MacUpgrades.co.uk offers a wide range of fixed price upgrades and repairs for your Apple computers. You can drop in to our offices in Sawston, Cambridge or if you are not local you can either have us collect or send in your computer yourself. Sameday fitting is available for most items, contact us for details. We also offer on site installation services and training on your premises.
MacUpgrades offers a wide range of on-site services for your Apple equipment. We offer all of our upgrade services, and most of our repair services too.
All our engineers have at least 15 years of experience with Apple hardware and software
Enter your serial number into the box below for specific upgrades for your machine. Each upgrade has been tested in the machine we list it for. Compatability is 100% guaranteed or your money back.
How to find your serial number in software
You can find your Mac's serial number in Apple System Profiler: Select the Apple Menu > About This Mac, then (depending on the version of OSX you are running) click the System Report button or the More Info button. This brings up System Profiler, and on the Hardware Overview that is displayed by default you should see your serial number, and be able to copy/paste it. The procedure does vary slightly between different versions of OSX.
If you can't boot your Mac
If your Mac is not working, the serial number is printed on the computer casing but the location varies. Here are the main locations of serial numbers on Apple computers.
Unibody MacBook Pro - Laser etched onto the base.
MacBook, Early MacBook Pro, PowerBook G4 - Inside the main battery bay. Remove battery to locate.
iBook (White) - Under the keyboard. To lift keyboard, pull back on the release tabs between the F-keys.
Intel iMac, iMac G5 - Underside of the foot/stand.
iMac G4, iMac G3 - Underside of the iMac.
Mac mini - On the underside of the Mac mini.
Mac Pro 2006-2012 - On rear of machine near graphics card ports.
PowerMac G5 - On lower chassis under side panel. To remove side panel, lift lever on rear of Mac.
PowerMac G3, PowerMac G4 - Label on the back of the Mac.
Your Mac's Model Identifier can be found in System Profiler. You can use the drop-down menus above to be taken to a page that displays upgrades specifically for your exact model.
COVID Update (April 2021): Online orders and mail-in repairs/upgrades are happening as normal. In-person collection and drop-off is still operating by appointment only - please call us on 01223 833 412 to book a slot.
Mac mini (Intel) Upgrades
This page covers all the upgrades we sell for Apple Mac minis with an Intel
processor - made between 2006 and the present. Choose the type of
upgrade you are looking for from the tabs below.(Not
the right Mac? See here for
more Mac minis, or here for
all Macs.)
If you want specific upgrades for your exact model, choose it from the Model ID links below, or enter your serial number here:
This page referrers to the Intel based Mac mini computers. It does not cover the earlier PowerPC G4 based models, which are dealt with here.
Announced in February 2006, these joined the iMac Core Duo and the MacBook Pro in Apple's new range of Intel powered Macs.
Available in both Intel Core Solo and Intel Core Duo versions, these tiny machines garnered immediate praise for their impressive benchmarks compared to the Mac mini G4. Apple specs for the original Intel Mac mini can be found here.
In September 2006 Apple introduced a speed bump and dropped the low-end Core Solo version, but kept with the Core Duo despite moving the iMac range to the Core 2 Duo processor. Apple specs here.
In August 2007 the Mac mini finally went to the Core 2 Duo, other specs and upgrade compatibility remained unchanged. Apple specs here.
The next update to the Mac mini was in March 2009 and moved the mini to a 1066Mhz front side bus, taking up to DDR3 1066Mhz memory. The FireWire 400 port was replaced with FireWire 800 and an extra USB 2.0 port was added. Graphics are provided by an NVidea 9400M, using 128MB or 256MB of shared system memory and with a mini-DVI and mini-DisplayPort outputs. The optical drive changed to a SATA interface. Apple specs here.
A further update in October 2009 was mainly a bump to the processor speed,
but it also allowed the machine to take up to 8GB of RAM in 2
x 4GB modules. Also a new version was released with 2 x 500GB
hard drives (the second one replacing the SuperDrive optical
drive) and Mac OS X 10.6 Server installed - designed as a server
for a small business or group, it also makes a nice high-end
home server. Specs for the standard model are
here, and the server model here.
In June 2010 a new model was launched with a redesigned, smaller case.
The external power adapter from earlier models was also done
away with. The redesign of the case also allows much easier access
to the memory sockets than earlier models - RAM is replaceable
by the home user now rather than requiring professional fitting.
