To identify your MacBook Pro model, use the information in How to identify MacBook Pro models.
- How To Clear Memory On My Macbook Pro
- How To Clean Up Memory On My Macbook Pro
- Free Up Memory On Mac
- How To Clear Memory On My Macbook Air
Once you're sure which model you have, find it in the list below to go to the instructions for that model. Note: Apple notebooks not listed in this table have non-removable memory.
| 13-inch | MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2012) |
| 15-inch | MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012) |
| 17-inch | MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2011) MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2011) MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010) MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2009) MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2008) and earlier |
- Open Activity Monitor. Click on the Memory tab. Click the Memory column to sort processes by Memory usage. This will make it easier to see which process or app is hogging the RAM.
- Choose Apple menu About This Mac and then click Storage. Each segment of the bar is an estimate of the storage space used by a category of files. Move your pointer over each segment for more detail. Click the Manage button to open the Storage Management window, pictured below.
To quickly find and safely remove cache files on your Mac, you can use a special software tool: MacCleaner Pro. The app scans your hard drive and automatically finds all the cache files in just a few seconds. Then, all you need to do to remove caches is to select them from the Clean up Mac section and click the Clean Up button. Remove Login Items to Lower Mac Memory Usage. Login items are the ones that load.
Applicable Models
The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro (13-inch) models:
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2012)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2011)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Early 2011)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2010)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2009)
Memory specifications
Use the tables below to confirm the memory you're installing is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
| MacBook Pro (13-inch, mid 2012) | |
| Number of memory slots | 2 |
| Base memory | 4 GB |
| Maximum memory | 8 GB |
| Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 67.6mm x 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-12800 DDR3 1600 MHz type RAM |
| Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
| MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2011) and MacBook Pro (13-inch, Early 2011) | |
| Number of memory slots | 2 |
| Base memory | 4 GB |
| Maximum memory | 8 GB |
| Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 67.6mm x 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-10600 DDR3 1333 MHz type RAM |
| Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
| MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2010) and MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2009) | |
| Number of memory slots | 2 |
| Base memory | 4 GB |
| Maximum memory | 8 GB |
| Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format -30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM |
| Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
Removing or installing memory
Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.
Step 1: Remove the bottom case
- Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, USB cables, security lock, and any other cables connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
- Turn over your MacBook Pro and remove the ten (10) screws that secure the bottom case. Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place. Lift off the case and place it to the side.
- Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)
- Push the levers on the sides of the memory module in an outward direction to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you don’t, try pressing the levers outward again.
- Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
- Remove the other memory module.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the gold connectors.
Step 3: Install memory
- Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
- Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
- Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
- Repeat this procedure to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.
Note: Make sure you install the memory according to this illustration, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.
Step 4: Replace the bottom case
Replace the bottom case. Replace and tighten the ten screws you removed earlier, making sure to put the different length screws in their proper locations.
Applicable Models
The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 15-inch models:
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2011)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2011)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2010)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2.53GHz Mid 2009)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2009)
Memory specifications
Please use the tables below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
| MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012) | |
| Number of memory slots | 2 |
| Base memory | 4 GB |
| Maximum memory | 8 GB |
| Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-12800 DDR3 1600 MHz type RAM |
| Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
| MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2011) and MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2011) | |
| Number of memory slots | 2 |
| Base memory | 4 GB |
| Maximum memory | 8 GB |
| Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-10600 DDR3 1333 MHz type RAM |
| Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
| MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2010), MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2.53GHz Mid 2009), MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2009) | |
| Number of memory slots | 2 |
| Base memory | 4 GB |
| Maximum memory | 8 GB |
| Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM |
| Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot. |
Removing or installing memory
Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.
Step 1: Remove the bottom case
- Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, USB cables, security lock, and any other cables connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
- Turn over your MacBook Pro and remove the ten (10) screws that secure the bottom case. Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place. Lift off the case and place it to the side.
- Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)
- Push the levers on the sides of the memory module in an outward direction to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you don’t, try pressing the levers outward again.
- Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
- Remove the other memory module.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the gold connectors.
Step 3: Install memory
- Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
- Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
- Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
- Repeat this procedure to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.Note: Make sure you install the memory according to this illustration, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.
Step 4: Replace the bottom case
Replace and tighten the ten screws you removed earlier, making sure to put the different length screws in their proper locations.
Applicable model
The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 15-inch models:
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008)
Memory specifications
Please use the table below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
| MacBook Pro (15-inch, late 2008) | |
| Number of memory slots | 2 |
| Base memory | 2 GB |
| Maximum memory | 4 GB |
| Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 1 GB or 2 GB - 204-pin - PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM |
| Additional notes | For best performance, fill both memory slots and install an identical memory module in each slot. |
Removing or installing memory
Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.
