Is it difficult to install a new HD into a iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2014, 16 GB) or add RAM?

Hi, TurksCap, yes the RAM is easy to upgrade in your iMac Late 2014. The max RAM it’ll support is 32 Gb. Here’s the guide from Apple on that : Install memory in an iMac - Apple Support (CA)

as for the hard drive/storage… hmmm… Apple does not support individuals upgrading the hard drive/SSD in that model and year of iMac. That’s not to say that it can’t be done… it can be… but it’s difficult/tricky..and unless you absolutely know what you’re doing, I’d leave it to an Apple Authorized Service Provider ( AASP) . If you go to apple.com/support… then click on the flag to set your country… then go to the repair part of the webpage, then there should be an option for finding an AASP near you… give ‘em a call or contact them, make an appointment with ‘em, tell ‘em what you want to do and take your iMac in. I’d also suggest, of course that you do and have a backup of your iMac going… eg Time Machine or carbon copy cloner ( in your case) and an external drive of one kind.. yeah, sadly, most of the higher capacity SSD’s are more expensive than more conventional hard drives.. however, they make up for that with faster access time so your iMac will seem to be faster… i’d go with a reputable vendor Eg, OWC , www.Macsales.com) ..a 4TB SSD for that model of iMac would be $579 USD plus shipping+ taxes…

so that’s it I guess..

john B

I can add a little information to the great post by Johnb-one above. Using the install kit, drive and instructional video from OWC, I was able to replace my old hard drive in a 2013 iMac with an SSD in about 45 minutes. The improvement in computer speed was very impressive.

You’re welcome, TurksCap… that’s why I ( and we) are here -to ask questions, get some info, some answers and hopefully help each other out…

john b