Same thought here. You almost have to disassemble the entire iMac! Holy God! I'm not afraid to do this type of surgery (I already had a very complicated one many years ago when changing the internal battery of a Titanium), but... just to UPGRADE Apple's RAM? In the past Mac's were designed with simplicity in mind. Now all is the opposite. Why? We miss Steve Jobs.

Dude, 4 hours

Ikr!😒

Felt like I was taking a car dash apart.

Same here, cannot believe how hard they make it to remove this thing.. and to top it off my kid's got a bad case of diaper rash!

And your Apple dealer is right. Consuming so much time just to... upgrade iMac memory! 75 minutes of surgery to only... change a module! Holy God! Aaarghhh! We miss you Steve (Jobs)!

Fully agree with you!

I think the 2019 is even more convoluted - I'm going to upgrade my 2017 first, then Ram and HDD on my 2019. not looking forward to either, to be honest. Yeah, the 2012-ish just required taking off the access plate on the bottom for the memory - Like 5 minutes to upgrade. This hot mess is another story.

wait, does it work like that?

Really? Your mad my friend!

Yep would of been much easier

How?

@@amberraining9546 easy

Wish I had read this first!! The thunderbolt port I use for my second screen is now not working!! One I plug an external drive into does but if I plug the hdmi cable in as well they both fail!! Looks like I will have to take the screen off again!! :(

Miguel, That is awesome to hear that you were able to upgrade your RAM from 8GB to 32GB!! We really hope you enjoy the new RAM upgrade in your machine!

You are most welcome! We are excited to hear that you were able to upgrade your iMac to 32GB of RAM!!

That is awesome, We're glad that our video was very helpful with your installation. 💪🏽😎

Hey William, We're glad to hear that the installation was great and that our installation video was very helpful for you. Please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions, comments, or concerns. eshop.macsales.com/Service/

Do you have the parts to do all this? Thanks great job

Did you do it successfully?

You're very welcome. Glad to hear that our installation video was helpful.

Glad we can help!

Agreed, it is a good idea to make sure your cables and connections are all working before you apply the adhesive, just to make sure everything is working. If you need a replacement set of adhesive please give us a call at 1-800-275-4576 and we can assist!

Thank you for the feedback and happy to hear you liked the video. A Ram upgrade really does make a world of difference. Enjoy your Super Fast iMac 😎

Sometimes putting in a new SSD and RAM is all the computer needs for a little boost!

We love you too!!! We are so glad that we could help save you some money! That's always great to hear!

Happy to help!!

We're glad to hear our tutorial was very helpful with the memory upgrade on your iMac. 😎

@@poweredbyowc Like I said, you deserve the shout-out. We make videos ourselves and we know how time-consuming they are. I've already mentioned your videos to other people who are thinking of upgrading and feel a bit overwhelmed. Thanks again 👍👍

🔥😎😁🎉🔥

Thanks for the comment, glad to see your installation went successfully! It can be a little tricky once it comes to re-sealing but the rest of the installation is fairly simple. Please let us know if you need help with anything else!

Hi, officially its support only 16GB (2x8GB) or I'm wrong and you have 4K model? Please reply why did you go for 32GB and how is working? Many thanks

🤣

Any difference with the new SSD?

You may want to check if another Display has the same issues if the other display does the same thing you may have not connected the ports correctly.

There could be some possible incompatibility issues, this is why we recommend using the memory here: eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/imac-2017-21.5-inch, as this is both compatible and will work best inside that machine.

We would recommend double-checking your Model number as some years did not include the ability to upgrade RAM. The information we are looking for to confirm your model is the model identifier that is found in your system information.

We are glad that you like our video. We do not recommend that you do the upgrade yourself if you are not confident with doing the upgrade. We do offer to do the upgrade for you if you decide you want the upgrade. Just give us a call and we can provide you with pricing.

Hey Des Oliver, We certainly can below we have provided you the link to the tools needed. eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/DIYIMAC212/

We're not seeing it missing, but could have easily missed it with this being a longer video

You are welcome! We completely understand that this upgrade is not for everyone!

Hello Shon Yagutilov, For your iMac you can change out the memory to the max of 64GB, we have provided you the memory upgrade link below. eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/imac-2017-21.5-inch Now for the SSD it would depend on how you purchased the iMac. If you purchased it with a HDD yes you should have no issues with installing that Samsung drive but now if you purchased the iMac custom with a NVMe SSD you will not be able to install that Samsung drive due to the iMac not having a SATA connector in the mac 21.5-inch iMac models that came with a factory-installed SSD or Fusion drive.

