Choose your iMac model

• Ram For Macbook Air
• Ram For Mac Mini 2012
• Ram For Mac Mini

Memory for iMacs RAM for iMacs include 4GB, 8GB and 16GB DIMMs. Apple iMac Memory includes Same-Day Shipping. IMac RAM Upgrade from Ramjet.com. For every kind of Apple product there are corresponding limits on the amount and kinds of memory that will work for your machine, and it's important not to damage your computer in the process of upgrading. Optimal setups will run at 1600MHz but be aware that you can scale this down to get larger amounts of Mac RAM without sacrificing functionality.

If you're not sure which iMac you have, you can identify your iMac and then select it from the list below.

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, 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 feature Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots near the bottom of the computer with these memory specifications:

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 feature Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots near the bottom of the computer with these memory specifications: Tycoon games for mac.

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 feature Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots near the bottom of the computer with these memory specifications:

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 near the bottom of the computer with these memory specifications:

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:

1. Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
2. Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
3. Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
4. Open the memory compartment door by pressing the small grey button located just above the AC power port:
5. The memory compartment door will open as the button is pushed in. Remove the compartment door and set it aside:
6. 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:
7. After the memory cage is released, pull the memory cage levers toward you, allowing access to each DIMM slot.
8. 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:
9. Replace or install a DIMM by setting it down into the slot and pressing firmly until you feel the DIMM click into the slot. The DIMM slot shown below is for iMac (27-inch, Late 2013) and iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2014, Mid 2015, and Late 2015). It requires that you insert the DIMM with the notch on the bottom, oriented towards the right:
   iMac (27-inch, Late 2012) and iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017) have the notch on the bottom left:
   
10. After you install all of your DIMMs, push the memory cage levers back into the housing until they click back into place:
    
11. Replace the memory compartment door. You don't need to press the compartment door release button when replacing the compartment door.
12. 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

Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:

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:

1. Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
2. Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
3. Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
4. Using a Philips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door in the bottom of your computer:
   
5. Remove the access door and set it aside.
6. Untuck the tab in the memory compartment. If you're replacing a memory module, gently pull the tab to eject any installed memory module:
   
7. Insert your new or replacement SO-DIMM into the empty slot, noting the orientation of the keyway of the SO-DIMM as shown below.
8. After you insert it, press the DIMM up into the slot. There should be a slight click when you seat the memory correctly:
   
9. Tuck the tabs above the memory DIMMs, and reinstall the memory access door:
   
10. 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:

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:

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:

1. Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
2. Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
3. Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
4. Using a Philips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door in the bottom of the computer:
   
5. Remove the access door and set it aside.
6. 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:
   
7. 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.
8. After you insert it, press the DIMM up into the slot. There should be a slight click when you seat the memory correctly.
9. Tuck the tabs above the memory DIMMs, and reinstall the memory access door:
   
10. Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.

Ram For Macbook Air

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

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.

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:

Tera Term (or TeraTerm) by T. Teranishi is a well-known open source terminal emulator that comes with a SSH module. Unfortunately, there is no information about Tera Term for Mac. However, you might want to try other applications that can easily replace its functions. Teraterm for mac.

1. Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
2. Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
3. Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
4. Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door on the bottom of the iMac and set it aside:
   
5. Move the DIMM ejector clips to their fully open position:
   
6. Insert your RAM SO-DIMM into the bottom slot, keeping in mind the orientation of the keyed SO-DIMM:
   
7. 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.
8. Close the ejector clips:
   
9. Reinstall the memory access door:
   
10. 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:

1. Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
2. Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
3. Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
4. Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door on the bottom of the iMac and set it aside:
   
5. Pull the two levers on each side of the memory compartment to eject the memory module that's already installed:
   
6. Remove the memory module from your iMac as shown below:
   
7. Insert your RAM SO-DIMM into the top slot, noting the orientation of the keyed SO-DIMM:
   
8. 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.
9. Close the ejector clips:
   
10. Reinstall the memory access door:
    
11. Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.

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.

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.

Do you feel like your old MacBook Pro starts to run slower than normal or that it can’t keep pace with the modern applications you’re installing (especially when you’re dealing with heavy photo/video editing tasks)?

Well, you could get the newest Apple MacBook Pro with shiny Touch Bar and speedy SSD storage, and perhaps donate, give away, or simply re-sell your old Mac for the residual value (take these steps if you do).

But, there’s another cheaper yet simpler alternative – you just need to upgrade the RAM (Random-Access Memory), a component of your computer that works in tandem with the drive to load data and quickly complete operations. You can learn more about it from this Wikipedia page.

Inadequate RAM will severely delay the response time of your computer, and upgrading the RAM can make your Mac last a bit longer than if you stuck with the original specs.

Below you’ll find our recommendations on the best RAM for MacBook Pro, covering models from 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012. Please note that models after 2013 have non-removable memory thus can NOT be upgraded.

Quick Summary

Based on your MacBook model, here are the best RAM recommendations for you:

• MacBook Pro Requiring DDR3 1600MHz (some 2011 & 2012 models): Kingston HyperX Impact 16GB or OWC 16.0GB (2x 8GB).
• MacBook Pro Requiring DDR3 1333Mhz (most 2011 models): Corsair 8GB (2x 4GB)
• MacBook Pro Requiring DDR3 1066Mhz (primarily 2010 & 2009 models): Crucial 8GB Kit (4GBx2)
• MacBook Pro Requiring DDR2 667MHz 200 Pin (2008 model): A-Tech DDR2 667 MHz 200-Pin 4GB Kit

These upgrade options were chosen based on their brand reputation, warranties, and reliability. Some items have advanced features such as overclocking while others are widely known for their resilience and speed. You can learn more below.

