Can I Run My Macbook Pro with One Stick of RAM/Memory

It will run, but not efficiently. Make certain that the RAM specifications are; 204-pin PC-10600 (1333 MHz) DDR3 SO-DIMM. I also suggest that you retain one of the original 2 GB chips in the other RAM bay.

Ciao.

You'll be bale to use the 10GB of RAM - it won't be as fast and efficient as a matched set, but it will work.

Installing RAM in a 2011-2012 MacBook Pro

There is really only one way to install RAM into a 2011-2012 MacBook Pro and while there are hundreds of DIY videos online, I just like this one, found on YouTube, by “macmixing”.

Note that there is a difference in the RAM that should be used in 2011 and 2012 models.

2011 models must use:

•204-pin PC-10600 (1333 MHz) DDR3 SO-DIMM

And 2012 models must use:

•204-pin PC3-12800 (1600 MHz) DDR3 SO-DIMM

So here's the video:

Remember that the 13", 15" and 17" 2011 models (early or late) and the 13" and 15" mid-2012 non-Retina models can handle 4GB, 8GB or (unofficially, but, believe me, it works) 16GB of RAM. There are, in my opinion, only three 100% Mac-compatible vendors out there: Corsair, Crucial and OWC. I really can't recommend any other brands, even though it may work, as these are the only brands that I've personally used in quite a while. Also remember to stay away from any RAM that is a “value” brand - Macs are picky about RAM and often these value RAM modules just don’t work very well.

Good luck,

Clinton

Hi, a very similar question. I ordered 4GB from crucial to upgrade a 2GB Macbook Pro (mid 2009).

I was expecting to get two 2GB cards.

But they have sent me just 1 4GB one.

So now I am not sure:

- is it best to leave one slot empty

- or leave one of the 1GB cards in place (giving a total of 5GB).

I was expecting 4GB to be more than enough for my needs.

And if I do use two cards, does it matter which of the two slots I use for the larger card?

Many thanks for any help

Pete

So, I decided to just give it a try.

Opened it up.

Couldn't decipher the markings on the existing cards.

So I put in one stick, leaving the top slot empty.

Runs fine.

Where I was swapping before, I now have 1.25GB free according to Activity Monitor (physical memory - memory used = memory free).

🙂

FYI PC3-12800 1600MHz DDR3 will work in 2011 (early or late) MBP's.

I've had in my 13" for some time (16GB Corsair Vengeance kit).