If you need any help in making that attempt, reach out and let us know, were always happy and ready to help. :)

@@poweredbyowc I appreciate it.

We agree with you. But at OWC, our goal is to make installations more manageable and customer-friendly.

Hallo ich hatte das selbe Problem habs aber gelöst bekommen

The RAM that we provide for this model is a 2400. I would recommend reaching out to Apple to ask if it is possible to have a higher speed in this model.

We would recommend testing a PRAM reset and/or an SMC reset first. Also, please clean the contacts of the memory then reinstall them. For more information on trouble shooting, please feel free to reach out to our support team on the link below. eshop.macsales.com/Service/support

Hey Doffy, That is a great question, and many have wondered the same. Unfortunately, since 2012, Apple decided to design the 21.5" iMacs without a back door for RAM upgrades. This means the only way to upgrade the RAM in the 2012 and later 21.5" iMacs is through a more involved process that requires opening the machine.

Certainly! We have two options available: The first kit includes adhesive and memory, which you can find here: eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/2421DDR4S32P/ The second kit includes memory, tools, suction cups, microfiber cloth, OWC Screen Removal Tool, and adhesive strips, available here:eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/2421DDR4S32K/

You can, however it is quite involved. I would absolutely recommend you watch the install video before purchasing a drive to be sure you are aware of the difficulty: eshop.macsales.com/installvideos/imac-21-inch-2017/?filter=ssd

Sounds like a really fun project, if you happen to have an extra iMac laying around for parts 🙂🔧

@@poweredbyowc Any of the newer 21.5" iMacs with a bad motherboard would work.

I have linked below the compatible memory for your iMac 18,1. eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/imac-2017-21.5-inch

Yes... making it difficult on purpose. Because if you analyze the video, you end up with the RAM modules facing the back of the case. In a 27-inch model they simplified the procedure, but in the 21.5-inch model... they push you to "think twice" if you investigate beforehand how to expand your RAM memory. Too bad Apple!

Yes you can upgrade the memory for your iMac 18.2. Please see this link: eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/2421DDR4S64K/ for the upgrade kit we offer. Please let us know if you have any questions.

The maximum RAM for the 2017 iMac 21.5" varies depending on the specific model you own. For the 4K model, the maximum is 64GB, while the base model tops out at 32GB. If you're unsure about your model, feel free to contact us with your serial number, and we'll gladly confirm it for you. Alternatively, you can use MacTracker, an app you can download on your iMac, to check the maximum RAM your model supports. We're here to assist however we can! eshop.macsales.com/Service/

💪 Installation warrior scars😉. We're glad you are okay. 😆

Hi @Sandeep! Have you reached out to the RAM manufacturer already for help? If you purchased the RAM directly from OWC: eshop.macsales.com/Service/ Since the iMac18,2 is spec'd out by Apple for 2 x 16 GB, and we've discovered in the years since that it will accept 2 x 32 GB RAM, I suspect there may be something else in your particular situation that may be causing the behavior.

@@poweredbyowc going to return the PNY ram and purchased OWC now on Amazon let’s see if it works. I did reopen it and put back one of the 8gb sticks along with one 16gb and it booted up however still slow loading programs like Logic Pro when making music. Keep you posted if I have any issues once I put the owc ram in

The 21.5" can be a bit tricky but if you're able to follow a video we provide all the tools you'll need! Glad to hear it helped you out enjoy your RAM!

Hi, officially for 2K (2.3 Ghz, Late 2017, 21.5) model its support only 16GB (2x8GB) or I'm wrong and you have 4K model? Please reply why did you go for 32GB and how is working? Many thanks

@@makki4064 In the video he is using a mid 2017 4K model. The mid-2017 4K models can actually be upgraded to double what Apple has “officially” said, but the 2K model from that year is only upgradable to 16 gb

Apple uses a variety of different manufacturers to outsource different components. My recommendation is that if they are working well, to leave them...or if not...consider an upgrade and upgrading the RAM to a bigger and faster kit.

@@poweredbyowc Thanks, I understand they use different manufacturers. But why did they mix two, being one is Micron MTA4ATF51264HZ-2G3B2 4GB And the other is a Crucial by Micron CT4G4SFS824A.

