How to Increase Laptop Memory: Install a New RAM Module

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A step-by-step guide to upgrading the RAM on your laptop
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Upgrading your laptop's memory is a great way to boost its performance. You can easily upgrade your laptop's memory by upgrading or adding more RAM modules. For Mac users, check out our guide on upgrading RAM on a Macbook Pro . If you don't want to (or can't) install more RAM, we also go over a few ways to free up memory on your laptop. This wikiHow article teaches you how to increase your laptop's memory with expert tips from desktop support and network engineer Spike Baron.

Quick Steps

  1. Research and purchase the correct RAM modules for your laptop model.
  2. Power off and unplug your laptop.
  3. Open the memory compartment or motherboard access.
  4. Remove the old RAM module.
  5. Insert the new RAM module at a 45-degree angle.
  6. Press it down so it snaps in place.
  7. Close the memory compartment or motherboard access.
Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Freeing Up Memory

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  1. Before installing new memory (or RAM) on your computer, you may want to try freeing up some RAM so that you can make the most of what you already have. Start by restarting your computer. Restarting your computer clears out your RAM.
  2. Running too many programs at once can consume a lot of memory. Shut down any background tasks you are not using. Use one of the following steps to close background tasks:
    • Windows: Press Ctrl + Alt + Del and click Task Manager . Check which background tasks are using the most memory in the "Memory" column. Select any tasks running in the background that you're not using and click End Task at the top of the screen.
    • Mac: Click the magnifying glass icon in the upper-right corner and type "Activity Monitor." Open the Activity Monitor app. Check which programs are using the most memory. Select any program you are not using and click the button with the "x" icon in the upper-left corner. Then click Quit or Force Quit . [1]
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  3. If you have too many programs launching when your computer starts up, this can eat up a ton of memory right from the start. Reduce the number of startup programs to keep your computer running more smoothly. Use one of the following steps to do so:
    • Windows: Click the Windows Start button and click the Settings menu. Click Apps followed by Startup . Click the toggle switch next to any apps you don't want starting up with your computer.
    • Mac: Click the Apple icon followed by System Settings . Click General followed by Login Items & Extensions . Click the minus ( - ) icon next to any programs you don't want to start up with your Mac. [2]
  4. Making sure your computer and all your applications are up-to-date helps ensure they are running smoothly and efficiently. Be sure to update all your applications regularly. Use one of the following steps to update your computer:
    • Windows: Click the Windows Start menu and type "Windows Update" Click Windows Update Settings . Click Download & install all if an update is available.
    • Mac: Click the Apple icon followed by System Settings . Click the General in the menu bar to the left. Click Software Update . Click Update Now if an update is available.
  5. Currently, Google Chrome is the most popular web browser. However, it's been known to use a lot of RAM. Apple's Safari also uses a lot of RAM. You may be able to reduce the amount of RAM your web browser uses by switching to a different web browser. Windows built-in Microsoft Edge typically uses less memory than Google Chrome. Opera and Brave browsers also typically use less memory than Google Chrome. Both are available on Windows and Mac. [3]
  6. Your cache holds temporary information that makes programs and your web browser run faster. However, it can eat up a lot of memory over time. Clear your cache to reduce the amount of memory on your computer. Use one of the following steps to clear your cache: [4]
    • Windows: Click the Windows Start menu and type "Disk Cleanup." Open Disk Cleanup . Ensure "Temporary Internet Files" and "Temporary Files" are selected. Click Clean up system files and click Ok . Click Delete files .
    • Open Finder and click Go . Hold the Option key and click Library . Open the Cache folder. Press Command + A to select everything. Then press Delete .
  7. Viruses and malware can not only compromise your privacy and security, they can also use a lot or RAM. Periodically run a virus scan to make sure your computer is free of malware and viruses. Use one of the following steps to do so:
    • Windows: Click the Windows Start menu and type "Windows Security". Click Window Security and click Virus & threat protection . Click Quick Scan or Scan Now . You can also use third-party applications, like Malwarebytes, to scan for malware.
    • Mac: Macs don't have built-in antivirus protection. Instead, Macs use a system of trusted software developers to ensure that malware isn't downloaded in the first place. However, if you suspect your Mac may have malware or viruses, you can use a third-party tool, such as Malwarebytes, to scan for viruses and malware.
  8. Using visual effects on your computer may be more appealing to the eyes, but they can use a lot of memory. Disable visual effects to reduce the amount of memory your computer uses. Use one of the following steps to turn off visual effects on your computer:
    • Windows: Click the Windows Start menu and click Settings . Click Accessibility and then click Visual Effects . Turn of Transparency effects and Animation effects .
    • Mac: Click the Apple icon followed by System Settings . Click Accessibility followed by Display . Turn on Reduce motion .
  9. There are a variety of applications for Windows and Mac that can clear your memory. On Windows, you can download Wise Memory Optimizer for free from the Microsoft Store. Nektomy Memory Cleaner is a free tool you can use to clear your memory on Mac.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

