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OWC RAM trustworthy?
- Thread starter chaoticprout
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Crucial is reliable, yes, but no more reliable than OWC.
So, No. I wouldn't go for Crucial if it was an extra $100; I just went to Crucial because it was cheaper.
OK: once again *:
All RAM that is 100% compatible with the Mac, will run at precisely the same speed. So there is no performance difference between brands.
There have been a number of reputable sellers mentioned: Crucial, OWC (macsales.com) and Data Memory Systems (datamem.com) are the most often recommended US sellers. All offer lifetime warranties.
You can't really say that one brand is more reliable than another. You are going to see about a 1% infant mortality rate on any RAM. The difference is in how well the seller treats you... do they send a replacement quickly, and in advance of you sending in the bad one? or will they insist on you sending the RAM back to the manufacturer and waiting for replacement?
You can't go purely by brand name either, because each brand has dozens or hundreds of different models. Also, some brands have "value" or generic lines of memory that are not the same modules as their branded memory.
I prefer to recommend a company that tests and guarantees Mac compatibility, and has a no cost replacement or return (no shipping charges) if the RAM arrives DOA. I think buying PC generic RAM (without explicit Mac support) to save 2% - 5% in the cost is foolish, as is buying from a PC discounter who will charge restocking fees or shipping to take it back. But that's my opinion.
(* we have had oodles of threads on RAM, we do this at least once or twice a week. Searching the forums is highly recommended.)
I do not live in the states, will OWC cover my return shipping costs if my stick died during my lifetime?
What did OWC say when you asked them?
Seriously, go to the source on questions of policy...
In general, all shipping on international warranty is the responsibility of the buyer. I don't know of any company who will offer free shipping cross border. In that case, look for a reputable reseller in your country.
The site works fine at times... I think it may be volume-related. In any case they've been a bit slow in handling the order, but then I'm international and I get the feeling the US is their primary business.
No, they might even charge you a restocking fee
Check their reseller ratings. Their customer support is terrible with returns and the like.
Honestly, why is noone even paying attention to the amazing deal on Patriot 2GB sticks? $95 shipped? So much better deal than OWC. Now that deal's gone and it's back to back-ordered at $99.
There are still better deals available from generally reputable companies. There's some Super Talent 2GB sticks @ $88 + shipping (about $10 for two sticks for me)... total of $186. Even cheaper than the Frys deal.
The difference of course is you may have a tougher time doing RMAs on Super Talent RAM, but it is great quality RAM that's highly recommended (uses Micron chips, just like the Frys and Crucial).
Super Talent 2GB DDR2-667 SO-DIMM @ $88