Maximum memory capacity was upgraded to 8GB in 2 x 4GB DDR3 PC8500
(models running 10.7.5 or later with the latest EFI update can
run 16GB in 2 x 8GB modules) a SD card slot was added, and the
graphics card was upgraded. Apple specs here (server
version here).
In July 2011 a new model based around the Core i5 CPU was released.
Along with general upgrades to CPU and graphics card and the
addition of a thunderbolt port, the memory speed was increased
to 1333MHz (PC10600) - maximum RAM upgraded to 16GB inn 2 x 8GB
modules. This model was also notable with the dropping of the
DVD drive, making this the first non-server Mac apart from the
MacBook Air to be sold without an internal optical drive. The
space can be used to fit a secondary hard drive or SSD, although
unless the model is supplied with a drive in the second bay there
will not be a mounting bracket for one. Apple specs here.
Server version here.
In October 2012 introduced a new model of the standard and server Mac
mini. The standard version was released with a 2.5GHz Core i5
or 2.3GHz Core i7 (with a 2.6GHz build to order option). The
server in a 2.3GHz Core i7 (with 2.6GHz build to order option).
The memory type was upgraded to take DDR3 1600MHz PC12800 memory,
with a maximum of 16GB in 2 x 8GB modules. Apple specs here for
the standard model and here for the server.
The next revision came out in October 2014, with a 1.4GHz Core i5, 2.6GHz
Core i5 oand 2.8GHz Core i5 CPU options (3.0GHz Core i7 available
via build to order). Changes to upgrades were major, with the
RAM being soldered onto the logic board and unupgradeable after
purchase. These models can take a 2.5in SATA 600 drive, and a PCIe attached
blade SSD. Despite the very similar external design to the previous
models, these machines are considerably more difficult to open
to work upon, and extremely non-standard screw types have been
used. Apple specs here.
How to Identify these Machines
The Mac mini form factor is instantly recognisable due to its small size (about the size of two CD jewel cases stacked on top of each other).
This Intel Mac mini does look similar to the previous PowerPC G4 based Mac mini, and the easiest way to tell them apart is to use Apple System Profiler and check the CPU type. Also the PowerPC Mac mini has only two USB 2.0 ports, whereas the Intel version has four.
The first major change within the range regarding upgrades was in March
2009, which changed the type of RAM and the type of optical drive used.
The models can be distinguished by opening system profiler (Apple menu > About
this Mac, then click the "More Info" button). The March 2009
model has a bus speed of 1066MHz, earlier machine have a slower speed.
The March 2009 model can also use a total of 8GB of RAM in 2 x 4GB modules,
as long as it has had the EFI Firmware update 1.2 applied.
Then in October 2009 a revision that was mainly a speed bump and can run
8GB in 2 x 4GB modules.
The third notable change was June 2010, a redesigned case makes memory
a user installable part.
The forth major change was July 2011, where memory type was changed from
PC8500 (1066MHz) to PC10600 (1333MHz). This model dropped the DVD drive and
has a thunderbolt port.
The next change is in October 2012, where the memory type was upgraded to
DDR3 PC12800 1600MHz memory.
The next revision in October 2014 also uses DDR3 PC12800 1600MHz memory (which
is non-upgradeable in this model. It has dropped the FireWire 800 port
from the previous model, and replaced the single Thunderbolt port with
two Thunderbolt 2 ports.
Memory Upgrades
Mac mini's produced up to March 2009 can accept up to 2GB of memory. There is are two slots available which take PC2-5300 SODIMM RAM. RAM in this machine must be installed in matched pairs - i.e. you can have 2 x 256MB, 2 x 512MB or 2 x 1GB configurations. Suitable for Mac minis with a bus speed less than 1066Mhz.
The March 2009 revision can take up to 8GB of RAM in 2 x 4GB DDR3
PC8500, but it does require the EFI Firmware update 1.2 to be applied
- if you run Software Update when connected to the internet and it
does not show a pending EFI update then you meet this requirement.
In October 2009 the Mac mini moved to taking up to 8GB of DDR3
PC8500 memory in 2 x 4GB modules.
The model released June 2010 is the same in its stock configuration,
but this model running 10.7.5 or later with the latest EFI update
can run 16GB in 2 x 8GB modules. The redesigned case makes user
memory installation a much simpler task.
The July 2011 model - the model where the DVD drive was dropped - can
use 16GB of PC10600 (133MHz) memory in 2 x 8GB modules. Memory should
be installed in pairs.
