If you’re comfortable with opening your machine, you can save a significant amount of money upgrading Mac mini RAM yourself. Check these out. Luckily, this guide from iFixit+Replacement/115309) will walk you through every step of the process. Remove both SO-DIMM modules. Step 7: You’ll next need to remove the fan. Mac mini Late 2018 The long-awaited refresh of the popular Mac mini. To upgrade the memory in the Aluminum "Unibody" Mac mini models released before and after the Late 2014 models, Apple has made it straightforward. RAM availability varies by country and region. UPDATE (08/27/20) – The Apple 2018 Mac Mini 8,1 is now officially supported with ESXi 6.7 Update 3 which requires the latest ESXi 6.7 Patch 03 which also incorporates automatically setting the ESXi Advanced Setting for Thunderbolt 3 access. If you’re a little more patient and a little more skilled, you could probably do it the way iFixit recommends in their picture guide. Those aren't exactly easy to find. Ask Question Asked 1 month ago. The happier news is you can install up to 64GB of RAM in the 2018 Mac Mini, though as you only have two slots available, the only way to achieve this is with a pair of 32GB sticks. Step 15: Install the two new SO-DIMM RAM modules — ensuring the the notch is positioned correctly — and making sure they are firmly seated into place. More. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Apple recently brought a desperately-needed refresh to the Mac mini, which included faster processors, memory, storage, and more. He takes pride in being able to explain things in a simple, clear and concise manner. 2014. Jeff produces videos, walkthroughs, how-tos, written tutorials and reviews. Changing out the RAM in the Mac Mini used to be a really simple process. While the RAM is a standard sized SO-DIMM module and replaceable by anyone who buys a 2018 Mac Mini, it's far from as simple to accomplish, at least compared to what it used to be back in 2012. After four long years, Apple has finally brought the Mac mini back to life with a 2018 update that just might have been worth the wait. In this hands-on video walkthrough, we show you how to upgrade the RAM in the 2018 Mac mini. Sit the back cover aside. Eventually, 64GB of RAM will increase in availability and come down in price. It used to be a matter of unscrewing the bottom and swapping the RAM sticks, a process that took a matter of minutes. To upgrade the memory in your Mac mini (2018), go to an Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider. The Logic board assembly should slide completely out of the Mac mini housing. You can buy each of the aforementioned tools individually, but all of these tools are provided in iFixit’s Pro Tech Toolkit. Sound off in the comments below with your thoughts and opinions. If you don't need this much, simply grab a 16GB kit made up of a pair of 8GB RAM sticks. Step 12: Unclip and slide out the logic board assembly by gently applying pressure to the ears (where the screw holes are) of the exhaust vent. Sit the antenna plate aside. Slide off the shield to reveal the SO-DIMM slots containing the RAM. i am going to stick with apple products for while, and perhaps i will buy that Mac mini 2018 … With up to six-core processors and user upgradeable RAM, the new Mac Mini is a truly tiny powerhouse. Watch our video above for a full walkthrough. Turn the SSD over so it's upside down and the screws from step 15 are facing the edge of the Mac Mini. Though it's intended for desktop use, the Mac mini is portable, but you'll need a pretty powerful battery to keep it running. Here are the best portable batteries you can trust right now. Upgrading the RAM in the 2018 Mac mini isn’t what I would call simple, but it can be done relatively easily with a little patience and know-how. Watch our step-by-step hands-on video walkthrough for the details. Subscribe to 9to5Mac on YouTube for more Apple news: FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. https://9to5mac.com/2018/11/20/how-to-upgrade-ram-2018-mac-mini-video You could upgrade to 32GB yourself and save about $400 in the process. Step 5: Do not fully lift off the antenna plate, because the antenna is still fastened to this plate. Although the machine still remains the cheapest way to buy a brand new Mac from Apple directly, the price has ballooned from $499 to $799 for the entry-level model. If you