2018 8GB Mac mini self upgradeable to 32GB??

[techno-Zen]

Hello. I just wanted to confirm that if I buy the 8GB model that it is self upgradable? I know it's a little more work than in the past.. but I'm definitely going the crucial.com route

Thank you.

 

[DTF]

Yes, just follow these instructions and you'll be fine. Make sure you get the tools you need too, don't try and improvise.
https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Mac+mini+Late+2018+Memory+(RAM)+Replacement/115309

 

[techno-Zen]

Thank you!

 

[russell_314]

Thank you!

If you're comfortable with taking apart laptops it's not so bad. Be very careful disconnecting plugs because they're easy to break. The memory is "not user upgradeable" according to Apple but I think that's because it's not easy. My advice is watch the video all the way through then while you're doing it. Don't get in a rush or impatient. Do it one step at a time and then double check each step. I upgraded mine and it has no issues.

 

[yukari]

Just upgraded mine a few days ago. Not difficult at all. Took me about 15 min. Just be careful with the cables.

 

[techno-Zen]

If you're comfortable with taking apart laptops it's not so bad. Be very careful disconnecting plugs because they're easy to break. The memory is "not user upgradeable" according to Apple but I think that's because it's not easy. My advice is watch the video all the way through then while you're doing it. Don't get in a rush or impatient. Do it one step at a time and then double check each step. I upgraded mine and it has no issues.

Yeah. I'm not too worried about the task. I am in IT I just didn't know if Apple for whatever reason soldered in the RAM on the 8GB model

 

[Adapsys]

Apple will upgrade the RAM in store if you have a spare £950! Yes, that really is what they quoted me!

 

[russell_314]

Yeah. I'm not too worried about the task. I am in IT I just didn't know if Apple for whatever reason soldered in the RAM on the 8GB model

The SSD is soldered but not the the RAM. You should have no issues replacing it

 

[tagumcity]

I installed 32 GB promptly, the motherboard took “a little push” to break loose and slide out. I “filleted” my thumb but all is well and I’m good to go! Eventually I’ll add Noctua thermal compound but there is no hurry to do so based on the research. I’m “all in” on the Mac mini and plan to add a eGPU and M.2 external drive.

 

[MikeGS3]

Did the upgrade myself too. In total I went through the whole procedure about 6 times, as my initial 2 x 16GB RAM sticks from Crucial were faulty.

So even though the cable connections are delicate, they survived 6 goes. So as long as you get the right tools, set yourself up comfortably and take your time, you should be all good. I followed the I fix it guide too.