Step 1: Remove the access door
- Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, security lock, and any other cords connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
- Turn over your MacBook Pro and locate the latch. Push down to release the latch and remove the access door that covers the battery and hard drive.
- The latch must be in its released, open position to remove the access door.
Step 2: Remove the battery
With the latch still in its open position, gently pull up on the tab to remove the battery.
Step 3: Remove the bottom case
- Remove the eight screws that secure the bottom case of your MacBook Pro, and then remove the bottom case.
Important: Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place. - Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Step 4: Remove existing memory (if present)
- Push out the ejection levers on the sides of the memory module to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you don’t, try pressing the ejection levers again.
- Hold the memory module by the notches and remove it from the slot.
- Remove the other memory module.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.
Step 5: Install memory
- Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
- Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
- Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
- Repeat, if necessary, to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.
Note: Make sure you install the memory according to the illustration below, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.
Step 6: Replace the bottom case
Replace the bottom case. Replace and tighten the eight screws.
Step 7: Replace the battery
To replace the battery, make sure the latch is in its open position. Hold the battery at an angle and slide the lipped edge of the battery below the brackets on the outside edge of the battery bay. Gently press the battery down.
Step 8: Replace the access door
With the latch in the open position replace the access door, making sure it is level with the bottom case of your MacBook Pro, and press the latch into the closed position.
Applicable models
The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 17-inch models:
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2011)
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2011)
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010)
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2009)
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009)
Memory specifications
Use the tables below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
| MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2011) and MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2011) | |
| Number of memory slots | 2 |
| Base memory | 4 GB |
| Maximum memory | 8 GB |
| Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 67.6mm x 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-10600 DDR3 1333 MHz type RAM |
| Additional notes | You can add two 4 GB memory modules for a maximum of 8 GB of memory. For best performance, fill both memory slots and install an identical memory module in each slot. |
| MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010), MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2009), and MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009) | |
| Number of memory slots | 2 |
| Base memory | 4 GB |
| Maximum memory | 8 GB |
| Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 2 GB or 4 GB - 204-pin - PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM |
| Additional notes | You can add two 4 GB memory modules for a maximum of 8 GB of memory. For best performance, fill both memory slots and install an identical memory module in each slot. |
Removing or installing memory
Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.
Step 1: Remove the bottom case
- Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, USB cables, security lock, and any other cables connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
- Turn over your MacBook Pro and remove the ten (10) screws that secure the bottom case. Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place. Lift off the case and place it to the side.
- Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)
- Push the levers on the sides of the memory module in an outward direction to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you can't find the notches, try pressing the levers outward again.
- Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
- Remove the other memory module.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.
Step 3: Install memory
- Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
- Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
- Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
- Repeat this procedure to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.
Note: Make sure your memory is installed according to the illustration below, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.
Step 4: Replace the bottom case
Replace the bottom case. Replace and tighten the ten screws you removed earlier, making sure to put the different length screws in their proper locations.
Applicable models
The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 15-inch and 17-inch models:
- MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2008) and earlier
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2008) and earlier
Memory specifications
Please use the tables below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.
| MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2008) and earlier and MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2008) and earlier | |
| Number of memory slots | 2 |
| Base memory | 512 MB (configure to order) |
| Maximum memory | Refer to the table below |
| Memory card specifications | - Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format - 30mm (1.18 inch) - 200-pin - PC2-5300 DDR2 667 MHz Type RAM |
Refer to this table for the maximum amount of memory that can be recognized by these notebook computers:
| 2 GB | MacBook Pro, MacBook Pro (17-inch), MacBook Pro (15-inch, Glossy) |
| 3 GB | MacBook Pro (15-inch and 17-inch Core 2 Duo) Note: These models will support only 3 GB total memory. If you want to maximize the amount of SDRAM in your computer, install a 2 GB SO-DIMM in one slot and a 1GB SO-DIMM in the other. |
| 4 GB | MacBook Pro (15-inch 2.4/2.2 GHz), MacBook Pro (17-inch 2.4 GHz), MacBook Pro (15-inch Early 2008), MacBook Pro (17-inch Late 2008) |
Removing or installing memory
You will need to remove the battery before installing additional memory and reinstall the battery after installing the memory. The following procedure includes all the necessary instructions for both parts of the process.
Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.
Step 1: Remove the battery
- Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, and any other cords connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
- Turn the computer over.
- Locate the battery release latches on each side of the battery.
- Slide both latches up. The battery should pop up slightly.
- Lift the battery out.
Step 2: Remove the memory door
- Using a Phillips size 00 screwdriver, unscrew the memory door and remove it from the battery bay of your computer. Depending on the model of your MacBook Pro, you may have three or four screws.
- Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.
