Can a RAM module not be compatible with Macs? There are DDR3 RAM modules sold on Amazon (branded by KomputerBay) where it is specified that they are "PC only" and not for Mac. They cost around £41.99 ($68).

The same company has modules with the same exact technical specifications on Amazon, called "for Apple" RAM. They cost significantly more £53.99 ($87).

Apart from the $20 price jump, what could be different? Is this a scam to make Apple users pay more?



Here are the specifications of both the "PC only" and "MacMemory" RAM from KomputerBay:


PC3-12800 (1600MHz)
Gold leads
Supports Dual Channel
DDR3
204 Pin
Laptop memory upgrade
Non-ECC
Non-Parity
Unbuffered
Density: 16GB (2x 8GB SO-DIMM)
Timing: 10-10-10-27 (1600 MHz)
Speed: 1600MHz CL10
Pin Out: 204 Pin
1.5V
Lifetime Warranty
Since Apple is using the same CPU and mostly intel logic boards, as long as you get the CAS latency and other details exactly perfect, it's hard to imagine you would buy the wrong memory.

Perhaps it boils down to support and testing. If the vendor literally spends more money testing and supporting the Mac memory, it's their privilege to sell it for more. If they don't and are just looking to maximize profit, that happens too. Look at Amazon charging different price based on who they think you are, what you have bought, etc... Same with airlines that charge different prices based on cookies set from previous flight searches.

In the end - all that matters is you understand the return policy and how to test things once you get the RAM. Then it's just a calculation, you estimate how much is your time is worth and you minimize your transaction cost - pay more for an easy buy that saves you time or spend more time looking for and researching a bargain. Perhaps the seller has decided Mac users value their time more highly and you can score a deal by saying you are buying PC RAM.

Happy RAM hunting.