don't need this much, simply grab a 16GB kit made up of a pair of 8GB RAM … To help offset some of the cost, I decided to upgrade the Mac mini RAM myself instead of choosing to upgrade during the build-to-order process. Unfortunately, the new M1 Mac mini is only upgradeable to 16GB, while the older Mac mini can be configured up to 32GB and 64GB. It's time to discontinue the Apple Watch Series 3, Concept: Enhancing AirTag with family sharing and more, You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Subscribe to 9to5Mac on YouTube now for more videos. Step 2: Place a soft towel on a flat surface where you can rest your Mac mini face down without scratching the Apple logo or space gray anodized aluminum surface. Unfortunately, two 32GB memory modules are still fairly rare, and quite expensive. Step 16: Perform the steps in reverse order to put the Mac mini back together! 2018 Mac mini Teardown: User-Upgradeable RAM, But Soldered Down CPU and Storage ... "Back in the day, a Pro Mac meant a computer you could upgrade… And to be honest, this is just the minimum amount in 2020; most users will notice a significant leap in performance by upgrading to 16GB of RAM. Connect the same ribbon cable to the new SSD's SATA connectors. Mac mini (Late 2014) has memory that is integrated into the main logic board and can't be upgraded. For just over $200, however, you can get a Crucial 32GB SO-DIMM DDR4 RAM kit that will make a terrific upgrade to any 2018 Mac Mini. Three of the screws are 4.1 mm screws and three of them are 1.8 mm screws. When buying a new Mac Mini, increasing the RAM to 16GB costs $200, 32GB costs $600, and 64GB an eye-watering $1,400. To minimize the possibility of damage to the computer components due to static … Start by removing the four screws that secure the fan to the logic board and exhaust vent. The RAM isn't easily accessible and requires a little know-how and a lot of patience to get at. Be sure to watch the full video above, because it explains the process in a way that’s much better than static pictures. Unlike previous models, you cannot upgrade the internal hard drive. New 2018 Mac Mini: Pro machine in a tiny, upgradeable package. Instead, gently lift the plate to avoid putting stress on the antenna wire and locate the screw securing down the antenna to the logic board. After just doing the process once, I’m confident I could install memory in a 2018 Mac mini in less than 20 minutes. Editor at iMore, part time racing driver, full time British guy. No, it's not easy No, it's not easy All you do is drop the GPU card into the slot, plug in the power connectors, and close it back up. Apple Mac Mini Desktop Computer, 3.0GHz 6-Core Intel Core i5, 16GB Memory, 512GB SSD, Gigabit Ethernet (Late 2018 with a 2020 SSD Upgrade) $1,299.00 $ 1,299 . The long awaited Mac mini update is finally here, giving buyers a massive increase in … Replacing the hard drive or hard drives is a more complicated procedure and Apple does not support users performing this upgrade themselves. Remove the fan and sit it aside. I wasn’t good enough to do this, so I settled on removing each pin from the connector instead. Apple introduced a new model of the Mac mini in late 2018, bringing the compact Mac up to date with new processor options and a more environmentally friendly casing, among other changes. It'll take some time and a lot of patience to install, but if you're a demanding Mac user, this RAM kit will serve you well. What do you think about upgrading RAM in the 2018 Mac mini? Place a credit card or a small nylon tool underneath the hard drive to pry … Also: Yes, it's possible to upgrade a 2018 Mac Mini's RAM. The new Mac Mini is a powerhouse little machine, complete with Pro features and the ability to add a … The 2018 Mac mini can accommodate up to 64GB of RAM, and features two SO-DIMM slots. Active 1 month ago. 2012, 2011, 2010. Late 2018 Mac mini RAM Upgrade Video Finally, OWC provides a specific video for the current "Late 2018" ( Macmini8,1 ) models: After watching these videos, it should be clear that upgrading the RAM is a simple procedure in aluminum Mac mini models released prior to … Upgrading RAM in the 2018 Mac mini isn’t what I would call super-easy, but it’s definitely not difficult, and it is doable if you have the right tools, exercise patience, and are careful. Mac Mini 2018 teaches an old design new tricks. In