Has your laptop started to act a bit slow? Are programs taking forever to load? Does the computer seem to lag when you have multiple tabs open in your browser? You may want to consider upgrading your RAM.
RAM (Random Access Memory) can be understood as the short-term memory of your computer. More RAM installed on your laptop will allow it to open and process more data at once which makes multitasking a lot easier.
But can I add RAM to my Laptop? This depends on the model you have, but there is no need to panic, this guide will provide all the answers you seek.
Well yes, in fact, there are a number of ways to upgrade your laptop RAM. Laptop memory can be either augmented or increased through the addition or replacement of RAM modules. Make sure you first check the laptop’s maximum RAM capacity and DDR RAM compatibility.
Those who frequently encounter freezing or lagging while using a pc should be aware of the fact that their RAM capacity is most likely low. In order to upgrade the RAM on Windows 10, First open the laptop panel, take out the old RAM, and put in the updated one.
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Why Do You Need to Upgrade Your Laptop’s RAM?
Other reasons can promote upgrading the RAM in your laptop; let us explore these in more detail:
Improved Multitasking
More storage space means an increased number of applications that can run at once without crashing your computer. Because of this, and in terms of efficiency, reloading or shifting to another application is no longer necessary.
Faster Program Loading
Loading times can be cut down significantly by adding additional RAM to your computer. If it was ever a bother for you to launch a web browser, edit photos, or even load up a game, I can assure you that as long as the extra RAM is added, then all of those issues will no longer exist.
Enhanced Gaming Experience
If you are a gamer, upgrading the RAM of your computer will be a great help, since it will allow smoother frame rates and shorter load times for RAM-heavy games.
Reduced Lag and Freezing
Having to work with lagging or freezing applications is extremely annoying; however, with the added RAM on your laptop, you won’t have to wait for an application to respond. This makes for a much more pleasant and faster experience.
Can You Add RAM to a Laptop?
Yes, it is possible to install additional RAM into a laptop to improve its performance. Lenovo, HP, or a gaming laptop, can be RAM upgraded. Depending on compatibility you can choose Crucial, Kingston, Samsung, or Corsair brands.
SODIMM RAM modules are used in laptops. Adding RAM externally or virtually can also be done in order to meet the specifications of a laptop increasing its performance speed and multitasking capabilities.
Keep in mind that not all lappies are born to allow you to add more RAM. So then, how would you confirm that your device has potential for improvements?
Check Your Laptop Manual
Verification of the laptop manual is the first step. RAM upgrade requirements, how to do it, and maximum compatible RAM upgrades should be available there.
Consult the Manufacturer’s Website
If the manual is not steering you in the right direction, you may want to check out what the manufacturer shows on their web page. Several brands offer comprehensive information about their products, as well as on how to modify them.
Use System Information Tools
If none of these options works for your laptop, you can check the configuration of the RAM on your laptop along with the possible upgrades using system information tools such as “System Information” in Windows or “System Report” in Mac.
Finding the Perfect RAM Upgrade
After confirming that your laptop is amenable to an upgrade, it’s now time to find a suitable RAM upgrade for your task functionality:
RAM Type
The item you are buying will be determined to suit your Laptop or PC as required (DDR3 or DDR4) for Compatibility.
RAM Speed
Always check the speeds of different RAM kits that are compatible with the system so that you can pick the right one.
RAM Capacity
For effective multitasking, how much RAM should you think of getting for yourself? In my opinion, 8GB is a good base to start from but from my personal experience, it is better to switch over to 16GB to 32 GB especially gamers or more demanding tasks.
How Many Modules Newer Laptops or PCs Have
In case you are a gamer or are using advanced PCs, it’s quite probable that your laptop has more than 1 RAM slot, so in that case you have the option of modifying existing modules or upgrading the one module currently there.
Upgrading Your Laptop RAM in 4 Easy Steps
In case you are a gamer or are using advanced PCs, it’s quite probable that your laptop has more than 1 RAM slot, so in that case you have the option of modifying existing modules or upgrading the one module currently there.
Before You Begin:
- Gather your tools: You have to possess a small Phillips screwdriver along with a small opening that is tidy and has appropriate lighting.
- Power down and unplug your laptop: Always ensure your laptop is completely off before opening it up.
- Optional: Make Sure to Switch Off any Computer before opening it up at any instance and make sure that it is unplugged.
Step 1: Access the RAM Compartment
Refer first to your computer’s manual or something online. You can usually find the RAM compartment on the bottom side of your laptop and this is also secured with screws.
