You’ve recognized that it’s time to upgrade the RAM in your desktop or laptop. But, can you do this on your own at home? And how?
Thankfully, upgrading your RAM may be easier than you think. Whether you’ve got a laptop or a desktop, below, we’ve broken down the five easy steps on how to upgrade RAM right at home.
But first, let’s get started with the basics.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the Basics of RAM Upgrades: Upgrading RAM improves multitasking, system responsiveness, and gaming performance.
- Choosing the Right Type of RAM: DDR3 is ideal for older systems, while DDR4 and DDR5 are better for modern systems
- Upgrading RAM in a Desktop or Laptop: Follow simple steps to replace old RAM and boost system performance quickly and easily.
- Verifying RAM Upgrade: Check your system’s BIOS or use memory diagnostics tools to ensure your upgrade is correctly recognized.
- Lexar RAM Solutions: Lexar offers reliable, high-performance RAM options for all types of users, making upgrading both easy and effective.
Understanding the Basics of RAM Upgrades
It’s important to stay on top of RAM upgrades. After all, upgrading your RAM can be one of the most effective ways to improve your computer’s overall performance.
Plus, with more memory, your system can run multiple programs simultaneously without compromising speed. This is especially useful if you tend to keep many browser tabs open, run video editing software, or switch between resource-heavy applications frequently.
More RAM also enhances your gaming experience by reducing lag, improving load times, and boosting frame rates, particularly for modern, graphics-intensive games.
Whether you’re a gamer, a professional, or just a casual computer user, upgrading your RAM is a simple and cost-effective way to breathe new life into your computer. And you can do it yourself quite easily.
Selecting the Right RAM for Your System
Before you begin the process of upgrading your system’s RAM, you need to make sure you have the best option for your desktop or laptop.
The right RAM for you will depend on various factors, including how you use your computer, which programs you run, and more. Below, we’ve created a table for you to better understand which RAM options may be ideal for you.
| Type of RAM | Key Features | Who Would Benefit Most |
| DDR3 | – Older standard, generally up to 2133 MHz speeds- Higher latency compared to DDR4/DDR5- Lower capacity per module (up to 8GB) | – Users with older desktops or laptops- Budget-conscious users upgrading older systems- Basic multitasking and light gaming |
| DDR4 | – Current standard, speeds between 2133 MHz to 4800 MHz- Lower voltage than DDR3 (1.2V)- Larger capacities (up to 32GB per module) | – Professionals needing smooth multitasking- Anyone looking for a balance of performance and affordability |
| DDR5 | – Latest standard, speeds starting at 4800 MHz and above- Most power-efficient (1.1V)- Higher capacities (up to 64GB per module) | – Power users, high-end gaming, and professionals- Users working with 3D rendering, virtual machines, or video editing- Future-proofing for the latest demanding applications- Gamers and content creators |
Of course, if you have further questions about our RAM systems, you can check out our blogs: DDR3 vs. DDR4: What’s the Difference? and How Much RAM Do I Need?
How to Upgrade RAM in a Desktop in 5 Steps
Now that you know what kind of memory your computer needs, let’s walk you through how to upgrade RAM in your desktop – and you can do this in just five easy steps.
Step 1: Power Off and Unplug Your Computer
Start the upgrade process by turning off your computer and unplugging it from any and all power sources to avoid electrical issues.
Step 2: Open the Case and Locate the RAM Slots
Next, you’ll need to carefully remove the side panel of your desktop case. Inside, you’ll be able to locate the RAM slots on your motherboard, typically near the CPU.
Step 3: Remove Existing RAM (if necessary)
If you’re replacing old RAM, gently push the tabs on either side of the RAM module to release it from the slot and carefully pull it out.
Step 4: Install the New RAM
Next, you’ll align the new RAM with the slot, ensuring the notch matches up. Firmly press down until the tabs click into place on both sides.
Step 5: Close the Case and Power On Your Computer
Last but certainly not least, you’ll want to secure the case back into place, reconnect the power cord, and turn on your computer. Here, you can double-check that the system recognizes the new RAM in the settings.
And you’ve done it! That’s how to upgrade RAM in your desktop quickly and easily.
How to Upgrade RAM in a Laptop in 5 Steps
We’ve talked about upgrading RAM in desktops, but what laptops? Thankfully, the process is just as easy – and looks pretty similar, too.
Let’s talk about how to upgrade RAM in your laptop.
Step 1: Power Off Your Laptop and Disconnect All Cables
Once again, make sure you’re starting by powering off your laptop completely and disconnecting any cables that might be plugged in. You can also remove the battery if it’s removable to avoid power surges.
Step 2: Access the RAM Compartment
Next, flip the laptop over and remove the screws holding the back panel or specific RAM compartment cover. Make sure to carefully lift or slide off the cover – as this will reveal the RAM slots!
Step 3: Remove Old RAM (if applicable)
If you’re removing old RAM or an old RAM model, you need to gently push the clips on either side of the RAM module to release it. Then, slide it out at a slight angle.
Step 4: Install the New RAM
After this, you will insert the new RAM module at a 30-degree angle into the slot, then press it down until the clips lock it securely in place.
Step 5: Close Your Laptop and Power It On
Finally, replace the back panel or RAM compartment cover, secure the screws, and reinsert the battery (if you removed it). Then, power on the laptop.
Make sure to check the system settings to verify that your computer recognizes the new RAM upgrade.
And there you have it! Whether you’re working with a high-powered laptop or an everyday desktop, upgrading the RAM in your computer will be one of the best – and easiest – choices you make.
Verifying Your RAM Upgrade
As we mentioned at the end of both guides, you need to verify that your computer recognizes your RAM upgrade. But, how do you go about doing that? We’ll tell you.
First, as always, start by powering on your computer and entering the system’s BIOS or UEFI settings. For most computers, this can be done by pressing a specific key during startup. Within the BIOS, you can check the system information or memory settings to see if the new RAM is recognized and showing the correct capacity.
If your system doesn’t have BIOS access or you prefer using the operating system, you can also check from within your OS.
In addition to checking the installed memory, it’s a good idea to run some basic stress tests or memory diagnostics to confirm that the new RAM is functioning correctly.
Windows offers a built-in tool called “Windows Memory Diagnostic” that you can use to test your RAM for errors. For more advanced users, other third-party programs provide in-depth testing options to ensure there are no issues with the new modules.
Macs offer a built-in tool called Apple Diagnostics (accessible by holding D during startup) to test your RAM for errors. For advanced users, third-party tools like MemTest86 provide deeper diagnostic options to ensure your new modules are functioning perfectly.
When you follow these steps, you can confidently move forward with your computer knowing your RAM upgrade has been successful. And, trust us, you’ll likely notice a difference in your computer right away.
Exploring Lexar’s High-Performance RAM Options
At the end of the day, a successful RAM upgrade not only enhances your system’s speed and efficiency but also extends its lifespan, making it better equipped to handle future demands. And with our five-step guide, upgrading has never been so simple.
If you’re looking for high-quality RAM to upgrade your system, explore Lexar’s wide range of reliable and performance-driven memory options. Lexar’s RAM solutions are designed to meet the needs of all users, from casual web browsers to power users. Upgrade your computer experience today.