all, I saved about $300 on the Mac mini RAM install after factoring in the iFixit Toolkit purchase. Before you begin. Apple Updates the Mac Mini for 2018. by Sean Thomas. Step 9: Disconnect the power supply cable. How to upgrade the RAM on the new 2018 Mac mini | AppleInsider After some time with the long-awaited update to Apple's mini PC, we're impressed overall -- but still have one big reservation. Both the 2020 Mac mini and the 2018 Mac mini start with 8GB of RAM. How to upgrade RAM in the 2018 Mac mini and save money [Video]. But thanks to the USB-C interface on the new Mac Mini, an external SSD drive is now a good option. Step 11: Remove the two 7.5 mm screws securing the logic board in place with a T10 Torx screwdriver. 00 Get it as soon as Fri, Apr 23 The rewards will be worthwhile, but you'll basically be disassembling your Mac Mini in order to do a RAM upgrade. Check out 9to5Mac on YouTube for more Apple news: Launched in 2005 as the first sub-$500 Mac — a key in attracting "switchers" from Windows PCs — the Mac mini (now $799 and up from the Apple Store) was most recently redesigned in late 2018. Needless to say, as noted in our 2018 Mac mini review, we thought it proved to be a great upgrade. Note: It is recommended that you use an anti-static strap throughout this tutorial. Source: iMore. The sweet spot appears to be two 16GB modules, which will give you 32GB of RAM in the 2018 Mac mini. The 2018 Mac Mini arrived as a long-awaited follow up to Apple's tiny desktop computer and it came bearing good news: You could once again take out the RAM and upgrade it yourself. Apple uses standard SO-DIMM modules for the memory in the Mac mini, meaning you can buy RAM at a much cheaper price and install it yourself. You may also have to remove the two rubber inserts on each side of the RAM modules. Step 1: Power down your Mac mini and remove all cables and accessories. We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. How to Upgrade RAM For Mac Mini. Learn how to upgrade or replace the memory in your 2018 Mac mini with this RAM replacement guide. Adamanta 64GB (2x32GB) Memory Upgrade for 2019 & 2020 Apple iMac 27" (iMac 19,1 iMac 20,1 iMac 20,2) Retina 5K Display, 2018 Mac Mini DDR4 2666Mhz PC4-21300 SODIMM 2Rx8 CL19 1.2v DRAM RAM 4.8 out of 5 stars 86 Instant Hotspot. RAM for the 2018 Mac mini should meet the following requirements: Note: For the record, Apple recommends that all 2018 Mac mini RAM upgrades be performed by an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider. 2018 Mac mini: RAM, fan. The Mac mini 2018 … But at Apple's big October event in 2018, it finally happened: The Mac Mini got the … Step 3: With the bottom cover facing up, use an opening tool, such as the one provided in iFixit’s excellent Pro Tech Toolkit, and gently pry off and remove the back cover. If you find yourself looking for a DVD drive for your Mac mini, here are a few options to consider. The hard drives in the new 2018 Mac mini are PCIe which means they are very fast, but also expensive. Step 4: Remove the six Torx security screws that secure the antenna plate. It's always best to use matching pairs when installing RAM for best performance. Or you could always just pay Apple the upgrade price to configure the amount of RAM that you need during the build-to-order process. RAM Upgrade on 2018 Mac mini. However, after the late 2012 Mac Mini, Apple changed the internals, so you couldn't do it yourself anymore. Remove the old hard drive. The best wireless mechanical keyboard for Apple users. The Mac mini is easy to carry around. Crucial Memory and SSD upgrades - 100% Compatibility Guaranteed for apple mac-mini-models - FREE US Delivery Crucial Memory and SSD upgrades - 100% Compatibility Guaranteed for apple mac-mini-models - FREE US Delivery ... Mac mini (2018) Mac mini (2020) Mac mini (Early 2006) Mac mini (Early 2009) Mac mini (G4 - 1.25GHz) October 30, 2018. Step 10:  Disconnect LED indicator connector from the logic board. Despite the move back to DIY, if you want more RAM you're shouldn't be stuck paying what Apple wants to charge you for it. Apple advises allowing an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider to do the upgrade. Although it isn’t a requirement to use iFixit’s tools, I think it’s worth it for anyone who likes to tinker with electronics, as it will no doubt come in handy in the future. Follow him on