Imac 27 2017 Ram Slots
Apple iMac (27-inch, Radeon Pro 580, 2017) mned2lla $1,399.00 Apple iMac (27-inch, Radeon Pro 575, 2017) mnea2lla $1,454.96. However, in a full teardown of the iMac Pro, site sponsor OWC discovered that it has four memory slots with the default 32 GB of memory installed as four 288-pin 8 GB modules (4 x 8 GB). Unfortunately, OWC also determined that it was possible to install 64 GB memory modules in four slots (256 GB of RAM total), but Apple had limited the system.
prsjnb
Plus Member
Wiltshire, U.K.
If you haven't already done so, in addition to the memory you should consider upgrading to an SSD (the largest you can comfortablly afford and ideally larger than 512GB) for your OS and programmes. As an example, the Crucial MX500 is listed as a compatible upgrade at £65.00.
Other than the above, your looking at a change of computer to one with a similar amount of memory and SSD.
You might also want to consider ditching Photoshop and switching to something leaner and less resource hungry but similarly capable. For example Serif Affinity Photo link
Hope this helps.
Jon😉
Bertie54
Plus Member
South Staffs
Look up your exact model using the upgrade advisor on the Crucial or Kingston websites. Both of these produce top quality memory and guarantee comparability with a no quibble warranty (I speak from experience). I checked on the Crucial site and entered the 2017 model as an example. For a 32GB kit, 2 x 16GB, the price was £119.00 inc. VAT and P&P.
If you haven't already done so, in addition to the memory you should consider upgrading to an SSD (the largest you can comfortablly afford and ideally larger than 512GB) for your OS and programmes. As an example, the Crucial MX500 is listed as a compatible upgrade at £65.00.
Other than the above, your looking at a change of computer to one with a similar amount of memory and SSD.
You might also want to consider ditching Photoshop and switching to something leaner and less resource hungry but similarly capable. For example Serif Affinity Photo link
Hope this helps.
Jon😉
Thanks Jon, I am stuck with Photoshop as I have it free for a year. I don’t think it helps that I also run AutoCad software which is hungry and of course the time machine is backing up to a separate hard drive as well.
The machine has a 2.12TB Fusion Drive most of which is available, I think the slots are just for operational stuff and I can free them up with CleanMyMac to an extent so hopefully the extra will sort it. I can also double the capacity of the two existing slots and the eBay seller says he would give me £32.00 for them in exchange.
To order 2x 8 GB cards from Apple costs £360 and 2x 16GB cards are £720,
That's outrageous ! barkin wrote:
To order 2x 8 GB cards from Apple costs £360 and 2x 16GB cards are £720,
That's outrageous !
I think I paid something like an extra £360 to upgrade from 8GB basic to 16GB when I ordered it directly from Apple. RobL wrote:
barkin wrote:
To order 2x 8 GB cards from Apple costs £360 and 2x 16GB cards are £720,
That's outrageous !
I think I paid something like an extra £360 to upgrade from 8GB basic to 16GB when I ordered it directly from Apple.
And the moral of this story is... barkin wrote:
RobL wrote:
Quote:
To order 2x 8 GB cards from Apple costs £360 and 2x 16GB cards are £720,
That's outrageous !
I think I paid something like an extra £360 to upgrade from 8GB basic to 16GB when I ordered it directly from Apple.
And the moral of this story is...
That's Apple for you K-3 II, K-3 and a K-70 from SRS (having now relegated the K-30 /'K-50' to a backup body), & some Sigma and Pentax lenses (and a lot of old 35mm gear!)
Choose your iMac model
If you're not sure which iMac you have, you can identify your iMac and then select it from the list below.
27-inch
24-inch
21.5-inch
- iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2019)*
- iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2017)*
- iMac (21.5-inch, 2017)*
- iMac (21.5 inch, Mid 2014)*
- iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2013)*
- iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2012)*
20-inch
17-inch
* Memory is not removable by users on iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2012), iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2013), iMac (21.5-inch, Mid 2014), iMac (21.5-inch, 2017), iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2017) and iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2019). If the memory in one of these computers needs repair service, contact an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider. If you’d like to upgrade the memory in one of these models, an Apple Authorised Service Provider can help. Before you schedule an appointment, confirm that the specific Apple Authorised Service Provider offers memory upgrade services.
Memory in iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2015) and iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, Late 2015) is not upgradeable.
iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2020)
Get memory specifications for iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2020), then learn how to install memory in this model.