Step 3: Remove existing memory (if present)
If you need to remove a memory card—for example if you are replacing it or if you need to get past the memory in the top slot to access the bottom slot—you can remove the card by spreading the tabs on each side of the card away from the notches in the memory card. The card should pop up slightly. Lift the memory card to about a 25-degree angle and then gently slide the card out of the memory slot.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.
Step 4: Install memory
- Insert the new memory card at a 25-degree angle. Line up the notch in the card with the small tab in the memory slot and slide the card into the slot until the gold edge is almost invisible. Firmly press the memory card into the memory slot. You might feel some resistance.
- Gently spread the small tabs in the memory slot away from the notches and push the memory card down until the two tabs on either side of the card lock into place.
- Insert any additional memory into the second slot.
Note: Make sure you install the memory according to the illustration below, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.
Step 5: Replace the memory door
Replace the memory door, and make sure the door is lying flat before you screw it back into place.
Step 6: To insert the battery
- Place the bottom edge of the battery into the battery compartment at an angle, as shown below.
- Gently press the top edge of the battery down until the battery latch locks into place.
Learn more
Checking that your computer recognizes the new memory
After installing additional memory, you should confirm that the computer recognizes the new memory. To check the computer’s memory:
- Start up your computer.
- When you see the Mac OS X desktop, choose the Apple () menu from the upper-left menu bar, then choose About This Mac.
The total memory includes the amount of memory that originally came with the computer plus the new memory you added, or if all the memory has been replaced, the new total for that memory. For detailed information about the amount of memory installed in your computer, open System Profiler by choosing Apple () and then About This Mac. Then, click More Info and then Memory from the Hardware section that appears in System Profiler.
If your computer doesn’t recognize the memory or doesn’t start up correctly, confirm that the memory you installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro and that it is installed correctly by reseating the memory.
One of the most common questions among Mac users today is how to reclaim enough memory to provide great working performance. People are concerned about keeping their Mac in a good condition, so they look for any useful methods for speeding it up. The first solution that comes to mind is to do an effective Mac cleaning to remove unnecessary files and prevent system glitches.
But sometimes users don’t know how to clean Mac to free memory or have no time to clean their PCs manually. We understand that this is a boring or difficult process, but it is highly recommended to start with reclaiming RAM memory. This will definitely be useful for boosting the performance of your computer.
Try These Three Ways to Free Inactive Memory on Mac OS X
First, let’s clarify what inactive memory is on Mac. Inactive memory is used by recently active and terminated applications. The system of your computer saves this memory in case you want to use these applications again. If you no longer want to open those programs, the inactive memory will eventually be released or transferred.
How To Clear Memory On My Macbook Pro
But what to do when there is not enough memory and you see your Mac’s performance degradation? In this situation, we advise you to clear the inactive RAM by following the instructions below.
Before we begin, let us introduce one very useful and interesting application for Mac, namely MacFly Pro. This innovative cleaning software has been developed to take care of your Mac and keep it in a nice shape. MacFly Pro does the following: it removes inactive or old apps, as well as related files, cleans inactive memory, clears the cache and duplicates, gets rid of language and log files, and scans the overall condition to warn system of violations or threats. So if you want a fast and proper cleaning for your Mac, make sure you download and run MacFly Pro on your PC.
And now, we go directly to the ways how to free up ram on Mac:
1. Use Terminal
Open the Terminal application on your Mac.
Genji 1 shuriken dmg. Then, enter the command below:
sudo purge
After that, enter the password to clear inactive memory.
The advantage of this simple method is that it’s a default application and you don’t need to download any other programs. On the other hand, it might cause some slowdowns and so that you will have to enter the lines one more time.
2. Use Script Editor
The second way how to free up ram mac is to use Script Editor (the most popular technique used by Apple developers). Now, follow these steps:
Launch Script Editor
This is how it looks in an opened window:
How To Clean Up Memory On My Macbook Pro
Next, write down the following text:
display dialog “Free inactive RAM?” buttons {“Cancel”, “OK”} with icon 2 with title “Freeing RAM” default button 2
Free Up Memory On Mac
set buttonAnswer to the button returned of the result
if buttonAnswer is “ОК” then
say “Freeing RAM. Wait please.”
How To Clear Memory On My Macbook Air
tell application “Terminal”
do shell script “purge”
quit
end tell
say “Done!”
end if
After that, you should press ⌘+S and save the script in Application folders. Also, select Application format instead of Script.
This specific app is certainly useful, but actually, it is hard to open an app if you urgently need to clean your RAM on a Mac.
3. Use Third-Party Software
The last thing you do to free RAM is to look for and find some efficient cleaning applications. For instance, MacFly Pro is a great digital software and document scanner that will take care of your PC. With this app, you will forget about the necessity to clean Mac manually since it will do it for you in a matter of minutes. What is more, it will constantly support the system and optimize the performance of your Mac OS X.
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