How much RAM do I need for a macbook?

iNick · iNick #1 (**permalink**)

09-07-2007, 11:28 AM

I was thinking about getting a macbook for uni stuff. I wouldn't be going into outer space with it or anything, just basic stuff like word processing, matlab, music, maybe run linux and/or XP under bootcamp. The thing is though, is that I like everything to be snappy and I hate slow downs, crashes etc.

I don't know much about OSX and its resource needs so I was wondering if just the 1GB of RAM will do this easily for me. Im trying to keep the thing cheap but money isn't all that much of a problem so if it really needs it I don't mind so much spending the $200AU on the extra ram. But if I don't need it then of course Id rather not pay for it.

I'll also want to hook this up to an external monitor to use as a regular desktop computer. This wont slow it down at all should it? Like I said my needs are reasonably small so I know I don't need the top of the line model.

RiDE · RiDE #2 (**permalink**)

09-07-2007, 11:38 AM

The 1GB should be just fine for you.. My advice would be to get the 1gb... Then judge for yourself regarding your RAM needs by keeping an eye on the "Activity Monitor" application to see if/how often you are maxing out the 1GB... if you need to, you can easily and for less $$$ upgrade the RAM yourself (it takes MAYBE 2 minutes

). Upgrading the RAM and/or HD yourself does NOT void your warranty on the MacBook.

An external display won't slow down your system.

goobimama · goobimama #3 (**permalink**)

09-07-2007, 11:43 AM

More RAM is definitely better. However, don't get it from Apple cause they charge insane prices. Getting it from somewhere outside is much cheaper and works just as well...

Definitely recommend 2GB...its nice having the freedom...

As for using a m

Interregnum · Interregnum #4 (**permalink**)

09-07-2007, 11:50 AM

You'll be fine with an entry level MacBook. Adding RAM later is easy if it turns out you need it.

Lucibel · Lucibel #5 (**permalink**)

09-07-2007, 02:36 PM

I bought mine with just 1G, later I added another G... but I really didn't need it. OS X runs smoothly with just 1.

Like everyone said, get your macbook with just 1G, then if you think you need another one, buy it somewhere outside.

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How much RAM do I need for a macbook?

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iNick #1 (permalink)
Member Since: Aug 02, 2007 Posts: 38	09-07-2007, 11:28 AM I was thinking about getting a macbook for uni stuff. I wouldn't be going into outer space with it or anything, just basic stuff like word processing, matlab, music, maybe run linux and/or XP under bootcamp. The thing is though, is that I like everything to be snappy and I hate slow downs, crashes etc. I don't know much about OSX and its resource needs so I was wondering if just the 1GB of RAM will do this easily for me. Im trying to keep the thing cheap but money isn't all that much of a problem so if it really needs it I don't mind so much spending the $200AU on the extra ram. But if I don't need it then of course Id rather not pay for it. I'll also want to hook this up to an external monitor to use as a regular desktop computer. This wont slow it down at all should it? Like I said my needs are reasonably small so I know I don't need the top of the line model.
	QUOTE Thanks

RiDE #2 (permalink)
Member Since: Sep 13, 2006 Location: Deep in the heart of Texas! Posts: 3,556 Mac Specs: Mac's	09-07-2007, 11:38 AM The 1GB should be just fine for you.. My advice would be to get the 1gb... Then judge for yourself regarding your RAM needs by keeping an eye on the "Activity Monitor" application to see if/how often you are maxing out the 1GB... if you need to, you can easily and for less $$$ upgrade the RAM yourself (it takes MAYBE 2 minutes ). Upgrading the RAM and/or HD yourself does NOT void your warranty on the MacBook. An external display won't slow down your system.
	QUOTE Thanks

Interregnum #4 (permalink)
Member Since: Jul 06, 2007 Posts: 44	09-07-2007, 11:50 AM You'll be fine with an entry level MacBook. Adding RAM later is easy if it turns out you need it.
	QUOTE Thanks

Lucibel #5 (permalink)
Member Since: Aug 18, 2007 Location: Vancouver, BC Posts: 93 Mac Specs: MBP 2.3GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 4GB 1333MHz 320GB / 60G iPod Touch	09-07-2007, 02:36 PM I bought mine with just 1G, later I added another G... but I really didn't need it. OS X runs smoothly with just 1. Like everyone said, get your macbook with just 1G, then if you think you need another one, buy it somewhere outside.
	QUOTE Thanks

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