I just ordered a 2018 MacBook Pro with 15" screen and went with the standard 16 GB of memory. I can't seem to find a direct answer anywhere on the internet for the following question: Is it possible to upgrade this to 32 GB in the future, even if it means paying a fee for Apple to perform the installation?
Problem 1) Except for the new i9 processor available on the latest MacBook Pro, none of the other processors used in MacBook Pro models have the Hardware capability to address more than 16GB of RAM, ever.
Problem 2) For greatly increased reliability, recent MacBook Pro memory and drive components are not in sockets, they are soldered directly to the mainboard using surface-mount technology. No upgrades of RAM Memory or Internal Drives are possible after purchase.
Problem 1) Except for the new i9 processor available on the latest MacBook Pro, none of the other processors used in MacBook Pro models have the Hardware capability to address more than 16GB of RAM, ever.
Problem 2) For greatly increased reliability, recent MacBook Pro memory and drive components are not in sockets, they are soldered directly to the mainboard using surface-mount technology. No upgrades of RAM Memory or Internal Drives are possible after purchase.
Based on the slight shade I feel being thrown in the responses, I get that now. Well my question and answer is out there now for any other cavepeople who got their 2009 MBP to last them nine years.
I do have the newest MBP and there was a 32 GB RAM option, but I'm confident that I'll be fine with 16 GB RAM. The most memory-intensive stuff I do involves digital audio workstation software running relatively low track counts with minimal plugins.
I also want to add that the reason I asked this question here is because I read some things online about the new MBP memory not being *user* accessible, which in my mind left open the possibility that Apple may be able to perform the upgrade themselves...looks like they can't...good to know.
FWIW, even if it were possible, Apple would not do it (and never had done it) - they only repair or replace with the exact same model/function/capacity. You'd need to go to an authorized service provider or do it yourself.
"Do it yourself" is not really an option any more. Surface-mount technology means you need some very specialized tools, including a board-heater that runs upwards of US$2,000. and special soldering irons as well. There is also a slight risk it may never work again.
This situation is like upgrading the engine in a car to the bigger engine that was available as an option when the car was new.
While this is also possible, it is so expensive you are far better off converting your current working device into Cash (by selling it) and buying a different (new or used) model that better meets your needs.
I can't seem to find a direct answer anywhere on the internet for the following question: Is it possible to upgrade this to 32 GB in the future, even if it means paying a fee for Apple to perform the installation?
That's because it's common knowledge that it is not possible. If you wanted 32 GBs, you needed to specify that at the time of purchase.
Cave people aside, user upgradable RAM on MacBook Pros disappeared 6 years ago with the introduction of Mid 2012 models. There was much complaining about it when it happened, but since it all started with the introduction of the MacBook Air in 2008, 10 years ago, it was pretty much handwriting on the wall.
Ok that's probably why when I searched this community for "upgrade macbook pro memory" all the threads were several years old...My mistake, I'm shamefully backing out of this thread doing the "we're not worthy" handwaving thing.
Yep, that non-Retina 2012 model was the last user upgradable RAM model. It was sold a number of years after 2012, until the last few years or so. I think it was meant to be kind of a lowest cost model and possibly geared toward educational or institutional sales.
No.
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No.
Well you can upgrade, but it means selling the one you have and buying a 32 GB RAM model.
Point of purchase only. User upgradable is a thing of the past.
Yes, thanks, I'm aware of that; my comment was meant as a general observation for any model/make/year as Apple has never done post purchase upgrades.
I believe those were the Retina models; I have a refurb mid 2012 i5 MBP purchased last year which I easily upgraded to an SSD and more RAM and yes, that was the last user upgradeable model.
It works great with the SSD and more RAM and the best part is that I'm covered with Applecare until early 2020. Not bad for a 2012.
Upgrade memory on 2018 MacBook Pro?
