Memory vs Storage on Mac

What is memory on Mac

Generally, when we refer to a Mac’s memory, we’re talking about RAM, which Apple refers to as “Unified Memory.” RAM is a component located on the computer’s motherboard and consists of several memory chips. In the current line of Macs, the minimum capacity is 16 GB and can reach up to an outstanding 512 GB in the Mac Studio.

RAM stores temporary data, enabling your Mac to access files and apps instantly and remember recent settings or changes. As such, it’s essential for smooth performance and multitasking, allowing you to switch between browser tabs and running apps without lag.

For tips on expanding your Mac’s memory, be sure to check out our detailed guide on how to get more RAM on Mac.

What is storage on Mac

In contrast, storage refers to the drive where all your files–such as photos, videos, and documents–are permanently saved. Historically, there have been two main types of storage: HDDs (hard disk drives) and SSDs (solid-state drives). Today, the tech industry overwhelmingly favors SSDs for their superior speed and efficiency.

Apple has also embraced this shift, equipping all current Mac models with SSDs. Solid-state storage significantly boosts file and app read/write speeds, but it still has its limitations. Modern Macs start with at least 256 GB of storage, and the most powerful models can offer up to an impressive 16 TB.

Is 265 GB enough for a MacBook? Find detailed answers and expert recommendations in our comprehensive guide.

Difference between memory and storage on MacBook

If you’re still unsure about the difference between memory and storage, check out our table below for a clear comparison of their key distinctions:

Your memory and storage requirements can play a key role in choosing your next Mac. To make an informed decision, we suggest checking out our guide on the difference between MacBook Air and Pro.

A note from our experts: 

 

If your Mac is running slowly, freeing up memory can significantly boost its performance. Instead of managing this manually, try MacKeeper’s Memory Cleaner. This tool automatically closes unnecessary processes and memory-draining apps to help your Mac run faster.

 

Follow our instructions to use MacKeeper’s Memory Cleaner on your Mac:

1. Download MacKeeper on your Mac or MacBook. Then, install and open it on your computer.
2. Select Memory Cleaner from the sidebar, located directly below Performance.
3. Click Open, then click Clean Memory.
4. Wait until the process is done and repeat as needed.

How much memory is enough on Mac (by user type)

We’ve established how crucial memory is for Mac performance, but the ideal amount of RAM varies from person to person. For example, the requirements for someone who uses a Mac for business differ greatly from those of someone working in professional photo and video editing.

Generally, macOS manages memory efficiently, but your intended use can dictate whether you need more power. If you’re still using a Mac with 8 GB of RAM, we believe you should consider upgrading–even for everyday tasks like web browsing and word processing. For those tackling more demanding work, if your 16 GB Mac has started to lag, it may also be time to upgrade.

Refer to our table below to check how much RAM is recommended for your specific needs:

How much storage do you need on Mac (for different user needs)

When purchasing a Mac, we suggest considering that you’ll need significantly more storage than on other devices, like a smartphone. Keep in mind that you’ll need enough space to store all your apps, personal files, and backups. However, not all Mac users need the same amount of internal memory.

Again, we can categorize Mac owners into three groups: casual, intermediate, and expert users. Casual users won’t need more than 512 GB, and in some cases, even 256 GB will suffice. This is enough to store some photos, documents, and music files. You can take advantage of streaming and cloud storage platforms to save space.

On the other hand, intermediate users, including students, should have at least 1 TB. You’ll be able to store all your university files, photos, and small videos, and install the necessary apps to complete your tasks.

For users who require additional power, we recommend options with more than 2 TB of storage. You’ll be able to work on creative and professional projects without worrying about the file taking up too much space. This will give you the freedom to store high-resolution videos and photos in one place, without needing to carry external memory devices everywhere.

However, predicting exactly how much storage you’ll need can be challenging. Explore our tips below to manage and optimize space on your Mac effectively:

• Cloud storage services: Take advantage of iCloud or similar platforms to store your photos, videos, and other large files. iCloud also lets you back up your macOS system without consuming local storage.
• External drives: Free up space on your Mac by moving files you don’t need immediate access to onto external SSDs. These drives are ideal for storing documents, photos, and videos, and can also serve as reliable backup solutions.
• Optimize Storage option: Navigate to Apple menu > System Settings > General > Storage and select Optimize. While not a complete solution, this feature can help you reclaim space by removing already-watched Apple TV content and other unnecessary files.
• Third-party apps: Consider using specialized software to automate storage cleanup. These apps help you eliminate redundant files, clear temporary data, clean cache, and more for ongoing maintenance.
• Upgrade storage: If you consistently run out of space, it may be time to upgrade to a Mac with greater storage capacity. Consider second-hand or refurbished models for a cost-effective solution when seeking more room without a hefty price tag.

MacBook memory vs storage: Everything you need to know

While both memory and storage are crucial for your Mac’s smooth operation, they serve entirely different purposes. Understanding the role of each is crucial–not only for addressing performance issues but also for making informed decisions when selecting RAM and storage capacities for a new Mac.

If speed and performance are your main concerns, tools like MacKeeper’s Memory Cleaner can help. By removing unnecessary files and closing redundant processes, you’ll keep your Mac running efficiently and smoothly.