Research Your Laptop

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  1. You can find out how much RAM you have in Windows following these steps:
    • Open Settings and go to the System tab. Toggle off Transparency effects and Animation effects .
    • Click About to open your laptop’s information page.
    • Look at Installed RAM under Device specifications .
    • If you need more storage space, look into installing an SSD in your laptop .
  2. According to Baron, different laptops and motherboards have a limit to how much RAM you can install. Also, different laptop brands and models use different RAM modules. You will need to get the correct RAM module that is compatible with your laptop. Additionally, your laptop has a limited number of RAM slots. [5]
    • Note: Some laptops have only soldered-on memory. This means the RAM components have been soldered to the logic board in the laptop. These can’t be replaced without micro-soldering, an advanced soldering technique.
    • Your laptop’s manual will likely say what type and how much RAM you can install. If not, you can try calling the manufacturer's customer support line to ask about RAM specifications.
    • Baron explains that you can find compatible memory by going to the manufacturer's official website and searching for your laptop model on their support or store page. From there, the site might recommend compatible RAM upgrade packages for purchase.
  3. Now that you have all the information you need, you can select and buy RAM. Buying directly from the manufacturer is a great way to get compatible hardware. You can also check out online retailers and in-person electronics stores. Make sure you purchase the correct RAM modules for your laptop.
    EXPERT TIP

    Spike Baron

    Network Engineer & Desktop Support
    Spike Baron is a Network Engineer & Desktop Support Expert based in Los Angeles, California. He is the owner of Spike’s Computer Repair. With over 25 years of working experience in the tech industry, Spike specializes in PC and Mac computer repair, used computer sales, virus removal, data recovery, and hardware and software upgrades. He has worked as an IT Systems expert for numerous companies, including Huntington Health, Blackbox, Honda, and Manufacturers Bank. In his spare time, Spike also builds and restores computers. He has his CompTIA A+ certification for computer service technicians and is a Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert.
    Spike Baron
    Network Engineer & Desktop Support

    RAM is like money—you can never have too much. However, it can be expensive. 8 gigabytes is a normal amount of RAM for the average user. Someone who does AutoCAD, 3D modeling, or gaming may want to upgrade to 16 to 32 gigabytes.

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Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

Install the RAM

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  1. ESD (electrostatic discharge) can damage your laptop's electronic components. This occurs when you accidentally transfer static electricity to the sensitive components inside your computer. [6]
    • Avoid environmental factors that might generate static electricity, like carpets and rugs.
    • Keep all electrical components in their ESD-safe packaging until you’re ready to install them.
    • You can wear an ESD grounding wristband to prevent discharge during the installation process.
  2. Make sure your laptop is completely powered off. Removing and installing RAM while the computer is on may damage it. [7]
    • If your laptop has an external, removable battery, remove it after turning off your computer.
    • Warning: If your laptop has an internal battery, take care not to damage it during the installation process. A damaged battery may catch fire or release toxic fumes.
  3. Hold down the physical power button on your laptop for 5 seconds. This will discharge any leftover electricity.
    • You can skip this step if your battery can’t be removed.
  4. It's usually on the bottom of your laptop. Check your laptop's documentation for the compartment that holds your RAM modules. On some laptops, there is a small compartment that houses the memory modules. On other laptops, you will need to remove the bottom panel completely to access the motherboard.
    • Refer to your laptop’s manual for information on safely removing the panel and working inside your computer.
    • If you’re removing the bottom panel, you could clean the inside with compressed air while it’s open.
  5. Pull any side clips away from the module. The module will likely pop up to a 45-degree angle. Then, remove it from the laptop by pulling it straight away from its slot. When replacing RAM modules, you’ll need to unclip the current modules by pulling the spring or wedge-style clips on both edges of the module. [8]
    • Handle memory modules by their short-side edges. Don’t touch the surface-mounted components or the gold pins on the module.
  6. Align the notches on the module with the ridges in the slot. Make sure you’re inserting the gold-pins edge of the module into the slot. [9]
  7. This will lock the RAM module into the correct position.
  8. Make sure it is securely screwed back in place.
  9. If you removed an external battery, reinstall it now.
  10. Your computer will automatically recognize and utilize the new memory installed.
  11. To do so, navigate to Settings > System > Device specifications. Your computer should list the new amount of RAM you have installed. [10]
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    Can I use a different brand and speed?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can but using the same brand and same speed might increase the performance.
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  • Question
    How can I improve laptop performance with Windows 10?
    Community Answer
    Open an elevated Command prompt window and type in chkdsk/f. Type 'y', then restart your PC. The system will then check your hard disk for any errors. This will take a while, so do it when you do not need to work on your PC.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    How can I increase the RAM in my laptop?
    Community Answer
    Go online or to a computer shop and buy more sticks of RAM. You can probably pay a computer shop to put in the RAM for you, because I wouldn't be able to instruct you without knowing exactly what kind of laptop you have.
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      Tips

      • According to Baron, your RAM may be faulty if your computer doesn't boot up or boots with an error message. If you get frequent blue-screen-of-death errors, that is also a sign that your RAM may be going faulty.
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      • Always use memory slots/banks with equal-sized RAM modules in each slot/bank.
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      • If you are installing additional RAM modules to existing ones, be sure the style and type match. Brand matching is important but not imperative.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://support.apple.com/guide/activity-monitor/quit-a-process-actmntr1002/mac
      2. ↑ https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/remove-login-items-resolve-startup-problems-mh21210/mac
      3. ↑ https://clario.co/blog/which-browser-uses-the-least-ram/
      4. ↑ https://www.atera.com/blog/how-to-decrease-ram-usage/
      5. ↑ https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/how-to-install-memory-ram-in-your-pc/
      6. ↑ https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/how-to-install-memory-ram-in-your-pc/
      7. ↑ https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-add-ram-to-a-laptop/
      8. ↑ https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-upgrade-the-ram-on-your-laptop/#dt-heading-how-to-upgrade-your-laptops-ram
      9. ↑ https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-add-ram-to-a-laptop/
      1. ↑ https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/how-to-upgrade-the-ram-on-your-laptop/#dt-heading-how-to-upgrade-your-laptops-ram

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