Memory specifications
This iMac model features Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots on the rear of the computer near the vents with these memory specifications:
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 8 GB (2 x 4 GB DIMMs) |
Maximum memory | 128 GB (4 x 32 GB DIMMs) |
For optimal memory performance, DIMMs should be the same capacity, speed and supplier. Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
- PC4-21333
- Unbuffered
- Nonparity
- 260-pin
- 2666MHz DDR4 SDRAM
If you have mixed capacity DIMMs, see the install memory section for installation recommendations.
iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2019)
Get memory specifications for iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2019), then learn how to install memory in this model.
Memory specifications
This iMac model features Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots on the rear of the computer near the vents with these memory specifications:
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 8 GB (2 x 4 GB DIMMs) |
Maximum memory | 64 GB (4 x 16 GB DIMMs) |
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
- PC4-21333
- Unbuffered
- Nonparity
- 260-pin
- 2666MHz DDR4 SDRAM
iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017)
Get memory specifications for iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017), then learn how to install memory in this model.
Memory specifications
This iMac model features Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots on the rear of the computer near the vents with these memory specifications:
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 8 GB (2 x 4 GB DIMMs) |
Maximum memory | 64 GB (4 x 16 GB DIMMs) |
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
- PC4-2400 (19200)
- Unbuffered
- Nonparity
- 260-pin
- 2400MHz DDR4 SDRAM
iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015)
Get memory specifications for iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015), then learn how to install memory in this model.
Memory specifications
This iMac model features Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots on the rear of the computer near the vents with these memory specifications:
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 8 GB |
Maximum memory | 32GB |
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
- PC3-14900
- Unbuffered
- Nonparity
- 204-pin
- 1867MHz DDR3 SDRAM
For these 27-inch models
Get memory specifications for the following iMac models, then learn how to install memory in them:
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Mid 2015)
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2014)
- iMac (27-inch, Late 2013)
- iMac (27-inch, Late 2012)
Memory specifications
These iMac models feature Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots on the rear of the computer near the vents with these memory specifications:
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 8 GB |
Maximum memory | 32GB |
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
- PC3-12800
- Unbuffered
- Nonparity
- 204-pin
- 1600MHz DDR3 SDRAM
Installing memory
The internal components of your iMac can be warm. If you've been using your iMac, wait ten minutes after shutting it down to let the internal components cool.
After you've shut down your iMac and given it some time to cool down, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
- Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
- Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
- Open the memory compartment door by pressing the small grey button located just above the AC power port:
- The memory compartment door will open as the button is pushed in. Remove the compartment door and set it aside:
- A diagram on the underside of the compartment door shows the memory cage levers and the orientation of the DIMM. Locate the two levers on the right and left sides of the memory cage. Push the two levers outwards to release the memory cage:
- After the memory cage has been released, pull the memory cage levers towards you, allowing access to each DIMM slot.
- Remove a DIMM by pulling the module straight up and out. Note the location of the notch on the bottom of the DIMM. When reinstalling DIMMs, the notch must be orientated correctly or the DIMM won't fully insert:
- Replace or install a DIMM by setting it down into the slot and pressing firmly until you feel the DIMM click into the slot. When you insert a DIMM, make sure you align the notch on the DIMM to the DIMM slot. Find your model below for specific installation instructions and notch locations:
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2020) DIMMs have a notch on the bottom, slightly to the left of the centre. If your DIMMs are mixed in capacity, minimise the capacity difference between Channel A (slots 1 and 2) and Channel B (slots 3 and 4) when possible.
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2019) DIMMs have a notch on the bottom, slightly to the left of the centre:
- iMac (27-inch, Late 2012) and iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017) DIMMs have a notch on the bottom left:
- iMac (27-inch, Late 2013) and iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2014, Mid 2015, and Late 2015) DIMMs have a notch on the bottom right:
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2020) DIMMs have a notch on the bottom, slightly to the left of the centre. If your DIMMs are mixed in capacity, minimise the capacity difference between Channel A (slots 1 and 2) and Channel B (slots 3 and 4) when possible.
- After you've installed all of your DIMMs, push both memory cage levers back into the housing until they've locked into place:
- Replace the memory compartment door. You don't need to press the compartment door release button when replacing the compartment door.
- Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.
Your iMac performs a memory initialisation procedure when you first turn it on after upgrading memory or rearranging DIMMs. This process can take 30 seconds or more, and the display of your iMac remains dark until it's finished. Make sure you let the memory initialisation complete.