The October 2012 model can use up to 16GB of PC12800 (1600MHz) memory
in 2 x 8GB modules. Memory should be installed in pairs.
The October 2014 model cannot have its RAM upgraded after purchase due
to the modules being soldered in place.
Should be installed in pairs. Suitable for the October 2012 model - Core i5 or i7 processor, thunderbolt port, no optical drive, with a memory speed of 1600MHz.
3
Suitable for the October 2012 model - Core i5 or i7 processor, thunderbolt port, no optical drive, with a memory speed of 1600MHz.
4
Should be installed in pairs. Suitable for the July 2011 model - Core i5 processor, thunderbolt port, no optical drive, with a memory speed of 1333MHz.
5
Should be installed in pairs. Only suitable for models after March 2009 but before July 2011, so suitable for all Mac minis with a bus speed of 1066MHz. Note March 09 model must be running EFI Firmware update 1.2 or later.
6
Compatible with mid-2010 models (Model ID: Macmini4,1), but only those running 10.7.5 or later with the latest EFI update. See here for details.
Any fitting information below is intended as a guide before purchase ONLY, when fitting these products you should refer to the original manual for your computer, and any instructions that come with the item. Please see this page for more information, or here for information on our fitting service.
Difficulty 5 / 5 - Difficult (pre June 2010). Difficulty 3/5 Fairly Easy
(post June 2010)
For models prior to June 2010, Apple recommends professional installation
for the RAM - to protect you and your investment. Improperly
fitting the RAM or damaging the insides by doing this yourself MAY invalidate
your Apple warranty.
We can sell you the RAM but cannot support you through the installation.
For models after June 2010 we recommend user installation. Instructions
can be found in chapter 3 of your user guide - downloadable
here (pdf).
The Mac minis made up until July 2011 came with either a slot loading
Combo or Superdrive optical mechanism. Models up until March 2009
use an IDE type drive, later ones use a SATA device. Models after
July 2011 do not have an optical drive.
For Mac minis made before the Early 2009 revision that changed to the Unibody case type.
2
Only suitable for Mac minis sold from March 2009 which have a SATA optical drive - non-server models with a bus speed of 1066MHz or faster without a Thunderbolt port.
Any fitting information below is intended as a guide before purchase ONLY, when fitting these products you should refer to the original manual for your computer, and any instructions that come with the item. Please see this page for more information, or here for information on our fitting service.
Difficulty 5/5 - Very Hard (internal)
The optical drive on the Mac mini is not classified by Apple as a user installed part. Mac Upgrades can install drives for you, please contact us for details.
You can purchase the drive for installation yourself, but Mac Upgrades cannot provide instructions or support for the install process.
Internal Hard Drive & SSD Upgrades
The Mac mini uses a SATA laptop 2.5" hard drive or SSD for its internal
storage. This is generally a laptop drive which means that they
have a lower capacity, and higher cost, than those for a normal
desktop computer.
You can also fit an additional hard drive or SSD into Mac minis. Earlier
models can replace the DVD drive with another hard drive or SSD.
Later models can either take two drives by default (server models)
or can fit a second hard drive using a mounting kit.
To get an idea of the performance differences between a hard drive and
an SSD, see this
video from OWC - the SSD used is the OWC Mercuary Extreme Pro 6G which
is listed below.
The 2014 model is significantly harder to work upon than previous models.
It has a single bay for a 2.5in SATA 600 drive (as listed below),
and can take a PCIe attached blade SSD (not yet available as
an aftermarket part).
Professional installation is highly recommended as your warranty may be voided by an incorrect installation.
If you don't want to fit a new hard drive yourself, you can take advantage of the MacUpgrades Installation Service. Add the installation service from the list below to your cart along with your chosen hard drive. We can also clone your existing hard drive onto the new one, simply add the Clone Original Hard Drive service below to your cart.
Once you have booked the service, send your machine to us, we will carry out the work and return it to you. Alternatively, we do offer a Collection Service with our courier, please see here for details.
Professional installation recommended for the earlier case type models - pre June 2010. Not compatible with 2018 and later models.
3
Recommended for models prior to the Mid 2011 (models without Thunderbolt). These have a SATA 300 or SATA 150 controller.
4
Suitable for the 2009 - 2014 revisions inclusive.
5
Only suitable for models prior to March 2009, so suitable for Mac minis with a bus speed slower than 1066MHz.
