MacBook Pro RAM Options - Need Help!

[jova007]

Hey guys.. I use my MBP for live DJing, music production and junk like that and I want to upgrade to a 2 gb ram system.

Question 1:
Does RAM need to be paired up? I have 1 GB from the original specs. And just need to buy 1 GB more.. but does it have to be Samsung? I read somewhere that ram needs to be paired up to work efficiently.. so that means I need to buy a 1GB Samsung stick to match my factory Samsung right?

Question 2:
If my MBP came with 1 GB standard, and only has 2 slots, why do they sell RAM in (2) 1 GB kits? Wouldnt it be reasonable to buy just 1 RAM stick?

Question 3:
Samsung Ram - $149. Memory Bank Ram - $78. Same specs. Now I dont mind paying 1/2 for the Memory Bank stick, but i dont want to be scratching my head if its not gonna perform like the Samsung. Is there really a difference? I have been screwed before on these "This is too good to be true" deals.. so if no one answers this question, then I'll gladly buy the Samsung, as i dont want to regret anything later one.

Thanks in advance guys..

 

[WildCowboy]

1. RAM does not need to be paired up. On the MBP, you will see a slight speed advantage if you do use paired RAM, but it's not that crucial.

2. The entry-level MBP comes with just 512 MB of RAM. If someone wanted to upgrade that configuration to 2 GB, they'd want to purchase a 2 x 1 GB "kit" so that they could get the benefits of paired RAM.

3. Macs can be picky about RAM, but most RAM that meets Apple's published specs should work. The most important thing I look for is a vendor/manufacturer who stands behind their RAM and offers lifetime warranties. I don't buy the expensive Apple, Samsung, or Crucial brands, but I don't buy the cheapest stuff I can find either. I tend to split the difference in pricing and buy my RAM from either OWC or DMS...both places are knowledgeable when it comes to Macs, sell great RAM, and have terrific customer service.

 

[jova007]

WildCowboy, hey thanks for the quick reply. I will look into DMS as my co-workers all swear by them and have them in thier Powerbooks.

Thanks!