Step 2: Locate the RAM Slots
Once you open the compartment, you will find one or more RAM slots. Usually, these are long thin slots where RAM modules are placed and connected.
Step 3: Remove the Existing RAM (If Applicable)
Unclip all the retaining clips that hold the RAM modules or steps in such a way take care of the gold parts by the edges so as to not touch them and pull out the RAM modules.
Step 4: Install the New RAM
Find the notch on the new RAM module, which interferes with the notch on the slot for RAM. Then, gently, slant the module at a certain angle and insert it till it snaps into place and repeat the process for more modules if more are required.
Step 5: Reassemble Your Laptop
Gently remove the screws that secure the RAM compartment cover and put the cover back in its original position. If you’ve pulled the battery out at the previous steps, place it back at this point.
Step 6: Power On Your Laptop and Verify the Upgrade
Turn the laptop on, and after powering it on, search for the system information on your laptop enabling you to check whether the new RAM is now available.
Bravo! You have updated your laptop’s RAM. Now, go ahead and enjoy the performance and user experience that this upgrade brings.
Further Tips and Suggestions
The previous section walked you through the basic requirements for installing an additional memory type in your laptop. This section delves a little deeper with more advanced requirements and how troubleshooting can face off against some issues:
Dual-Channel vs. Single-Channel RAM
Most laptops support dual-channel configurations however only a few are able to implement it, with the few slots being able to use both copies to be configured. If your laptop has two slots for RAM, do physically pair them to get leaves.
Upgrading to the Maximum Capacity
As a golden rule, your RAM should always be the maximum amount allowable with your computer- Go through the specifications mentioned of your laptop in order to observe the RAM limit.
Mixing RAM Modules (Proceed with Caution)
It is possible to do this however won’t be necessary or recommended to mix RAM modules of different numbers. If anything, try to get the exact modules instead however switch them out too wide to avoid problems.
Troubleshooting Boot Issues After Upgrade
There can be several factors that can prohibit your laptop from working including the RAM not being placed correctly or something being installed wrong. Ensure the slots being used are correct or consult someone who specializes in this area for advice.
Looking After Your Installed RAM
After adding the additional RAM, you should consider the following factors:
- Protection against dust: It is important to clean the vents of your laptop regularly to prevent dust from accumulating which can affect performance.
- Keeping it cool: Make sure that the laptop does not get heated up too much as overheating can be harmful to the RAM.
- Defrag your HDD or trim your SDD: this might assist in increasing the overall functioning of a system while complementing the RAM add-ons.
FAQs
Does increasing the RAM help speed up my laptop?
Yes, for sure. Long-term and long-term are the two components of the memory of your laptop which are actually formed of RAM chips. More RAM allows your computer to work on different tasks simultaneously and retrieve any required information fairly speedily. More RAM means you allow programs to boot faster, multitask better without slowing down, and reduce lag and freezing.
How much RAM is actually needed these days?
In normal day-to-day activities of opening a couple of web pages, checking emails, or leveraging some productivity software, starting at 8GB of RAM should be optimal. However, if you are a heavy user of games, video editing, or complex software, then you should upgrade to up to 16GB or 32GB of RAM in order to avail of differing performance.
Is it possible to upgrade the RAM of my Laptop?
Unfortunately, the answer is no in the case of most laptops. The manual for your laptop or its manufacturer’s website will confirm whether your model allows for RAM upgrades or alternatively system information tools may be used.
I want to purchase new RAM and am wondering what I should consider?
There are three such things, the first one is the type of RAM required whether DDR3 or DDR4 depending upon how old your laptop is, second is the speed of RAM required, the greater the MHz, the greater the speed of data transfer, third and the last one is the Capacity of RAM required which again depends on the usage ie. 8GB for normal usage, and more than 16GB if the use is intensive.
Is it difficult to install RAM?
In general, adding additional RAM is a fairly hassle-free activity. A small screwdriver and a reasonably clean area will suffice as tools for the task. By following the guide in the LuckyStar guide installing your new RAM can never be easier, this of course assumes that you are confident that all of the RAMs will be compatible or that you are willing to open your laptop for a possible upgrade, if otherwise then visiting a computer technician is a great option.
Conclusion
It is a great idea to install more RAM in your laptop if you want to upgrade its performance. With the help of these steps, as well as the aforementioned tips, you can effectively maximize the performance capability of your device with additional RAM. After this successful upgrade, you will be able to run several more applications at the same time, speed up the time when programs are loaded, and enjoy the use of the computer more than before. Can you add RAM to a laptop? Yes, you can! Now that you have the information and resources, get it done! Enjoy the upgrade!
