Sidebar Sidebar
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

Early 2011 MBP RAM question

RedRaven571

RedRaven571

macrumors 65816
Original poster
Mar 13, 2009
1,128
114
Pennsylvania
I'd like to update the RAM on my son's early 2011 13" MBP; he currently has 4GB (2 x 2GB).

My question is, for windows computers, the usual recommendation is to add RAM in matched sets (e.g. - 2 x 4GB; 2 x 8GB); however, the price for a single 8GB stick of RAM is about the same as 2 x 4GB. For macs, would there be an appreciable difference in performance if I added an 8GB stick of RAM in one slot and left one of the original 2GB in the other (total 10GB) or, would it be best to just get 2 x 4GB and replace the existing RAM?
 
For maximum speed minus 10 to 20 % RAM speed loss, one can use mismatched RAM modules though, as that RAM speed loss is hardly noticeable during everyday tasks.
 
RedRaven571 said:
I'd like to update the RAM on my son's early 2011 13" MBP; he currently has 4GB (2 x 2GB).

My question is, for windows computers, the usual recommendation is to add RAM in matched sets (e.g. - 2 x 4GB; 2 x 8GB); however, the price for a single 8GB stick of RAM is about the same as 2 x 4GB. For macs, would there be an appreciable difference in performance if I added an 8GB stick of RAM in one slot and left one of the original 2GB in the other (total 10GB) or, would it be best to just get 2 x 4GB and replace the existing RAM?
Click to expand...
Using matched sets allows the memory to run in dual channel mode. That's true regardless of whether the computer is a PC or Mac.

Unless your son is very demanding on his computer, I doubt he'd notice the performance "loss" from using a mismatched RAM stick.
 
What about just using the 8gb by itself, remove the 2gb to leave 1 slot open and, maybe later add a second 8gb if necessary?

Better or worse than 8 + 2?
 
RedRaven571 said:
What about just using the 8gb by itself, remove the 2gb to leave 1 slot open and, maybe later add a second 8gb if necessary?

Better or worse than 8 + 2?
Click to expand...

Since you'll be using single channel regardless of the 2GB being in there or not, why not leave it in and let your son enjoy the extra 2GB?
 
Thanks to everyone for your input.

Think I'm going to get the single 8gb. That way, later on, all I need to do is get a second 8gb if necessary, rather than replace 2x4gb with 2x8gb.
 
might as well just buy 2 x 8gb do the upgrade as one jon them you never have to worry about doing it again.

Out of interest what is he using it for that 4gb can't cope ?
 
Mr-Kerrse said:
might as well just buy 2 x 8gb do the upgrade as one jon them you never have to worry about doing it again.

Out of interest what is he using it for that 4gb can't cope ?
Click to expand...

He tends to leave apps open, uses Garageband frequently, then complains about the computer being sluggish. He also wants to upgrade to Logic Pro X so I just figured a RAM update would be a good idea.
 
RedRaven571 said:
He tends to leave apps open, uses Garageband frequently, then complains about the computer being sluggish. He also wants to upgrade to Logic Pro X so I just figured a RAM update would be a good idea.
Click to expand...



I run Logic pro X, Traktor etc on 8gb with no issues at all so 8gb will be fine but if your are going to the hassle of upping the ram i would go for 16gb so it's future proof :)
 
Mr-Kerrse said:
I run Logic pro X, Traktor etc on 8gb with no issues at all so 8gb will be fine but if your are going to the hassle of upping the ram i would go for 16gb so it's future proof :)
Click to expand...

Thanks, I already bought the single 8GB stick and am toying with purchasing another (same manufacturer, etc.) to bring it up to 16GB. Out of curiosity, I may see how it performs with 10GB total....
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.
Top Bottom
Back