The demand for higher RAM has grown with modern software and multitasking needs. When your system’s RAM is inadequate for the tasks it handles, it leads to sluggish performance, delayed application launches, and even system freezes. If you are working on a video or photo editing project using software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Photoshop, having 4GB or 8GB of RAM can severely limit your workflow. One of the simple and effective ways to improve the performance of your laptop or desktop PC is by upgrading the RAM. But how to upgrade RAM?
If you have little to no experience working on computer hardware, then the process of upgrading RAM might seem extremely complicated. However, it is actually one of the simplest types of upgrades you can perform on your computer.
In this guide, we would like to take you through a step-by-step process of upgrading the RAM in your laptop or PC. Whether you are a gamer, a professional working with heavy software (CAD, Video Editing, etc.), or an everyday user looking to speed up basic tasks, adding more RAM can significantly boost your system’s responsiveness.
NOTE: All the steps we discussed in this guide apply to Windows PCs and Laptops. If you are looking to upgrade RAM on your Mac (MacBook, Mac Studio, etc.), then you are better off talking to Apple Support (or contacting an authorized Apple Service Center).
Things To Consider Before Upgrading RAM
Now that you have decided to upgrade your computer’s RAM, don’t go blindly and buy the first RAM you come across (either at a physical store or online). Before purchasing new memory modules, you must consider your system’s compatibility with the RAM, the type of RAM required, and the available slots for installation.
System Compatibility
Every motherboard comes with a specific limit on how much RAM it can support. The same is true for a laptop as well. Most current-gen consumer-grade desktop motherboards support between 64GB to 128GB of RAM (older models may support only 16GB or 32GB).
If your computer already has the maximum RAM it can support, then you cannot upgrade further. The best way to check the maximum amount of RAM your computer supports is through the user manual or the manufacturer’s website.
There is a quick (but sometimes not accurate) way to check the maximum RAM support on a Windows machine. Open Command Prompt (click the Start button or press the Windows key, type cmd, and open it) and enter the following command:
wmic memphysical get maxcapacity
The output is RAM size in kilobytes (KB) and this is what Windows thinks is the absolute maximum your system can support. You can divide this number by 1024 twice to get the RAM in gigabytes (GB).
Number Of Available Slots
The next step is to determine the number of free RAM slots in your system. In Windows, open the Task Manager. Under the “Performance” tab select “Memory”. You will see the current RAM installed in the system as well as the number of slots.
Most laptops come with two RAM Slots. Some modern laptops come with soldered RAM. In that case, you might still have one free slot to expand RAM. On desktop PCs, four RAM slots are quite common (ATX and Micro-ATX). However, if you have a small form factor motherboard (mini-ITX, for example), you will have only two RAM slots.
Check your device, be it a laptop or a desktop PC, before making a purchase.
Type Of RAM
Computer RAM comes in several versions, such as DDR3, DDR4, and the newer DDR5. Each generation has a different architecture, and they are not interchangeable. For instance, a motherboard designed for DDR4 RAM cannot accommodate DDR3 or DDR5 memory sticks. At the time of writing this guide, most modern systems use DDR4 or DDR5, with DDR5 slowly becoming more popular.
The next important factor is the RAM Speed, which is represented in megahertz (MHz). You must match the memory’s MHz with what your motherboard supports. While faster speeds allow quicker data access, using a RAM module with a higher speed than your motherboard can support won’t provide additional benefits.
For example, if your motherboard supports 3200MHz, buying a 4000MHz stick will still run at 3200MHz. Currently, DDR5 modules range from 4800MHz to over 8000MHz, while DDR4’s typical range is from 2400MHz to 3600MHz.
Apart from the type of RAM and its speed, you also need to consider the form factor of the RAM. Desktops use DIMM (Dual Inline Memory Module) sticks, which are larger and can hold more memory. Laptops, on the other hand, use SODIMM (Small Outline DIMM) sticks, which are smaller and fit within compact spaces.
Before purchasing RAM (especially online), double-check the form factor. If you buy the wrong one, it will physically not fit into the slots even if the technical specifications are correct.
Tools You’ll Need To Upgrade RAM
Before starting the RAM upgrade, you have to gather a few important tools.
