128GB Memory for 2013 Mac Pro

2014-03-17 • SEND FEEDBACK |
Related: 2013 Mac Pro, Mac Pro, memory, Other World Computing

Several readers have written to note that Transcend has announced a 128GB memory kit for the 2013 Mac Pro. MPG has no experience with Transcend memory but has bought and used several hundred gigabytes worth of experience with OWC memory in a variety of different Macs over the years.

OWC has also been working on a 128GB kit (4 X 32GB, 1333 MHz); MPG will have an OWC 128GB memory kit for testing on or around March 24th.

OWC states that pricing will be announced next week and it will be possible to order around the same time.

Details:

• The 32GB modules run at 1333 MHz, which means lower performance than the 1866 MHz speed of the 16GB or 8GB or 4GB modules. How much this affects performance awaits testing.
• The 32GB modules can be mixed with 16GB modules, so (for example), a 96GB configuration is possible (2 X 32GB + 2 X 16GB).
• While a single 32GB module should function (mix) with the 16GB modules, OWC advises pairs of matched modules.

MPG will ascertain what the speed impact is of using 1333MHz modules, but note that when more memory is really needed, more memory trumps memory speed. And if 64GB is already ample, going to slower-speed 128GB memory is not a win. In short, 128GB is for big jobs.

OWC memory page.

Modules shown are 16GB modules (MPG does not have 32GB imagery as yet).