For these 27-inch and 21.5-inch models
Get memory specifications for the following iMac models, then learn how to install memory in them:
- 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)
Memory specifications
Number of memory slots | 4 |
Base memory | 4 GB (but is configured to order) |
Maximum memory | 16GB For iMac (Late 2009), you can use 2 GB or 4 GB RAM SO-DIMMs of 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM in each slot. For iMac (Mid 2010) and iMac (Mid 2011), use 2 GB or 4 GB RAM SO-DIMMs of 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM in each slot. |
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
iMac (Mid 2011) | iMac (Mid 2010) | iMac (Late 2009) |
PC3-10600 | PC3-10600 | PC3-8500 |
Unbuffered | Unbuffered | Unbuffered |
Nonparity | Nonparity | Nonparity |
204-pin | 204-pin | 204-pin |
1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM | 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM | 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM |
i5 and i7 Quad Core iMac computers come with both top memory slots populated. These computers will not start up if only a single DIMM is installed in any bottom slot; these computers should operate normally with a single DIMM installed in any top slot.
Core Duo iMac computers should operate normally with a single DIMM installed in any slot, top or bottom. ('Top' and 'bottom' slots refer to the orientation of the slots in the pictures below. 'Top' refers to the slots closest to the display; 'bottom' refers to the slots closest to the stand.)
Installing memory
The internal components of your iMac can be warm. If you've been using your iMac, wait ten minutes after shutting it down to let the internal components cool.
After you've shut down your iMac and given it some time to cool down, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
- Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
- Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
- Using a Philips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door in the bottom of your computer:
- Remove the access door and set it aside.
- Untuck the tab in the memory compartment. If you're replacing a memory module, gently pull the tab to eject any installed memory module:
- Insert your new or replacement SO-DIMM into the empty slot, noting the orientation of the keyway of the SO-DIMM as shown below.
- After you've inserted it, press the DIMM up into the slot. There should be a slight click when you seat the memory correctly:
- Tuck the tabs above the memory DIMMs, and reinstall the memory access door:
- Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.
For these 24-inch and 20-inch models
Get memory specifications for the following iMac models, then learn how to install memory in them:
- iMac (24-inch, Early 2009)
- iMac (20-inch, Early 2009)
- iMac (24-inch, Early 2008)
- iMac (20-inch, Early 2008)
- iMac (24-inch Mid 2007)
- iMac (20-inch, Mid 2007)
Memory specifications
Imac 2017 Memory
These iMac computers have two side-by-side Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) slots in the bottom of the computer.
The maximum amount of random-access memory (RAM) you can install in each computer is:
Computer | Memory Type | Maximum Memory |
iMac (Mid 2007) | DDR2 | 4 GB (2 x 2 GB) |
iMac (Early 2008) | DDR2 | 4 GB (2 x 2 GB) |
iMac (Early 2009) | DDR3 | 8 GB (2 x 4 GB) |
You can use a 1 GB or 2 GB RAM module in each slot for iMac (Mid 2007) and iMac (Early 2008). Use 1 GB, 2 GB or 4 GB modules in each slot for the iMac (Early 2009).
Use Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules (SO-DIMM) that meet all of these criteria:
iMac (Mid 2007) | iMac (Early 2008) | iMac (Early 2009) |
PC2-5300 | PC2-6400 | PC3-8500 |
Unbuffered | Unbuffered | Unbuffered |
Nonparity | Nonparity | Nonparity |
200-pin | 200-pin | 204-pin |
667MHz DDR2 SDRAM | 800MHz DDR2 SDRAM | 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM |
DIMMs with any of the following features aren't supported:
- Registers or buffers
- PLLs
- Error-correcting code (ECC)
- Parity
- Extended data out (EDO) RAM
Installing memory
The internal components of your iMac can be warm. If you've been using your iMac, wait ten minutes after shutting it down to let the internal components cool.
After your iMac has cooled down, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
- Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
- Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
- Using a Philips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door in the bottom of the computer:
- Remove the access door and set it aside.
- Untuck the tab in the memory compartment. If you're replacing a memory module, untuck the tab and pull it to eject any installed memory module:
- Insert your new or replacement RAM SO-DIMM into the empty slot, noting the orientation of the keyway of the SO-DIMM as shown above.
- After you've inserted it, press the DIMM up into the slot. There should be a slight click when you seat the memory correctly.