First, use an anti-static wrist strap to prevent static electricity from harming your computer’s components. Static discharge can damage sensitive hardware, including the motherboard and memory modules. An anti-static wrist strap connects you to a grounded object so that your body and your computer’s components are at the same electrical potential.
Next, you’ll need a screwdriver set, preferably with magnetic tips. Most computers and laptops require a Phillips head screwdriver, but having a set with various sizes is always better.
Laptops often use smaller screws, so you will need a precision screwdriver set. Desktop cases, on the other hand, typically use larger screws for securing the panels and components. If the side panels use thumb screws, you don’t need any screwdriver. In case you need to remove some panel screws, get magnetic-tipped screwdrivers. This will help prevent screws from falling into hard-to-reach places inside your computer.
Lastly, choose a proper workspace for the upgrade. A clean, non-conductive surface, like a wooden or plastic table, is ideal. Avoid working on metal or carpeted surfaces as they can generate static electricity.
How To Upgrade RAM In A Desktop PC?
Whether you are adding more memory or replacing existing RAM in your desktop, the following steps will help you upgrade the RAM without much hassle.
Step 1: Power Down And Unplug
We will begin the upgrade process by powering down the desktop completely. Click “Shut down” from the Windows Start menu and wait for the system to turn off completely.
Once the PC has powered down, turn the switch off (either near the wall socket or on the PSU) but keep the power cable plugged into the wall socket (you will see why in a bit). You can disconnect all peripherals attached to the system, including the monitor, keyboard, mouse, and any external drives.
After you’ve unplugged everything, wait a few moments to allow any residual charge to dissipate.
Step 2: Open The Case
With your system powered down, you can now open the PC case. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws securing the side panel. If your PC case comes with thumb screws, simply unscrew them.
After loosening the screws, gently slide or lift the side panel off and place it aside. Place the screws in a secure location so that you won’t lose them.
Next, ground yourself to prevent static electricity. Wear an anti-static wrist strap and clip it to a metal part of the case or another grounded surface. If you want to use the PC Case or its power supply, make sure the power cable is plugged in but the switch is off. This way, the metal part is connected to the electrical ground. If you unplug the cable, the metal part will be floating and won’t provide any discharge path.
Step 3: Locate The RAM Slots
Once the case is open, locate the RAM slots on the motherboard. If you are not familiar, these slots are long, thin, and positioned parallel to each other near the CPU. If you’re adding new RAM without removing any existing modules, find the empty slots available.
Step 4: Remove Existing RAM (If Applicable)
If your upgrade involves replacing older RAM modules, you’ll need to remove the existing ones first.
To do this, locate the levers on either side of the RAM slot. Gently push these levers downward (or outwards, away from the RAM), and the RAM stick will pop up slightly. Once the stick loosens, carefully lift it out by gripping it from both ends.
Avoid touching the gold connectors as oils from your skin can interfere with the connection later.
Repeat the process for each RAM stick you need to remove. Place the removed sticks in an anti-static bag or other safe location in case you want to reuse them later.
Step 5: Install The New RAM
Now that you’ve prepared the slots, it is time to install the new RAM. Take one RAM stick and align the notch in the stick with the corresponding ridge in the slot.
RAM sticks only fit one way, so make sure the notch matches the slot’s divider. Once aligned, insert the stick into the slot and apply even pressure on both sides.
Push down firmly until the levers on each side of the slot click into place. This sound confirms that the RAM has seated securely.
Repeat this process for each RAM stick you are installing. After inserting all the new RAM modules, double-check that each one sits flush and firmly within the slot.
NOTE: Check your motherboard’s manual if you have any doubts about choosing the RAM slots. This is very important if you are planning to use only two slots and your motherboard comes with four.
Step 6: Close The Case And Reconnect
After installing all the RAM sticks, you can now close the PC case. Reattach the side panel and secure it by tightening the screws. After securing the panel, reconnect all cables and peripherals. Make sure everything is plugged in before powering on the system.
Step 7: Boot And Verify
Once you reconnect everything, power on the PC and check if the new RAM works correctly. During the boot process, press the appropriate BIOS key (often “Del” or “F2”) to enter the BIOS setup. In the BIOS, locate the memory section to verify that the system recognizes the new amount of RAM. You can also check the RAM after boot-up using Windows Task Manager
If the system fails to recognize the new RAM, double-check that the sticks are properly seated in the slots. You may need to reseat them by removing and reinserting the modules.
