Boost Your Laptop’s Performance: How to Upgrade RAM Easily

Want to improve the efficiency of your laptop? Upgrade RAM in laptop and experience the difference yourself! Our computers multitask to allow us to check our email, browse the internet, stream movies, and more, much as we do daily when juggling a long list of things we need to get done. RAM is a crucial component that functions as your computer’s short-term memory. 

Your computer or laptop will  perform poorly if it lacks the necessary capabilities or capacity. So, you are required to upgrade RAM in the laptop in this case. So, in this blog, we’ll break down the process of upgrading RAM in a laptop and cover everything you need to know about RAM from A to Z.

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What is RAM?

Random-access memory (RAM) is commonly used in computers and laptops. It is also sometimes referred to as PC memory or just memory. Here are some common features of RAM:-

• RAM is essentially your laptop or computer’s short-term memory. It is the location of the data your computer processor needs to access files and operate software. 
• RAM is also known as a memory module, and it is usually found inside your computer as a rectangular flat circuit board with memory chips attached. 
• Usually, computers have two or more RAM modules, with the option to add more if necessary. These RAM modules are essential parts that cooperate with your computer’s central processing unit (CPU) and must operate at peak efficiency if you want a positive experience.

What Is the Role of RAM in the Laptop?

If a computer has more RAM, it can normally manage more data at any given time. As a result, your programs will function more smoothly, and multitasking will be more effective. If you ask your computer to execute a task, such as opening a photo to edit, and there isn’t enough available RAM, it will start shuffling data around to open the file. 

Here is why RAM is beneficial for your system to function efficiently:-

• RAM Is Essential for Immediate Data Storage

 RAM is essential for immediate data storage because it provides high-speed access to actively used data, enabling smooth multitasking and faster application performance. It temporarily holds information the system needs, reducing reliance on slower storage drives and enhancing overall efficiency.

• RAM Aids in Speedy Performance: 

RAM reduces reliance on slower storage devices, enabling faster application loading, seamless multitasking, and improved system responsiveness. More RAM allows smoother performance, especially for high-demand gaming, video editing, and programming tasks.

• Faster Access to Previously-Used Programs with RAM

It takes time to load when you initially switch on your computer and run an application, such as PowerPoint or Spotify. However, if you close a program and resume it, the software opens almost instantly (especially if your computer is optimised for performance). This is because the data required to load the software is stored in substantially faster RAM than on the hard disc.

• Supporting Software Efficiency

Demanding applications like video editing, gaming, and programming require sufficient RAM for smooth operation. These tasks may experience lag, slow rendering, or crashes without enough RAM. More RAM ensures faster processing, better responsiveness, and seamless user experience.

How Much RAM Do You Need? 

An easy way to check is by comparing your laptop’s current RAM with the memory requirements of the apps you use most.

• Using your laptop and the nature of your work, determine how much RAM would be sufficient for you. 
• You can get by with as little as 4 GB for basic tasks like streaming movies and checking emails. 12GB+ RAM is ideal for gaming or image editing.
• A minimum of 32 GB of RAM is required for a seamless experience. This will allow you to play the newest games with a decent frames-per-second (FPS) rate and operate robust applications like Photoshop. 
• 64GB+ RAM is recommended for power users who want top-tier performance in demanding games and software.

Signs You Need to Upgrade RAM in Laptop

In addition to checking your RAM usage, here are some signs that your current RAM may be struggling to handle your tasks:

• If your computer frequently uses more than 80% of its RAM. Large files, in particular, open very slowly.
• Your apps regularly stop, or your computer crashes frequently.
• Websites and apps load quite slowly.
• Performance significantly declines when you open many apps.
• When attempting to install an application, you are notified that your computer does not satisfy the minimum requirements.

If you frequently encounter these issues, it can indicate that you need to upgrade RAM in laptop.

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Steps to Follow When Upgrading RAM on Your Laptop

Upgrading RAM is one of the best methods to improve laptop speed, particularly multitasking. The amount of RAM you need depends on your usage—8GB is sufficient for basic tasks, while 16GB or more is ideal for demanding applications.

How to add RAM to a laptop may seem easy, but here are some steps to follow for a smooth process:-

• Check your Laptop’s Compatibility

The number of RAM slots, the configuration, the specific memory type, and the storage size are a few determinants of compatibility. Each laptop has unique features and components; you need to check all four determinants before you upgrade the RAM in your laptop.  

• Proceed with Caution 

Before touching or handling internal components, wear an ESD wrist strap or avoid touching any unpainted metal surfaces on the computer’s frame to prevent static harm to yourself or to the system’s components during installation. Avoid direct contact with the RAM’s gold connectors.

• Keep Supplies Handy 

Gather all the supplies on a static-free surface. Hard floors should be placed over carpeted areas to decrease static electricity. To avoid the last minute rush, keep all the supplies, such as a laptop/computer, Compatible laptop memory, a Screwdriver (optional), and an Owner’s manual, handy. 

• Shut Down the Laptop

Now, shut down your laptop; since your data, documents, and files are stored on your storage drive, installing additional RAM won’t impact them.

• Unplug from All Power Sources 

Take out the laptop’s battery and unplug the power cord. For five seconds, press and hold the power button. Any remaining electricity in the system is released in this way. To ensure all remaining power is released, you should still complete this step even if your battery cannot be removed.

• Open the Back Panel 

Look for instructions in the owner’s manual for opening the back panel of your laptop/ computer. Start by taking pictures to see the original placements of cables and screws so that you can easily assemble them after installing the RAM. 

• Install the New RAM 

Pull the side clips away to remove the RAM and lift the module out. Align the new module with the slot’s notches, then press down firmly with even pressure until it clicks into place.

• Close the Back Panel 

Reinstall the battery and close the laptop case. Turn on your newly upgraded laptop and enjoy using more memory-intensive applications! 

Conclusion 

If your computer does not have enough RAM, it uses a slower hard drive (temporary storage) to transfer the data, causing everything to slow down even further. Adding more RAM to a laptop improves performance, making tasks like gaming or intensive video editing significantly smoother. However, specific types of RAM may be necessary, so it’s important to check your laptop’s specifications before upgrading. Many users find themselves uncertain about how to upgrade RAM in laptop. Fortunately, upgrading RAM becomes straightforward with the steps outlined in the blog.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do I know if my laptop needs more RAM?

If your laptop runs slowly, crashes frequently, or struggles with multitasking, likely it needs a RAM upgrade.

Is upgrading RAM on a laptop difficult?

No, upgrading RAM is simple if your laptop has accessible RAM slots. Just follow proper precautions to avoid damage.

Do I need to reinstall Windows after upgrading RAM?

No, upgrading RAM does not affect your operating system or stored data.

How do I check how much RAM my laptop has?

You can check your RAM using Task Manager (Windows) or About This Mac (Mac) under system information.

Can You Upgrade RAM in a MacBook, or Is It Fixed?

RAM upgrades in MacBooks depend on the model. Older MacBook Pros (pre-2012) allow upgrades, but newer models have soldered RAM, making upgrades impossible.

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