Twitter and Google+, To make your Mac mini truly portably, a powerful battery pack is necessary, Protect your Mac mini in transit with these cases, Looking for a DVD drive for your Mac mini? I just purchased 64GB of RAM that's compatible with my 2018 Mac mini, but in no way shape or form do I trust myself enough to make the installation myself. Step 13: Remove the four 2.8 mm screws securing the RAM shield using a T5 Torx screw driver. This means that you’ll want to upgrade using one of the following configurations: The base Mac mini comes with two 4GB memory modules for a total of 8GB of RAM. Once the screws are removed, be sure to put them in a place where they won’t be lost. Learn more. I used iFixit’s excellent Mac mini tear down and RAM replacement guides to help me out during this video walkthrough, and I highly recommend supporting their work. Is it something you’d consider doing to save money? Viewed 45 times 0. Be sure to check out. 60 Questions View all Using a business card again for support, slide the new SSD into place until the screws lock into place on the bracket inside the Mac Mini. iFixit recommends pulling straight up on the connector with tweezers. The Mac Mini had not received a meaningful update in four years. Many Apple users will be happy getting an upgrade at an Apple store or doing so via a tech professional. It is soldered in. Apple charges $600 for a 32GB Mac mini upgrade, but I ordered 32GB of Crucial RAM from Amazon for less than half of what Apple charges. That’s definitely not the ideal way of removing the cable, but it worked for me. Those aren't exactly easy to find. Apple Mac mini 2018 MRTR2LL/A MRTT2LL/A BTO/CTO A1993 3213 Macmini8,1 3.6GHz 3.0GHz 3.2GHz Genuine Parts, Upgrades & Accesories Here are our favorite solutions. M1 MacBook Pro deal at Amazon: Save $199 instantly! That said, if you’re at all uneasy about performing such an upgrade yourself, I definitely recommend calling on Apple support for help. Introduction. The mini can support up to 64 GB of RAM, using any combination of 8 GB, 16 GB, or 32 GB DDR4-2666 SODIMM RAM modules. When refastening the antenna plate, make sure you use the right screws in the right places. The happier news is you can install up to 64GB of RAM in the 2018 Mac Mini, though as you only have two slots available, the only way to achieve this is with a pair of 32GB sticks. *The 2018 Mini’s RAM is upgradeable, but its a much more complex process than that of the 2010-2012 Minis. That's never been close to as cheap as it is to make the same upgrade yourself. Requires an iPhone or iPad with cellular connectivity, a Lightning connector or USB … 2018 Mac mini specs Processor: Intel Core i3-8100 quad-core CPU / Intel Core i5-8500B six-core CPU (configurable with Intel Core i7-8700B six-core CPU) Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 Step 6: Once the antenna screw is removed, gently lift the connector off its socket on the logic board. Therefore, proceed at your own risk. In most makes of Mac Mini you can't upgrade the processor - for models released since 2009, processors have been soldered onto the motherboard. The good news is that you can use this tutorial to do whatever RAM upgrade you wish to do on your Mac mini. Processor options include 3.6 GHz quad-core Intel Core i3, 3.0 GHz 6-core Intel Core i5, and 3.2GHz 6-core Intel Core i7 processors. However, the one major downside of the new Mac mini is its cost. Mac mini 2018, if you deside to upgrade at purchase time, the Mac mini with 32gb ram, 1tb SSD, core i7 will be very expensive, we are talking about a couple of thousind dollars!. When you do, however, be sure your Apple computer is being protected by a case or sleeve. The best wireless headphones for Apple users. Best answer: It's not the easiest process to complete, but you can definitely replace and upgrade the RAM in the 2018 Mac Mini. Step 14: Remove the RAM by spreading the tension clips away from the memory modules. Step 8: Once the screws are removed, gently lift the fan and detach its connector from its socket on the logic board. For just over $200, however, you can get a Crucial 32GB SO-DIMM DDR4 RAM kit that will make a terrific upgrade to any 2018 Mac Mini. 'S never been close to as cheap as it is recommended that you during. 16Gb modules, which will give you 32GB of RAM, and quite.. 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