Boost Your Performance: A Comprehensive Guide to Upgrading RAM on a 2019 MacBook Pro

Is your 2019 MacBook Pro feeling a little sluggish? Do you find yourself staring at the spinning beach ball more often than you’d like? One of the most impactful upgrades you can make to breathe new life into your machine is increasing its Random Access Memory (RAM). While Apple has moved towards soldered RAM in newer models, thankfully, the 2019 MacBook Pro models (specifically the 13-inch and 15-inch variants, although we’ll focus on the 13-inch for this guide as the process is largely the same with minor differences) still offer the possibility of a RAM upgrade, though it’s not for the faint of heart. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, providing detailed instructions and considerations to help you successfully upgrade your MacBook Pro’s RAM.

Before You Begin: Understanding the Limitations

Before diving into the upgrade process, it’s crucial to understand a few key points about the 2019 MacBook Pro’s RAM upgradeability:

• Not User-Replaceable (Officially): While technically possible, Apple doesn’t officially endorse or provide user-replaceable RAM in the 2019 MacBook Pro. This means you’ll be voiding any remaining warranty by undertaking this project. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.
• Specific RAM Type: The 2019 13-inch MacBook Pro uses LPDDR3 2133MHz SO-DIMM RAM modules. You absolutely must purchase RAM that matches these specifications. Using incorrect RAM will likely result in your MacBook Pro not booting. The 15-inch model uses DDR4 2400MHz SO-DIMM RAM modules.
• Soldered RAM for some models: While the 2019 13 inch models with 2 thunderbolt ports do have upgradable RAM, the 2019 13 inch models with 4 thunderbolt ports have soldered RAM, it is not possible to upgrade. Please verify which one you have before attempting.
• Maximum RAM: The 13-inch 2019 MacBook Pro typically comes with either 8GB or 16GB of RAM. You can upgrade to a maximum of 16GB. The 15-inch model can be upgraded up to 32GB. Upgrading to more than the maximum won’t provide any benefit.
• Technical Skill Required: This upgrade requires a good level of technical aptitude. You’ll need to be comfortable with disassembling electronic devices and handling small components with care. If you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s best to seek professional assistance.
• Potential for Damage: There’s always a risk of damaging your MacBook Pro during the disassembly and reassembly process. Static electricity, dropped screws, and improper handling can all lead to problems.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials:

• New RAM Modules: Purchase the correct LPDDR3 2133MHz SO-DIMM RAM modules for the 13-inch model. For the 15-inch model, purchase DDR4 2400MHz SO-DIMM RAM modules. Confirm your model and memory requirements before purchase. Double-check that you are getting SO-DIMM modules and not Desktop DIMM modules.
• P5 Pentalobe Screwdriver: This is required to remove the back cover of your MacBook Pro. Standard Phillips screwdrivers won’t work.
• T5 Torx Screwdriver: This is needed for internal screws.
• Spudger or Pry Tool: A non-conductive tool for safely prying open components. Plastic spudgers are recommended.
• Anti-Static Wrist Strap: Crucial to prevent electrostatic discharge, which can damage sensitive electronic components.
• Small Container: To store the screws as you remove them to avoid losing them.
• Work Surface: A clean, well-lit workspace is essential. A static-mat is also advisable to help mitigate risks.
• Optional: Magnifying Glass/Headband Magnifier: For better visibility when handling very small parts.
• Optional: Compressed Air: To clean dust from inside the device.
• Smartphone Camera: To take pictures of each step. This can be extremely useful during the reassembly process, especially when faced with multiple screws or connectors.

Step-by-Step Guide: Upgrading RAM on a 2019 13-inch MacBook Pro

Now that you’ve gathered your tools and understand the risks, let’s get into the actual upgrade process. Remember to take your time and proceed with caution at each step.

Step 1: Power Off Your MacBook Pro and Unplug Everything

Completely shut down your MacBook Pro and disconnect the power adapter and any other peripherals, such as USB devices, screens or SD cards.

Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace

Find a clean, well-lit work area. Lay down an anti-static mat if you have one. Place your tools and the new RAM modules within easy reach.

Step 3: Put on Your Anti-Static Wrist Strap

Attach the wrist strap to your wrist and connect the other end to a ground point, such as a metal surface of your work desk. This will help prevent electrostatic discharge and protect the sensitive internal components of your laptop.

