iMac and that it's installed correctly by reseating the memory. If you continue to have issues with the memory in your iMac, contact Apple Support.
MacBook Memory for Model 7.1
MacBook Mid 2010
DDR3-1066Mhz
DDR3-1066Mhz
Maximum Memory: The'Unibody' MacBook Mid 2010 has a system maximum...
MacBook Memory for Model 6.1
Buy Memory For Mac
MacBook Late 2009
DDR3-1066Mhz
DDR3-1066Mhz
Maximum Memory: The'Unibody' MacBook Late 2009 and newer have a...
MacBook Memory Model 5.2 (DDR2-800Mhz Version)
MacBook Mid 2009
DDR2-800Mhz
DDR2-800Mhz
The MacBook Model 5,2 comes in both a DDR2-667Mhz...
MacBook Memory Model 5.2 (DDR2-667Mhz Version)
MacBook Early 2009
DDR2-667Mhz
DDR2-667Mhz
The MacBook Model 5,2 comes in both a DDR2-667Mhz...
MacBook Memory for Model 5.1
MacBook Late 2008 Aluminum
DDR3-1066Mhz
DDR3-1066Mhz
Maximum Memory: The Late 2008 Aluminum MacBook can...
MacBook Memory for Models 3.1 4.1 and 4.2
MacBook Late 2007, Early 2008, and Late 2008
DDR2-667Mhz
DDR2-667Mhz
Maximum Memory: These MacBook models can...
MacBook Memory for Model 2.1
Maximum Memory: The MacBook 2.1 with...
MacBook Memory for Model 1.1
MacBook 13' Original
DDR2-667Mhz
DDR2-667Mhz
Maximum Memory: The early MacBook models that run the...
Find Your Model ID
Follow our step-by-step guide to easily locate your Mac's Model ID.
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Model ID | Description |
---|---|
MacBook Memory for Model 7.1 | MacBook Mid 2010 DDR3-1066Mhz Maximum Memory: The'Unibody' MacBook Mid 2010 has a system maximum of 16GB (2x 8GB SO-DIMMs) if you are running OS Lion (10.7) or above. Older... |
MacBook Memory for Model 6.1 | MacBook Late 2009 DDR3-1066Mhz Maximum Memory: The'Unibody' MacBook Late 2009 and newer have a system maximum of 8GB. Non-Stacked IC's: Ramjet uses a Non-stacked module for the 4GB SO-DIMM... |
MacBook Memory Model 5.2 (DDR2-800Mhz Version) | MacBook Mid 2009 DDR2-800Mhz The MacBook Model 5,2 comes in both a DDR2-667Mhz version and a DDR2-800Mhz version. To find out which version you have, follow our |
MacBook Memory Model 5.2 (DDR2-667Mhz Version) | MacBook Early 2009 DDR2-667Mhz The MacBook Model 5,2 comes in both a DDR2-667Mhz version and a DDR2-800Mhz version. To find out which version you have, follow our |
MacBook Memory for Model 5.1 | MacBook Late 2008 Aluminum DDR3-1066Mhz Maximum Memory: The Late 2008 Aluminum MacBook can be upgraded to a maximum of 8GB when running Snow Leopard (10.6.6) or later and... |
MacBook Memory for Models 3.1 4.1 and 4.2 | MacBook Late 2007, Early 2008, and Late 2008 DDR2-667Mhz Maximum Memory: These MacBook models can run a maximum of 6GB (1x4GB and 1x2GB modules.) Non-Stacked IC's: Ramjet uses a Non-stacked... |
MacBook Memory for Model 2.1 | Maximum Memory: The MacBook 2.1 with the 1.83Ghz processor can only have a maximum of 2GB (2x1GB) installed. All other 2.1... |
MacBook Memory for Model 1.1 | MacBook 13' Original DDR2-667Mhz Maximum Memory: The early MacBook models that run the 'Intel Core Duo' have a maximum memory of 2GB. Non-Stacked IC's: Ramjet uses a Non-stacked... |
Tips and Tools
Mac Tips and Tricks - Gaming on Your Mac
With the new World of Warcraft: Warlords of Draenor expansion scheduled for November and the holiday season computer game releases just around the corner, it’s time to gear up for a whole new level of gaming. After all, you wouldn’t want to step into a PvP arena looking like a newb, would you?
We have gathered a few tips to twink you out prior to game time...
Check out a few of the Ramjet staff’s favorite features:
A custom PC is overrated. Contrary to popular belief, computer gaming need not just pertain to a flashy PC unit. More MACs today have hardware beyond that of the common PC. The MacBook Pro, for instance, is one of the best devices on the market for a windows operating environment. |
Use a wireless mouse on an oversized mousepad. When bullets are flying (or when you need to efficiently run and hide from that level 90 death knight), it’s easy to get overly aggressive with your mouse movement, scrolling, and clicks. A cord holds you back and gets in the way. For a small expense, you can upgrade to a wireless mouse. Add an oversized mouse pad (or use a card gaming mat) to expand your freedom of movement even further. |
Upgrade your RAM. The best places to spend your gold - er, I mean money - is to invest in more RAM and a better video card. RAM allows you to store more games in your computer’s memory. Go beyond Apple specs with Ramjet Plus and can make your Mac perform better than the manufacturer's specifications. |
Build up your coordination and reflexes with other Mac App Store and Steam games. While you and your guildmates await the next big game release, check out the Mac App Store or Steam. Many indie gaming creators have developed entertaining and less-known ways to stimmie boredom during your breaks from high-graphic first person shooters and MMORPGs. You could always keep your reflexes fresh while queueing up for a battleground, too. |
Make Your Battery Last Longer
Everybody loves the portability of a laptop - but how portable is it if you're constantly looking for an outlet to plug in? Here's some tips on how to preserve your laptop battery life.
