Upgrade RAM on a MacBook Pro
A quick and relatively inexpensive way to improve your MacBook's performance is to upgrade the RAM. This is a simple task that does not require any special computer expertise and takes about 10 minutes, or less. Note that the images from this article are from a {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} 2.5 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo MacBook Pro, but the steps are general to many other Mac laptops. Note that recent MacBook Pros do not have removable memory that you can upgrade. These steps do not apply to retina display MacBook Pros manufactured after 2012.
Steps
- Purchase the desired amount of memory of the correct type. A good place to find them is on Amazon, or Ebay. Go to "About this Mac" under the Apple menu in your finder. The type of memory will be listed there. If you are able, it is a good idea to get the maximum amount of RAM your machine can run. Technical specifications regarding this amount are available from Apple.
- Gather together your new RAM, your laptop, and a small jeweler's or eyeglass-sized Phillips screwdriver. Power down your laptop and unplug it. Make sure you are working in a clean, dry, dust-free area.
- Power down your laptop and turn it over to expose the battery. Loosen the battery by pulling the sliders back. It will pop up slightly when it releases.
- Lift your battery and remove it to expose the battery compartment.
- Using the screwdriver, expose the memory compartment by removing the three small screws that secure it. Place these aside in a container so that they do not get lost.
- Remove the first RAM stick. The stick is secured by two silver metal clips on either side. With your fingers, gently press these outward. When the clips release, the stick will angle upward slightly, and will slide out with gentle pressure. If you find yourself needing to pull with any substantial force, you probably have not released the stick fully.
- Repeat the process with the second memory stick. The photo shows the second memory stick after it has released from the clips. Note how it is tilted upward slightly.
- Insert your new memory sticks by reversing the process described above. As shown in the photo, your sticks have a notch in them that prevents them from being inserted backwards, so do not worry about that. Make sure you align them with the slot angle, and press in firmly but gently. If you need a lot of pressure, you probably have the angle wrong.
- Close your memory compartment by fastening with the three small screws. Insert your battery pack. Power your computer on.
- Check your "About this Mac" to make sure your new memory is recognized.
- Enjoy your more powerful Macbook Pro.
Tips
- A wide variety of reputable online stores sell RAM online, and prices can vary substantially between them. Shop around and you can often find very good deals.
Warnings
- If at any time, substantial force appears to be required, stop. You are likely to break something. Nothing in this process should be difficult or a very tight fit.
- Never touch the contacts of the new or old memory modules. Always hold them on the edges.