6
Only suitable for Mac minis sold from March 2009 which have a SATA optical drive - non-server models with a bus speed of 1066MHz or faster without a Thunderbolt port.
7
For Mid 2011 and later Mac minis which need additional cabling to mount an additional 2.5in drive. For 2011 and 2012 models, these are models sold with a single drive. For the 2014 models, it is those sold with an SSD only (no hard drive or fusion drive). Additional screwdriver needed for the 2014 models. WARNING Correct procedure MUST be followed to avoid data loss when adding an SSD to some 2012 Mac minis with this kit - see here.
Any fitting information below is intended as a guide before purchase ONLY, when fitting these products you should refer to the original manual for your computer, and any instructions that come with the item. Please see this page for more information, or here for information on our fitting service.
Difficulty 4 / 5 - Difficult
Apple recommends professional installation for the hard drive - to protect you and your investment. Improperly fitting the HDD, or damaging the insides, by doing this yourself MAY invalidate your Apple warranty.
We can sell you the HDD but cannot support you through the installation. If you like we can install the drive for you.
The Mac mini has all of its components on one logic board. Consequently it is not possible to upgrade the graphics cards on these machines.
There are no graphics card upgrades available for these Macs
Expansion Card Upgrades
The Mac mini does not have any expansion slots, therefore the only expansion card it can take is an Airport Extreme card - which is fitted by default on all models but can be upgraded.
There are none available.
Keyboards & Mice
The following keyboards and mice are compatible with this Mac.
Any fitting information below is intended as a guide before purchase ONLY, when fitting these products you should refer to the original manual for your computer, and any instructions that come with the item. Please see this page for more information, or here for information on our fitting service.
Cables & Tools
Listed below are power cables, tools and related products
we supply for this Mac.
Works with any Mac with a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 connection - also can be used on one with USB 3 Type A with an adaptor.
3
This can be connected to this Mac to access a 2.5in SATA drive. Models up to and including the 2012 use a 2.5in SATA drive internally, and 2014 models that were sold with a hard drive (rather than SSD).
4
For models with a Mini DisplayPort video output port.
5
For models with a Mini-DVI video output port.
6
For models with a DVI video output port.
External Drives & Enclosures
This Mac can use any of the following external hard drives.
NB: The March 2009 revision of the Mac mini replaced the FireWire
400 port with a FireWire 800 port. Therefore to use a drive which has
FireWire 400 only you will need an adapter or a 6pin - 9pin FireWire
cable. FireWire was dropped entirely in the October 2014 revision.
Fully compatible with models with Thunderbolt 3, will work with an adaptor and at reduced speed with models with Thunderbolt 1 or 2.
4
This can be connected to this Mac to access a 3.5in SATA drive. But this Mac does not use a 3.5in SATA drive internally.
5
This can be connected to this Mac to access a 2.5in SATA drive. Models up to and including the 2012 use a 2.5in SATA drive internally, and 2014 models that were sold with a hard drive (rather than SSD).
6
Compatible with Apple-supplied PCIe SSDs from the 2014 Mac mini (excluding those manufactured by Toshiba).
Any fitting information below is intended as a guide before purchase ONLY, when fitting these products you should refer to the original manual for your computer, and any instructions that come with the item. Please see this page for more information, or here for information on our fitting service.
Complete Machines - Refurbished
Any complete machines of this type or similar that we have for sale are listed here. Please note that these are refurbished models with a 3 month warranty, and that delivery is likely to take 3 - 5 working days. These can be purchased online with the standard website courier delivery charge for the mainland UK only. Please contact us for a quote on shipping to other areas.
There are none available.
Repair Services for this Mac
Here are the various repair services we offer for this Mac. You can have us take the machine in for evaluation, or book a fixed-price repair if you already know what the fault is and the service is listed below (for services without parts, please see the relevant tab on this page for compatible parts that we sell). If you know what the fault is, but we don't have a fixed-price repair listed below, please contact
us for a quote.
For fitting RAM into Mac minis with the older 2009 and Earlier) case type.
3
For fitting RAM into Mac minis of the 2010, 2011 and 2012 revisions.
4
For fitting RAM into Mac minis from 2018.
5
For Mac minis made before the Early 2009 revision that changed to the Unibody case type.
6
Only suitable for Mac minis sold from March 2009 which have a SATA optical drive - non-server models with a bus speed of 1066MHz or faster without a Thunderbolt port.