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iMac OWC Memory Upgrades
Memory Upgrades for Apple iMac
One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to improve the performance of your iMac is to increase the RAM (Random Access Memory). More memory means your iMac can better handle multitasking between programs, perform faster during most day-to-day tasks, and it will also be less susceptible to spinning beachballs and crashes. If you work with large files or use memory-intensive applications, maxing out your RAM is a must.
Select your iMac model Change Mac model
27" iMac with Retina 5K Display (2019 - 2020)
Up to 128GB of memory
- iMac20,2
- iMac20,1
- iMac19,1
21.5" iMac with Retina 4K Display (2019)
Up to 64GB of memory
- iMac19,2
iMac Pro (2017)
Up to 512GB of memory
- iMacPro1,1
27" iMac with Retina 5K Display (2017)
Up to 64GB of memory
- iMac18,3
21.5" iMac with Retina 4K & Non-Retina Display (2017)
Up to 64GB of memory
- iMac18,1
- iMac18,2
27" iMac with Retina 5K Display (Late 2015)
Up to 64GB of memory
- iMac17,1
27" iMac with Retina 5K Display (Late 2014 & Mid 2015)
Up to 32GB of memory
- iMac15,1
27" iMac (2012 - 2013)
Up to 32GB of memory
- iMac13,2
- iMac14,2
21.5" iMac (2012 - 2013)
Up to 16GB of memory
- iMac13,1
- iMac14,1
- iMac14,3
27" & 21.5" iMac (Mid & Late 2011)
Up to 32GB of memory
- iMac12,1
- iMac12,2
27" & 21.5" iMac (2010)
Up to 32GB of memory
- iMac11,2
- iMac11,3
27" & 21.5" iMac (Late 2009)
Up to 32GB of memory
- iMac11,1
- iMac10,1
24" & 20" iMac (Early & Mid 2009)
Up to 8GB of memory
- iMac9,1
24" & 20" iMac (2008)
Up to 6GB of memory
- iMac8,1
24" & 20" iMac (2007)
Up to 6GB of memory
- iMac7,1
24", 20" & 17" iMac (2006)
Up to 4GB of memory
- iMac4,1
- iMac4,2
- iMac5,1
- iMac5,2
- iMac6,1
20" & 17" iMac G5
Up to 2.5GB or memory
- PowerMac8,1
- PowerMac8,2
- PowerMac12,1
20", 17" & 15" iMac G4
- PowerMac4,2
- PowerMac4,5
- PowerMac6,1
- PowerMac6,3
13.8" iMac
Up to 1GB of memory
- iMac,1
- PowerMac2,1
- PowerMac2,2
- PowerMac4,1
How much RAM does an iMac have?
The amount of RAM on an iMac depends on the model, year, and how it is configured to order. For example, the following models all come with 4GB of base memory:
- 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)
Some older iMacs, like the Late 2006 model, have 1GB base memory installed. Newer iMac models, such as the Retina 5K and 27-inch 2019 and 2020 models, come with 8GB base memory.
Fortunately, If you need more memory for better and faster performance, iMac RAM upgrades are possible with any of the iMac models available, and OWC is here to help.
What kind of RAM does iMac use?
Installing the correct type of RAM is crucial when you're ready to do an iMac memory upgrade. iMacs come in different configurations. Some have four memory slots, while others have two slots. They all use DIMM memory, and installing iMac RAM modules with the same capacity, speed, and vendor is a good idea.
For example, suppose you want to add more RAM to an iMac Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017 model. If that's the case, you'll want to use PC4-2400 (1900), Unbuffered, Nonparity, 260-pin, 2400MHZ DDR4 SDRAM SO-DIMM modules.
You can find the correct RAM you need at OWC. With OWC iMac RAM upgrades, you can have up to 4x more memory vs. factory options (Retina 5K, 27-inch (2019 - 2020).
How much RAM should I get for my iMac?
An iMac memory upgrade is a great way to make a meaningful improvement in your Mac’s performance. The amount of RAM you add depends on the situation and how you plan to use your iMac.
For example: Suppose you plan to use your iMac for basic computing tasks, such as making spreadsheets, Internet browsing, watching movies, or editing photos and videos as a hobby. In that case, 8GB of RAM is sufficient.
However, if you’re using an iMac professionally for work or high-end gaming, you’ll want to upgrade your iMac’s RAM to at least 16GB. This will improve your computer’s performance, especially if you’re running several applications simultaneously or doing photo and video editing.
How can I upgrade my iMac memory?
If you own a 27-inch iMac, upgrading the memory is simple and should only take about five minutes to complete. In the back of each 27-inch iMac, there is a small memory bay door that houses the memory cage. After opening this door, you can easily access and pull out the original memory and replace it with any other Apple-compatible memory modules.
If you own a 21.5-inch iMac or an iMac Pro, the memory upgrade process is more advanced and involves removing and reinstalling the iMac screen to access the memory. We recommend professional installation for these models to ensure you upgrade your iMac RAM safely.
Since the debut of the Apple iMac in 1998, OWC has offered Apple-compatible memory upgrades for any Apple iMac desktop. To make the memory installation process as stress-free and straightforward as possible, we provide step-by-step installation videos to walk users through the upgrade process and expert technical support, who are more than happy to answer any questions you may have. All OWC brand memory is thoroughly tested and assured to perform flawlessly with your iMac and is covered by a Lifetime Advance Replacement Warranty and a Money-Back Guarantee.