RAM: How to upgrade to 16GB

[xghostofme]

Hey guys,

I've done a lot of research, and I've posted about this before.. but got no answers. I'm gonna keep it short and sweet this time and not go too into detail.

I have an 27" iMac 10,1 (late 2009) model.

It supports up to 16GB of DDR3 PC3-8500 1066MHz SO-DIMM memory.

To ensure full compatibility, I am looking to purchase 16GBs of RAM and will be replacing the original factory installed RAM, as I understand different chips can cause problems.


MY QUESTION:

Must I buy 1 package with 4x4GB chips... or can I buy 2 packages with 2x4GB each?

Will either of these options make a difference in compatibility?

 

[Lancer]

best place to start is somewhere like crucial.com, you can search for your model so you know you'll get the right RAM, link below for the Late 2009 iMac.

http://www.crucial.com/store/listparts.aspx?model=iMac (21.5 and 27-inch, Late 2009)

As far as I know most RAM comes in packs of 2, and right now 2x 8Gb for you iMac is $70, so $140 total plus shipping.

ETA - sorry that was for a total of 32Gb, I'd check to see if you can do 32Gb in the 2009.

2x 4Gb is $42, so $84 plus shipping for 16Gb.

 

[bobcan]

That model (iMac 10,1) should be 4x Slots and capable of 16GB as you have stated.. I am quite sure there is No Benefit to either 4x 4GB or 2x 8GB from any I have ever done upgrades on, so purchase as you feel best suits you.. ** as I look on Newegg for any specials I see that there are likely NO 8GB single stick options, and so that answers that!!

So, about the question, a couple of 2x 4GB packages is just FINE, as that is essentially what went into my friend's iMac a couple of months back as well.. It was Mushkin Ram and seems as good as Crucial for the 6 or 7 computers I have put it into, USA made and a good warranty as well.. Looks like about $60-65 per 2x4GB set as of today ~ Unfortunately RAM prices seem to have increased in the past few months.. Oh well, still a good upgrade for the price!!

 

[xghostofme]

That model (iMac 10,1) should be 4x Slots and capable of 16GB as you have stated.. I am quite sure there is No Benefit to either 4x 4GB or 2x 8GB from any I have ever done upgrades on, so purchase as you feel best suits you.. ** as I look on Newegg for any specials I see that there are likely NO 8GB single stick options, and so that answers that!!

So, about the question, a couple of 2x 4GB packages is just FINE, as that is essentially what went into my friend's iMac a couple of months back as well.. It was Mushkin Ram and seems as good as Crucial for the 6 or 7 computers I have put it into, USA made and a good warranty as well.. Looks like about $60-65 per 2x4GB set as of today ~ Unfortunately RAM prices seem to have increased in the past few months.. Oh well, still a good upgrade for the price!!

thanks man! appreciate the help

 

[iF34R]

How much ram do you have in there now?

If you're already at 8GB, just get a 2x4GB pair, that matches the specs you need, and you'll be fine.