Need a RAM upgrade for your MacBook Pro 13-inch Unibody? We carry out this work in-house at our London workshop, with a fixed quote before we start.
The 13-inch unibody has two DDR3 SO-DIMM slots under the bottom cover. Apple quoted 8GB as the maximum, but the 2011 and 2012 models run happily with 16GB (2 × 8GB, 1333MHz or 1600MHz depending on model). The 2009 and 2010 use 1066MHz DDR3. We fit matched modules and test them before returning the Mac. Paired with an SSD, this is the upgrade that keeps an A1278 useful.
About this model: The 13-inch unibody MacBook Pro (A1278) is one of the most repairable and long-lived Macs Apple ever made. It has a user-accessible hard drive and two RAM slots, a removable optical drive and a screwed-in battery.
Signs it needs a RAM upgrade
- Mac slows to a crawl with a browser and one app open
- Memory pressure warnings
- Three beeps at start-up (RAM fault)
- Only half the installed memory recognised
How we do it
We read your exact model identifier first, because Mac memory is fussy about speed and type, and the wrong module can cause beeps at start-up or random crashes. We fit matched pairs where the model benefits from dual-channel memory.
After fitting we run an extended memory test and check that the full amount shows in System Information, so there are no surprises later.
At a glance
| Years | 2009–2012 |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core 2 Duo, then Core i5/i7 |
| Storage | Standard SATA drive |
| Memory | Socketed, upgradeable |
| Battery | Screwed in (no glue) |
| Power / charging | MagSafe 1 |
Before you bring it in
Open Activity Monitor and look at the Memory tab: if Memory Pressure is often yellow or red, more RAM will help. Screenshot it and bring it along.
Which model do you have?
This page covers the MacBook Pro 13-inch Unibody (2009–2012) (MacBookPro5,5 / 7,1 / 8,1 / 9,2; A1278). Look under Apple menu > About This Mac, or check the small print on the bottom case for the A-number. Not sure? Bring it in and we’ll identify it for you.
Price
We give you a fixed quote for your exact model after a free initial assessment, before any work starts. All prices are subject to inspection, and nothing is done without your approval.
Questions we’re often asked
Will I lose my files?
No. We clone or back up your data before any upgrade and check everything is in place afterwards.
Is it worth upgrading this model?
For most owners it is. An upgrade costs a fraction of a new Mac, and we’ll say plainly if your particular machine has other faults that make it a poor investment.
Do I pay if you can’t fix it?
No. If the repair isn’t possible, you don’t pay for it, and the free initial assessment costs nothing.
Book a repair
For a free, no-obligation quote, call 020 7394 2528 or email info@mac-repair.london.