Who Should Get This?

Should you upgrade your Mac by adding extra RAM? We recommend that you ask these questions first:

• Does your laptop run significantly slower than when you got it?
• Does it freeze more frequently, or struggle with resource-intensive applications like Photoshop and iMovie?
• Does your display frequently only partially load?
• Has multitasking become too taxing on your computer to do effectively?
• When booting your computer, does it take an excessive amount of time?

If these sound like issues you’re currently experiencing, you should consider upgrading RAM to get more out of your MacBook. However, before you purchase any RAM, there are several things you need to pay attention to both in regards to your machine and your purchase.

Ram For Mac Mini 2012

First, check that your RAM is upgradable with this list of user-installation friendly MacBook Pros from Apple. You’ll also want to check the RAM you currently have by opening the Apple Menu and choosing About this Mac. From here, you’ll see a brief overview of your machine, complete with RAM specifications.

Second, make note of how much memory you have, the frequency, and the DDR. You may also want to check if you’re using both or one of your RAM slots by choosing “Memory” from the header.

Keep in mind that you MUST check Apple’s list to know how much RAM your computer can handle. While you can theoretically install more, it is not recommended.

Upgrading RAM will be less useful to those of you who are either not experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, do not engage in frequent multitasking or run apps that are resource intensive, or who are simply looking to make a fast Mac faster (an overkill!).

Buying Extra RAM for MacBook Pro: What to Consider?

Now that you’ve learned all the pre-cautions and probably figured out whether you’ll benefit from RAM upgrade. In this section, we’re going to talk about things you should consider while choosing the best options for your MacBook Pro. Most (except for the much older models) require DDR3 RAM in a particular speed (Macs shipping with newer RAM do not support user-installed upgrades). Since you don’t have much flexibility in that regard, other factors become more important when making a decision.

Brand

While it may seem superficial at first, the brand name carries a lot of weight when it comes to computer parts. Trusted brands have tested their RAMs to make sure they work effectively on your computer, and you should avoid purchasing from a less reputable brand in exchange for a price cut.

Warranty

We don’t like to think about what can go wrong, but warranties are important when it comes to the investments you’ve made in your Mac. Make sure to purchase RAM that features a warranty enough to cover you for at least several years.

Reliability

Most RAM from well-known brands won’t have issues with reliability, but you should always read reviews of those who have a similar system to you just to make sure that your risk of errors is minimized. You’re also going to want your RAM to last a while, so doing good research is a must (that’s also why we spent hours to make this buying guide available.)

The Best RAM for an Old MacBook Pro: Our Picks

Once again: MacBook Pro models after 2013 are unable to add extra RAM due to that they have non-removable internal memory.​

1. Kingston HyperX Impact 16GB (2 x 8G)

Available in several frequencies and therefore useful for a wider range of Macs, the Kingston HyperX FURY RAM is designed to bring speed and power to your laptop, especially if you want to manipulate advanced features.

• Pros: Lifetime warranty with technical support, comes with automatic overclocking to give you better speed without purchasing higher frequency RAM.
• Cons: Some configuration may be necessary if you don’t want to overclock, or need to underclock.

2. Corsair 8GB (2x 4GB)

Corsair is one of the most reputable brands in the market, purchasing its RAM means you’re sure to get a high-quality product that won’t fail anytime soon. The brand has also won several awards for their product quality. This RAM comes in a pack of two 4GB sticks, which will boost your MacBook Pro to 8GB of memory in total.

• Pros: Technical support is available via phone, email, and forum. There’s also a limited lifetime guarantee.
• Cons: Plastic cover that comes with the memory may need to be removed before installing in order for the RAM to fit in your MacBook Pro.

3. Crucial 8GB Kit (4GBx2)

For those with older MacBook Pros (especially models from 2008 – 2010), Crucial offers brand name reputability and quality RAM for your machine. You’re guaranteed top-tier performance from RAM that will last for many more years.

• Pros: You have the flexibility to get it as a single stick or in a kit.
• Cons: It’s more useful for older MacBook Pros, limited lifetime warranty doesn’t support RAM that has been overclocked or otherwise modified.

Ram For Mac Mini

4. A-Tech DDR2 667MHz 200-Pin 4GB Kit

For 2008 model MacBook Pros, you’re going to have a hard time finding the correct RAM to upgrade your machine which can at most support 4GB. A-Tech fills in the gap by offering reliable RAM with the necessary 200 pin count and a 2x2GB sticks.

• Pros: Maximum amount of RAM for applicable Macs, lifetime warranty, and available customer support.
• Cons: Brand is less well known as competitors.

A Few More Words

Always backup the data on your MacBook Pro before installing any extra memory, just in case. You can use Time Machine (free and built-in app on any Macs), or an advanced backup software like Acronis True Image that offers several convenient features that Time Machine doesn’t have.
Also, if you’re a non-tech person, questions like how to install RAM should be on the top of your head, which is why a step-by-step guide like this will help you get things right. While you aren’t at a huge risk of ruining your Mac by installing RAM yourself, there are some points you definitely don’t want to miss along the way.

Again, Apple has this official installing guide along with their list of compatible RAM. It includes information for both more recent and older MacBook Pro models. If you prefer to watch video tutorials, this one from OWC (removing and installing memory to a 15-inch MacBook Pro 2011-2012) is worth checking out:

Once everything is properly installed, make sure to test your new RAM with a program such as Memtest (see this CNET article for more), which will catch any errors or issues before they have a chance to cause damage.