How To Upgrade RAM In A Laptop?
The process of upgrading RAM in a laptop is similar to what we did in a desktop PC. Although laptops from different manufacturers differ in design, most follow similar steps when it comes to accessing and replacing RAM.
Step 1: Power Down And Disconnect The Battery
Before accessing the internal components, shut down the laptop properly. After this, unplug the charger from the laptop and remove the battery, if it is detachable.
Modern laptops usually come with a non-removable battery. If this is the case with your laptop, you may need to disconnect the battery cable (which is possible only after you remove the bottom cover).
You can also unplug any connected peripherals (usually devices connected via USB ports).
Step 2: Remove The Base Enclosure (Bottom Cover)
Next, turn the laptop over to expose the bottom side. Some laptops have an easy-access panel specifically designed to access the RAM slots. This panel is often held with one or two screws. If this is the case, use a small screwdriver to remove the screws and you are ready for the upgrade.
For most laptops though, you need to remove the entire bottom cover to access the RAM slots. This process involves unscrewing multiple screws across the bottom. You can find more information about this process in the laptop’s manual
If you are unsure, consult online guides (videos are a much better option) for specific models. In any case, keep your work clean and organized so that you won’t lose any parts or screws.
To be extra safe, you can disconnect the battery cable once you remove the case cover. Again, videos from the manufacturer or other online guides are your best bet for model-specific instructions on how to disconnect the battery.
Step 3: Remove Existing RAM
If the laptop already has RAM installed and you plan to replace it, you have to first remove the old modules. Most RAM sticks in laptops are held in place by small metal clips on either side of the slot.
To remove the RAM, gently spread these clips apart. This will release the spring tension and the RAM stick will lift at an angle and pop up slightly. You can grab the RAM sticks by the edges and pull them out without applying significant force.
Step 4: Install The New RAM
The process of installing the new RAM stick is similar but in reverse. Begin by aligning the new RAM module with the slot at the same angle as the old one was positioned (after we released the side clips).
Laptops typically use SODIMM sticks, which are shorter than desktop RAM. The stick will have a notch that must match the key in the slot to fit properly. If the notch doesn’t align, flip the RAM stick to the correct orientation.
Once the RAM is aligned, insert it into the slot at the same angle and apply gentle pressure until you don’t see the gold contacts. Push the RAM down until the clips on either side snap into place and secure the module.
You will hear a noticeable click as an indication that the RAM has seated correctly. Double-check that the RAM sits evenly and snugly within the slot.
Step 5: Close The Laptop
After installing the new RAM, you can place back the access panel or bottom cover. Use the screws you set aside to reattach the panel/cover securely.
Step 6: Boot And Check New RAM
With the new RAM installed and the laptop reassembled, you can now power on the device. The first thing to check is whether the system recognizes the new RAM.
To do this, you can use the BIOS, Task Manager (similar to what we did earlier), or the system properties on Windows (right-click on “This PC” and select “Properties” to see the installed RAM).
FAQs:
Mixing different types of RAM sticks (DDR3 and DDR4) is not possible. However, mixing different sizes of RAM (of the same type) such as combining 8GB and 16GB sticks can work provided they match in terms of speed (MHz) and voltage.
The need to remove old RAM before installing new modules depends on your system’s configuration and the number of available RAM slots. If all the RAM slots are already occupied, you must remove the old RAM. In case there are empty RAM slots, you can install additional RAM without removing the old modules
Yes, upgrading just your RAM is one of the simplest and cost-effective ways to improve your system’s performance. If your system has been running slower, a RAM upgrade will result in a significant performance boost. You don’t need to upgrade other components, such as the processor or storage, if your only goal is to increase memory.
Upgrading RAM does not require removing the motherboard in most desktop PCs or laptops. The RAM slots are generally easily accessible on the motherboard itself. In desktop PCs, opening the side panel provides direct access to the RAM slots. In laptops, accessing the RAM usually involves removing a bottom panel, but the motherboard remains intact during the process.
You can determine if your RAM is upgradeable by checking your system’s specifications. Depending on your motherboard model or laptop brand and model number, you will need to know the maximum supported RAM capacity, the number of available slots, and the type of RAM compatible with your system.