1. Turn your screen brightness down. One of the easiest ways to save battery power is to turn the screen brightness down. Tap your F1 key to turn your screen brightness down, or open System Preferences, click Displays, and then adjust the screen brightness slider to where you're comfortable. If you want to turn the brightness back up once you're plugged in, just tap the F2 key. Bonus: a less bright screen can also be easier on your eyes.
2. Turn off energy sucking apps running in the background. Sometimes even when you aren't using an app, it's still running, hidden in the background, eating up your battery life. Use your Spotlight search bar to open up Activity Monitor. Select CPU and then click 'All Processes' in the dropdown menu. You'll see a list of all currently running programs and a list of how much %CPU programs are using. If you see anything you're not using that is running at a high percentage, you can select it in the list and click Quit Process to close it down and save some extra battery life.
3. Turn off Wi-Fi & Bluetooth. Unless you're using your laptop to access the internet, you can turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to spare your battery. In the upper right-hand corner of your screen, you will see icons for both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. You can click to turn these icons on and off as needed right from your top menu bar.
4. Turn off the illuminated keyboard. This is a cool feature, especially if you're using the laptop in a low-light situation, but it definitely eats up precious battery life. Go to System Preferences and select Keyboard, then uncheck 'Illuminate keyboard in low light conditions.'
5. Turn on Private Browsing in Safari. This one might surprise you, but by enabling Private Browsing, your laptop will stop using the hard drive to cache webpages, images, and other information while you browse. By accessing the hard drive less, you'll save battery life. Unfortunately, this also means Safari will stop saving autofill information for forms and won't remember your browsing history, so you'll probably want to disable this once you're plugged back in.
Activity Monitor on Your MacBook
If you're considering a MacBook RAM upgrade, here's a sure way to find out if your current system would benefit from installing more Apple RAM. Go to your Applications folder in your Finder window, and look for the Utilities folder. Inside this folder, you will find a handy application called the Activity Monitor. Double click on this application and find the System Memory option at the bottom half of the screen. You can also do a search for Activity Monitor in your Spotlight.
You will find terms used for Free, Wired, Active, Inactive, and Used. The pie chart provided to the right will indicate how much is allocated to each of these terms. The important one to note is Free Memory. If you discover that your pie chart has less than 25% allocated to free memory, it is likely that your MacBook could benefit from an Apple RAM upgrade.
Pay Attention to Page Outs:
Page outs happen when your system has to write information from RAM onto your hard drive because your RAM is full, also called Virtual Memory. This is a sure indication that by adding more MacBook RAM from Ramjet, you should see a substantial increase in your system's speed and overall performance. Using physical RAM rather than relying on Virtual Memory will also save the life of your hard drive, and is faster than Virtual Memory. These are some memory upgrade options for your MacBook machine, organized by Model Identifier.
MacBook RAM Upgrades and More
The MacBook, while now replaced by the MacBook Air line of Mac laptops, is still a great machine and continues to be the main laptop for many Apple users. These machines have seen several updates, from the original 13' MacBook that used DDR2-667Mhz memory to the most recent version from 2010 that used DDR3-1066Mhz. Unlike the MacBook Air, the MacBook has the benefit of being able to be upgraded, while the MacBook Air unfortunately cannot take upgrades either of MacBook RAM or hard drive. It is this upgradeability that has many users still using their MacBook today.
MacBook Memory Slots
Each MacBook has two slots. Memory does not have to be installed in pairs, but these machines do get a slight boost from having a matched pair. In some models, the maximum memory is 6GB, which requires a 4GB and a 2GB DIMM. This configuration, while not getting the boost from being a matched pair, is still a superior configuration than a matched pair of 2GB for 4GB. The additional 2GB of physical RAM with the 6GB configuration more than makes up for the lack of the slight performance boost from a matched pair.
Storage for MacBooks
Installing a larger internal laptop hard drive in your MacBook will require a different process depending on which version of the MacBook you have. However, in both the plastic version of MacBook and the aluminum unibody MacBook, replacing the hard drive is fairly straight forward. The drive is located in the same place in both body styles, but in the plastic version you will remove the battery and then slide out a tray, while in the aluminum MacBook, you need to remove the entire back of the laptop to access the drive location. Further instructions for replacing the hard drive can be found in your machine's installation guide.
MacBook Optibay Replacement Kits
Another option for upgrading your MacBook is to purchase an optibay drive and enclosure. The optibay kits sold by Ramjet are made specifically to fit into your particular MacBook model. The optibay kit will allow you to remove the optical drive in your MacBook and replace it with an additional laptop hard drive, giving you extra storage space without having to replace your main hard drive. You can find more details about Ramjet MacBook Optibay kits in our Optibay blog article.
Where Can I Find My Mac Model ID?
A Mac's Model Identifier, or Model ID, is the surest way to identify the system memory for apple mac computers. First, select 'About This Mac' in your Apple Menu (top left corner). Then, select the 'More Info...' button in the About This Mac window. In the example below, the Model Identifier is for a Mac Pro 2,1 machine. Once you know your MacBook's Model ID, you can shop for Ramjet MacBook RAM by your Model ID.
This will open your Apple System Profiler. The second line in your Hardware Overview section will display the Model ID.
In OS X 10.4 and older, the Model Identifier will be called 'Machine Model.'
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