Q: Can I buy memory directly from Apple?

1. No, unless you’re configuring a model which can’t have its RAM upgraded later.

2. It depends on the vendor. Choose one such as OWC or Crucial.

(138832)

No, Apple does not sell memory.

Make sure you get it from a place that says it will work with your Mac or money back. Here is one

http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/Apple_MacBook_MacBook_Pro/Upgrade

Crucial is another good place

Yes, you can buy it at an Apple Store, but you will save by purchasing via mail order from other vendors. There is little or no difference between memory from Apple or elsewhere. May even be the same manufacturers. I highly recommend these vendors: OWC, DataMem, and Crucial. Be sure you check your computer's documentation to get the required specs for your model.

How to identify MacBook Pro models

How to find the Model ID

To find the model identifier open System Profiler in the Utilities folder. It's displayed in the panel on the right.

Yes, that is true. However, you can probably do it yourself (depending on what model  Macbook Pro you have)  which is free.  my suggestion is to go with what has been suggested before.  Find out what kind of ram you need by going to the Apple icon at the top left of your screen, then "About this Mac" then choose "system report" and it'll tell you what ram is installed and what kind it is,  write that info down somewhere, order the ram from a reputable dealer, when it arrives,

find a guide on how to install it (it's not that hard, trust me on this one), and then install it.... and no, Apple doesn't sell extra ram. You can get it installed, but as you said, if you do so, you'll be paying Apple's prices for that.

good luck

John b