- Tuck the tabs above the memory DIMMs, and reinstall the memory access door:
- Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.
For these 20-inch and 17-inch models
Get memory specifications for the following iMac models, then learn how to install memory in them:
- iMac (20-inch Late 2006)
- iMac (17-inch, Late 2006 CD)
- iMac (17-inch, Late 2006)
- iMac (17-inch, Mid 2006)
- iMac (20-inch, Early 2006)
- iMac (17-inch, Early 2006)
Memory specifications
Number of memory slots | 2 | ||
Base memory | 1 GB | Two 512 MB DIMMs; one in each of the memory slots | iMac (Late 2006) |
512 MB | One DDR2 SDRAM installed into the top slot | iMac (17-inch Late 2006 CD) | |
512 MB | Two 256 MB DIMMs; one in each of the memory slots | iMac (Mid 2006) | |
512 MB | One DDR2 SDRAM installed into the top slot | iMac (Early 2006) | |
Maximum memory | 4 GB | 2 GB SO-DIMM in each of the two slots* | iMac (Late 2006) |
2 GB | 1 GB SO-DIMM in each of the two slots | iMac (17-inch Late 2006 CD) iMac (Early 2006) | |
Memory card specifications | Compatible: - Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR SO-DIMM) format - PC2-5300 - Nonparity - 200-pin - 667 MHz - DDR3 SDRAM | Not compatible: - Registers or buffers - PLLs - ECC - Parity - EDO RAM |
For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot.
*iMac (Late 2006) uses a maximum of 3GB of RAM.
Installing memory in the bottom slot
The internal components of your iMac can be warm. If you've been using your iMac, wait ten minutes after shutting it down to let the internal components cool.
After you've shut down your iMac and given it some time to cool down, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
- Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
- Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
- Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door on the bottom of the iMac and set it aside:
- Move the DIMM ejector clips to their fully open position:
- Insert your RAM SO-DIMM into the bottom slot, keeping in mind the orientation of the keyed SO-DIMM:
- After you've inserted it, press the DIMM up into the slot with your thumbs. Don't use the DIMM ejector clips to push in the DIMM, as this may damage the SDRAM DIMM.There should be a slight click when you seat the memory fully.
- Close the ejector clips:
- Reinstall the memory access door:
- Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.
Replacing memory in the top slot
After you've shut down your iMac and given it some time to cool down, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power cord and all other cables from your computer.
- Place a soft, clean towel or cloth on the desk or other flat surface to prevent scratching the display.
- Hold the sides of the computer and slowly lay the computer face-down on the towel or cloth.
- Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the RAM access door on the bottom of the iMac and set it aside:
- Pull the two levers on each side of the memory compartment to eject the memory module that's already installed:
- Remove the memory module from your iMac as shown below:
- Insert your RAM SO-DIMM into the top slot, noting the orientation of the keyed SO-DIMM:
- After you've inserted it, press the DIMM up into the slot with your thumbs. Don't use the DIMM ejector clips to push in the DIMM, as this may damage the SDRAM DIMM.There should be a slight click when you seat the memory fully.
- Close the ejector clips:
- Reinstall the memory access door:
- Place the computer in its upright position. Reconnect the power cord and all other cables to the computer, then start up the computer.
If your iMac makes a tone after you install memory
Imac 2017 Ram Upgrade
iMac models introduced before 2017 might make a warning sound when you start up after installing or replacing memory:
Ram For Imac 27 2017
- One tone, repeating every five seconds signals that no RAM is installed.
- Three successive tones, then a five-second pause (repeating) signals that RAM doesn't pass a data integrity check.
If you hear these tones, confirm that the memory you installed is compatible with your iMac and that it's installed correctly by reseating the memory. If your Mac continues to make the tone, contact Apple Support.
Confirm that your iMac recognises its new memory
After you've installed memory, you should confirm that your iMac recognises the new RAM by choosing Apple () menu > About This Mac.
The window that appears lists the total memory, including the amount of memory that originally came with the computer plus the newly added memory. If all the memory in the iMac has been replaced, it lists the new total of all installed RAM.
Imac 27 Ram Upgrade
For detailed information about the memory installed in your iMac, click System Report. Then choose Memory under the Hardware section in the left side of System Information.
Imac 27 Inch 2017
If your computer doesn't recognise the memory or doesn't start up correctly, confirm that the RAM you installed is compatible with your iMac and that it's installed correctly by reseating the memory. If you continue to have issues with the memory in your iMac, contact Apple Support.