That would be a great question to ask Apple, we would love to know as well. 😉

Hello José Manuel, If you reach out to us at support@macsales.com or via phone (800)275.4576 we can double check what is the correct memory upgrade we can provide you and if your 21.5" iMac can take the 2600MHz memory.

We are so very sorry for any troubles or inconvenience this has caused you. Going forward, we would like to work with you directly if you can please reach out to us on the link below. We hope to hear from you soon on resolving this. eshop.macsales.com/Service/support

This is a great question! The imac 21.5" 2017 machine doesn't have the door on the back. While you can upgrade the memory in this machine, this would mean you would need to take the front of the screen off to get to the memory.

Cut it your own back door. Ez’r than removing everything!

@@rickgold6664 And... how do you expect to cut through that back door without damaging the inside of your Mac? Dismantling it completely? Ha ha ha ha ha ha

@@midisqusdisqus802 I used my Dremel. Ha ha ha!

@@rickgold6664 ??? Well, everyone DAMAGES/RUINS their iMac as they want...

Well Dylan, we are glad to hear the install had gone well! While maybe not as smooth as intended it looks like you're up and running! If you ever have any questions during an installation feel free to give us a call at 1-800-275-4576 and speak to one of our techs we'd be happy to help you out!

Hello Prashant Balasubramaniam, The mid-2017 27" iMac (18,2 & 18,3) would take the same RAM modules as the mid-2017 21.5" iMac 18,1

Hello Prashant, yes the memory is still DDR4 2400MHz SO-DIMM's but the installations are different. The 27" has a hatch in the back you can install after removing the power cable, the 21.5" requires you to open your iMac to replace the memory.

If it helps, what some do is they will use masking tape or painters tape (something strong enough to stick and hold, but not impossible to get off) to hold the screen in place, they'll boot the computer to make sure it works, and then if it does, then they will finish it up. Just something that may help ya.

To incentivize you to either purchase the higher end model or two furnish the cheaper model with obscenely overpriced memory.

@@MortonSeinfeld Even if it sounds sinister, it seems that you're right Morton.

That is awesome to hear Jimmy's Garage, we are glad to hear that the upgrades brought your Mac back to life.

Thank you for the comment. It is a lengthy process, but it’s totally doable and worth it, in the long run. I find that working at your own pace and pausing the DIY install video from time to time really helps.

Hey Redtails, unfortunately the 21.5" models being physically smaller than the 27" doesn't allow for easy access since they have to move where the RAM is. Why they couldn't have put a door where they moved it? I'm not sure, but for the 21.5" models it's unfortunately a big hassle to upgrade.

That is nice to hear that you were able to find another way to do the install of the memory that worked for you.

You're right. I found the video that shows you how to do it. Even if it's a little bit tricky, you can avoid the hassle of almost completely disassembling your iMac. You'll need only FIVE MINUTES to upgrade your iMac's RAM (after the screen remove step, of course). It's up to you.

Aren't most of these out of warranty by now anyway?

@@mlthmp possible. I didn’t check into it too much. I just checked on the Apple website and it said no warranty left. But I’m not taking my entire computer apart to upgrade Ram.😂😂😂

We completely agree, but regrettably, Apple has chosen to make the installation process a bit challenging for both consumers and third-party upgrade companies like us.

Sorry to hear it was unclear, what part had you struggled with? We might be able to clarify, I'd probably recommend giving us a call if possible at 1-800-275-4576 and speaking with a technician.

That is a great question for Apple. The 27" iMac are so simple but the 21.5" iMac is very in-depth installation.

We do not recommend that you go 32-64GB if you are not a professional. We only recommend if you are using large RAM requiring Applications and softwares such as photoshop, illustrator and Adobe.

Because they would have cost $2000 more...

@@jakobward Yeah! At the price they take for upgrading RAM... Ha ha ha ha. Tricks to charge you - and at high prices - for anything. That's the dark part of Apple.

We are glad to hear that the upgrade to your daughter's computer was successful.

Thank you for reaching out to OWC about our installation video. Thank you for your feedback! We always appreciate the feedback we get from our customers regarding our videos with tips and tricks learned along the way. Please let us know if you have any questions or feedback!

Yes, but took me lot longer than on the video

Elsa, I'm sorry it took you longer to do the iMac memory upgrade than is shown in the video. Our technicians routinely upgrade memory on all sorts of Macs, so of course they can work more quickly than someone who may not have done a memory upgrade before. On the newer iMacs like the 2017 21.5" OWC does recommend professional installation.

