macBook pro Ram Upgrade 8GB or 10GB

A matched pair of SO DIMM allows the computer to operate more efficiently. A couple years ago my IT class tested two Macs first with matched sets and then with mismatched sets of RAM - same quality and speed, just different sizes. When the computers had matched pairs of RAM they performed their tasks an average of about 10% faster. There appeared to be no difference in battery consumption.

dwb wrote:

When the computers had matched pairs of RAM they performed their tasks an average of about 10% faster.

10 is more than 10% greater that 8.

Ciao.

A 2010 MBP can recognize up 16 GB RAM per OWC testing. The fact is that matched pairs of RAM modules will be more efficient than mismatched pairs of RAM modules. The mismatched scenario that you propose (10 GB) will have more RAM for use by the OSX and will result in better performance but NOT by very much due to the fact there is the gross mismatch.

Ciao.

The 10 GB installation will have a slight advantage to the 8 GB installation but the 2 GB advantage will be negated some what by the fact the OSX cannot use mismatched modules as efficiently as a matched pair.

Ciao.

charith lahiru wrote:

option 1 - should i buy 2x 4gb ram and throw existing ram away ? - total 8gb

This is the best option.

Best.