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Crucial

Crucial 4GB kit (2GBx2) DDR3 iMac Memory Upgrade

★★★★★5.0 (1 reviews)

Crucial's manufacturer-backed 4GB DDR3 kit delivers a straightforward memory upgrade for Late 2009 iMac models.

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Overview

The Crucial 4GB kit (2GBx2) is a DDR3 PC3-8500 memory upgrade designed exclusively for the Apple iMac 21.5-inch and 27-inch models from Late 2009. Each module is a 204-pin SODIMM running at DDR3-1066 speeds with unbuffered, non-ECC configuration — precisely matching Apple's specifications for these machines. The dual-profile voltage support (1.35V/1.5V) ensures stable operation within the iMac's memory controller parameters. As a product from Crucial, a brand of Micron Technology, these modules come from one of the original DRAM manufacturers rather than a third-party assembler, which means the memory chips themselves are produced and tested in-house.

Installation is designed to be user-friendly, with Crucial estimating about 15 minutes for the process. The Late 2009 iMac features an accessible memory compartment on its underside, so no screen removal or specialized disassembly is required. This kit is ideal for iMac owners looking to restore performance to an aging system or replace a faulty memory module with a guaranteed-compatible part. Given the age of the supported hardware, this upgrade makes the most sense for users who are maintaining a Late 2009 iMac for specific tasks rather than as a primary workstation.

Key Features

204-pin SODIMM

DDR3-1066

DDR3 PC3-8500 Unbuffered, NON-ECC, DDR3-1066, 1.35v/1.5v (Dual Profile), 256Meg x 64

The only brand of memory upgrade available directly from a DRAM manufacturer, tested to meet the most stringent industry specifications

Install it yourself in about 15 minutes. The same top-quality memory that the worlds largest computer manufacturers install in the systems they sell

Specifications

Total Capacity
4GB (2x 2GB)
Memory Type
DDR3 PC3-8500
Speed
DDR3-1066
Form Factor
204-pin SODIMM
Error Correction
Non-ECC, Unbuffered
Voltage
1.35V / 1.5V (Dual Profile)
Configuration
256Meg x 64
Compatibility
Apple iMac 21.5" and 27" (Late 2009)

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Manufactured by Crucial, a division of Micron, one of the world's largest DRAM producers ensuring high component quality
  • Specifically tested for compatibility with Late 2009 iMac models, reducing the risk of incompatibility issues
  • Simple installation process that takes approximately 15 minutes with no special tools required
  • 204-pin SODIMM form factor matches the iMac's memory slot design precisely

👎 Cons

  • Total capacity of 4GB (2x 2GB) is modest and may not significantly improve performance for modern macOS versions
  • Only compatible with Late 2009 iMac models, making it a very narrow-use product
  • DDR3-1066 speed is slow by current standards, though it matches the specification required by the supported iMac
  • Non-ECC unbuffered memory lacks error correction, though this matches the iMac's requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

This kit is specifically designed for the Apple iMac 21.5-inch and 27-inch Late 2009 models. It will not work in newer iMacs that require different memory types.
The kit contains two 2GB DDR3 modules for a total of 4GB. Depending on your iMac's existing configuration and available slots, this can supplement or replace your current memory.
No, Crucial states it can be installed in approximately 15 minutes. The Late 2009 iMac has a user-accessible memory compartment on the bottom of the unit that does not require special tools.
Yes, these modules are dual-profile and operate at either 1.35V or 1.5V, providing compatibility and flexibility with the iMac's memory controller.

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