@@poweredbyowc Don't be sorry, so glad that I managed to replace the ram thanks to your video! I am absolutely not technical, but was able to follow along very well.

We are glad to be able to provide everything needed to upgrade your iMac!

@@poweredbyowc Yes, I am so glad that you guys uploaded this video, I am doing this tomorrow, my OWC Ram just arrived to Portugal, im installing it myself tomorrow. One question: When I open the iMac (same as in the video), can I change the HDD card to SSD and The new RAM cards too? and then just turn the iMac on again? Thank you

Our OWC installation videos are intentionally slow to be easy to follow even for our most novice customers. We want our installation instructions to help, not intimidate!

The 21" 2017 model iMac ram definitely can be upgraded following the steps in the video, but also do note it is an advanced installation so may be something you want to have a local technician help take care of.

Unfortunately, that's correct since Steve Jobs is no longer at Apple.

How???

​@@gianpierooliva8253 You still need to remove the screen. So, I would follow instructions up until the part where they start disassembling parts and disconnecting wires. Remove the fan only. This will give you access to where the RAM is at. You might also tape the fan to the motherboard temporarily if you don't want to remove the fan wire from the motherboard. You may also need to carefully disconnect the three ribbons blocking your view of the back. If you look down under the motherboard, you can see the exposed slots. The next steps are a little tricky, but no risk of severing wires or forgetting to plug all of these things back in at the end, getting the case sealed shut, and then the power doesn't turn on because you forgot to reconnect the power-button wire or something silly. In other words, if you have a little dexterity and patience, you don't have to unplug hardly anything. For me, after the screen and the fan were removed, I tipped the iMac on its side so that the left side is in the air. If you look down behind the motherboard where the fan used to be, you'll see the RAM in there pointing right back up at your face. This might sound silly, but it worked well. If the next part isn't clear enough, let me know, and I can post a quick video of it. I rested the left edge (now the side pointing straight up in the air) on the bridge of my nose/forehead, which allows you a really good view down under the motherboard and directly at the RAM. It also holds the iMac in place so you don't need a partner to hold it up for you. Then, I reach one finger from my right hand through the side of the motherboard until it's on the right clip of the bottom DIMM. With a left-hand finger, I go down through the top and touch the left clip on the bottom DIMM. I pull the clips apart slightly (away from the RAM about a millimeter), and the top end of the old RAM will pop back about 30 degrees. Then, you just pull it out. Then move up to the upper DIMM, and do the same thing. When you pull the little silver pins apart about a millimeter, it should release the top of the RAM. Be careful not to drop the RAM down behind the motherboard. But if you do, you can just gently tip the iMac upside down or flip it to the other side so that it slides back out. If you need a visual of what it looks like to properly release the RAM and to properly seat the RAM, watch the part of this video where the technician demos it. When putting the new RAM in, you put the iMac back in to the same position where it's tipped up on its side and resting on your forehead/bridge of your nose again to hold it in place and to give you a good view of the RAM slots. Lower the RAM (the one you didn't transfer the little heat sink onto) down the back side of the motherboard so that the pins are in the socket, but the top is tipped back like when you released the old RAM - not so it's snapped back into place yet. Just let the top end rest against the inside of the case. Then lower the one with the heatsink into the top slot so that it's pointed back about 30 degrees, and then tip it upright until it snaps into place. Then go to the bottom DIMM and tip that one forward until it also snaps into place. Push down on the top of each of the two sticks of RAM fairly gently to make sure they're secured into place. If it looks good and secure, screw the fan back on and reconnect it to the motherboard. Put the screen back on the front of the iMac and secure the ribbons back into their little sockets. Done - likely in a fraction of the time without removing al of the components and disconnecting everything. OK - OK - I'll make a video.

@@gianpierooliva8253 Here's the link: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/ldFpfJp_nqjIc30.html

@@joeyslaptop thank you for the advice. It looks delicate but avoiding getting apart the motherboard and so on looks extremely complícate. I will go for it next days. Take care and Again, THANK YOU. You have a new subscriber.

@@VeganHoliday Hi, have installed new RAM 32 GB OWC ( 2 *16 GB). and SSD Crucial. But the computer deos not starting. I oponed the computer Again, check the RAMs are ok, and the SSD properly plugged but deos not starting. 2 LEDs green are ok, the one that shows the iMac is comenected, and the second One Which Gets on when you starting the computer…it looks like the third light belongs to GPU?. What can I do?