Step 4: Remove the Bottom Case

Turn your MacBook Pro over so the bottom case is facing up. Use the P5 Pentalobe screwdriver to carefully remove the six screws securing the bottom case. These screws are very small so use a container or magnetic tray to store them, so you do not lose them. Make sure to remember where they were positioned as they are different lengths. Place them in a layout that represents their placement on the laptop to help with reassembly.

Step 5: Carefully Detach the Bottom Case

Once the screws are removed, carefully lift the bottom case. Use the spudger if required to gently pry the case open. It may be held on by small plastic clips which will need a bit of persuasion. Start from one edge or corner and work your way around. Be patient and gentle, and do not use excessive force. Be careful not to damage any internal components. Once free, gently lift off the bottom cover and set it aside.

Step 6: Locate the RAM Modules

Inside the MacBook Pro you will find the two RAM slots located near the middle of the motherboard, they are usually near the battery and easily identifiable. Note their orientation, and make sure you know which is the top one and which is the bottom one. Note the clips on each side that are holding them into place, you will need to open these later.

Step 7: Disconnect the Battery Connector (Important!)

This is a CRITICAL step. Before you proceed any further, locate the battery connector on the logic board. It’s usually a small plug with a thin wire. Gently pry this connector upwards using the spudger. Make sure not to apply too much force and only pry on the plastic connector not on the wires. This step will disconnect power to the motherboard and prevent any electrical damage to the laptop when changing the ram.

Step 8: Remove the Existing RAM Modules

Now, locate the small metal clips on each side of the RAM module. Gently push these clips outwards simultaneously. This will release the module from the slot. They should pop out at an angle. Then carefully pull the RAM module out of its slot. Be gentle and avoid any yanking or pulling motion. Repeat this process for the second RAM module.

Step 9: Install the New RAM Modules

Take one of the new RAM modules and match the notch on the module with the notch in the RAM slot. Insert the module at a 45-degree angle. Then, gently push down on the module until it clicks into place and the retaining clips snap back into position, ensuring that they’re locked down. Repeat this process for the second RAM module.

Step 10: Reconnect the Battery Connector

Carefully re-attach the battery connector that you disconnected in step 7. Ensure that the connector is properly seated and secured.

Step 11: Reattach the Bottom Case

Place the bottom case back onto the MacBook Pro. Make sure it is aligned correctly. Gently press down around the edges to ensure all the clips engage. Screw the bottom case screws back into their respective locations, again, make sure that you are using the correct screws for each hole, and do not overtighten them.

Step 12: Test Your MacBook Pro

Connect the power adapter and power on your MacBook Pro. If everything was done correctly, your MacBook Pro should boot normally. To confirm the new RAM is installed open system information in the apple menu and check how much memory is being reported. If your MacBook doesn’t boot, revisit all the steps to make sure you did not miss something.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues, here are some common troubleshooting steps:

• MacBook Pro Won’t Turn On: Double-check that the battery connector is properly connected. Also, ensure that the RAM modules are correctly seated in their slots. Sometimes the ram is not seated properly or sometimes it is not compatible.
• Black Screen/Boot Loop: Try removing and reinserting the RAM modules. Ensure you are using the correct specification and also make sure the connectors are fully clicked in. If the issue persists, it may be necessary to restore to the original ram.
• System Freezes/Crashes: The new RAM might be faulty. Check the specifications, if it is compatible and if not you may need to replace with the correct type of ram, or test each stick individually and see if one is bad.
• Missing Screws: If you’re missing screws, you can sometimes purchase replacements online. This is an easier fix than an unbootable laptop so be careful with the screws and place them in a container when removing them.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading the RAM on your 2019 MacBook Pro can significantly improve its performance, making it feel like a new machine. However, it’s essential to understand the risks involved and proceed cautiously. If you’re unsure about any step, it’s always best to consult a qualified technician. By following this guide, you should be able to confidently upgrade your RAM and enjoy a smoother, faster MacBook Pro experience. Remember, this upgrade will void any remaining Apple warranty and this guide is a simplified and not a perfect guide. Please always double check with other sources if you are unsure.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Proceed at your own risk. We are not responsible for any damage to your device as a result of this guide.