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DDR3 vs DDR3L

I couldn't find much on google, so I thought I'd ask here.


I simply just want to know the difference between the two RAM modules with regular Macbook Pro (DDR3) and the RD (DDR3L). I noticed that DDR3 only maxes out to 8GB, while the DDR3L goes to 16, but I was thinking is the DDR3L (Lite?) not as powerful and therefore can be upgraded to 16GB to compensate, thereby being about the same in power as 8GB of DDR3?


Thanks,

Josh

Posted on Aug 8, 2012 9:37 AM

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Posted on Aug 8, 2012 9:50 AM

DDR3L = low voltage.


A lot of Mac's can accept more memory than Apple says because the RAM modules wasn't in production at the time of the machines release, use the free MacTracker to determine.


http://eshop.macsales.com/installvideos/

18 replies

Jan 6, 2013 9:51 AM in response to iJoshG8

I realize this is an older thread - but if you see this - can you point me to where there is something in writing online or anywhere that says the MBP 2012 13" (non Retina) 2.5 or 2.9 specs say what Bimmer wrote above (and is the answer that solved)? I want to buy one today but want to know about the RAM specs first. Thanks so I can possibly save some dollars and buy RAM elsewhere.


Bimmer wrote:

"2012 Macbook Pro = 16GB DDR3L 16000MHz RAM is the Max - but you can also use DDR3"

Jan 10, 2013 10:27 AM in response to ParrotPal

You can't upgrade the RAM after purchase. It's soldered in, so is the battery. Max out the RAM on the order. I'm amazed at this too because I'm also in the market for a new macbook pro. It looks like the Apple's direction on the laptops is to attach a keyboard to an iPad and say "here you go for a few years until the battery dies", then buy a new one. BTW don't forget that you will eventually need an external optic drive for the occasional loading or burning.

Oct 5, 2013 12:08 PM in response to KevinAndrewFalk

Just a guess based on previous macs. Weakest link in the chain and all that.


"They" always said that about different ram on a G4 iBook, PC2100 and PC2700. Also "they" said to pair the sticks up. Never tested because I stuck with similar sticks.


I looked up the DDR3 1600MHz pc12800 on crucial.com and their sticks are listed as 1.35V instead of 1.5V.


Call the seller before you buy adn check their exchange policy in any case.


geo

Sep 27, 2015 3:01 PM in response to iJoshG8

There is quite a lot of confusion out there concerning the latest computer ram modules.. (all computers) I have done some research and come up with these tidbits that should clear things up


DDR3L = Dual voltage ram that will operate at either 1.35 V or 1.5V (determined by the system), also identified as PC3L

DDR3L will default to the correct voltage, measuring variation between Vdd and Vddq


DDR3 = Single voltage ram that will only operate at 1.5V also identified as PC3 (will not work in the later machines requiring DDR3L)


In Summary = If you are going to upgrade memory, simply purchase the DDR3L (also identified as PC3L) and all the guess work goes away.

Sep 27, 2015 3:05 PM in response to Bimmer 7 Series

This reference to DDR3L only being 1.35V is incorrect

DDR3L is dual voltage and will work in either 1.35V or 1.5V applications. It measures the variation between Vdd and Vddq to determine operational voltage


your statement that DDR 3 is 1.5V only is correct.


The default purchase going foreword should always be DDR3L as its compatible with all systems early and late

DDR3 vs DDR3L

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