Interesting facts regarding the RAM upgrade for my Apple Mac.

What does RAM stand for and what does it mean?

RAM stands for random-access memory and it is the short-term memory where data is stored and should not be confused with long-term data that is stored on your hard drive that remains even if your Mac is turned off.

Upgrades will speed up your Mac and prevent the Mac from having to use the hard drive for memory.

Most Macs come with at least two slots for RAM sticks if not more. The question is can my Mac be upgraded after purchase?

27″ iMac

The 27″ iMac has four memory slots and you can install two or more memory modules.

You can add additional memory to the free slots or replace the memory in all the slots. For best performance choose memory modules with close capacities. For example, you will get better performance with two 8GB and two 16GB modules than with using two 8GB and two 32GB modules.

21.5″ iMac

This Mac has two memory slots installed in pairs however the memory should have the same speed for best performance.

These 21.5″ models are difficult to near impossible when it comes to RAM upgrade procedures.

MacBooks

Most Macbooks come with at least two slots if not more whereas the new ones provide four RAM slots.

Recent MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models have the RAM soldered to the motherboard making it impossible to upgrade.

Several older models of Macs can be upgraded but you cannot add RAM to any MacBook Air.

Apple has started soldering its RAM sticks in place making it impossible for users to replace the RAM forcing them to buy a new computer.

Finally:

Although not all Macs can accept new RAM you can improve the performance by cleaning and deleting some files and sorting out your photo library.

The best advice when buying a new Mac is to ensure that you make the best decision on RAM size to suit your needs as you most probably will not be able to change it afterward.

If you would like to know if your Mac can be upgraded contact ZA Support Apple Experts for advice.