Why Does the 2017 Mac Pro Use DDR3 RAM While Some iMacs Use DDR4
The 2017 Mac Pro uses DDR4 RAM, not DDR3. This might raise questions, especially given the supposed superiority of DDR4 technology. However, the choice of RAM type can be influenced by several factors, including performance needs, cost considerations, and specific model design goals. In this article, we will explain why the 2017 Mac Pro uses DDR4, while some less expensive iMacs rely on DDR3, and why the 2019 Mac Pro and the modern Mac Studio move to newer technologies.
Mac Pro 2017 and DDR4 RAM
The 2017 Mac Pro was a significant step forward in terms of technology. It marked the transition from the 2013 design, which used ECC (Error-Correcting Code) RAM in DDR3 format. The new 2017 model offered much better performance. According to the specifications, it provided a memory bandwidth of 265 GB/sec when running at 1866 MHz. By comparison, the later 2019 model uses DDR4 RAM at 2933 MHz but only provides a bandwidth of 140 GB/sec.
Performance Specifications of 2017 Mac Pro
The 2017 Mac Pro's DDR4 RAM version supports dual-channel memory with four memory slots. While the newer 2019 Mac Pro model also has 6 memory channels, it operates at a slower bandwidth of 140 GB/sec, which is significantly lower than the 265 GB/sec of the 2017 model. This example clearly shows how the newer model balances performance and cost, making the 2017 Mac Pro a step forward in terms of computing power and efficiency.
Less Expensive iMacs and DDR3 RAM
Some less expensive iMac models, particularly those released before 2020, use DDR3 RAM. This choice is primarily driven by cost considerations. DDR3 RAM was less expensive and sufficient for the performance needs of general users compared to professionals. In contrast, the Mac Pro, designed for professional users, requires equipment that can handle tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and software development. These tasks justify the use of advanced DDR4 RAM.
Cost-Performance Balance in iMacs
The decision to use DDR3 in less expensive iMacs reflects the company's strategy to balance cost and performance for their target audience. These models are tailored for everyday users, who generally do not require the same level of performance demanded by professional-grade hardware. The use of DDR3 RAM in these iMacs ensures that users get a good balance between performance and affordability.
The Modern Mac Studio and Beyond
The Mac Studio, which was released in 2021, introduces more advanced RAM technologies. For the Mac Studio, low power DDR5-6400 RAM is used, which does not include ECC. This model offers either a M1 Max with 400 GB/sec bandwidth or a M1 Ultra with 800 GB/sec bandwidth. The M1 Ultra has 32 memory channels, while the M1 Max has 16. This showcases the latest advancements in RAM technology and how it is being integrated into modern Mac hardware.
No LPDDR5-6400 RAM DIMMs Available
There are no 32 DIMM socket PCs available with LPDDR5-6400 RAM DIMMs right now. This reflects the current technological landscape where high-performance computing options continue to evolve. While the M1 Ultra and M1 Max emphasize the current state of RAM technology in Apple's hardware, it also hints at the continued development and investment in advanced RAM solutions by the company.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2017 Mac Pro uses DDR4 RAM, while some less expensive iMacs use DDR3. This choice reflects the differing performance needs and cost considerations of the two product lines. The Mac Pro, designed for professional use, benefits from the advanced DDR4 technology, while the less expensive iMacs prioritize cost-efficiency without compromising on essential functionality.