How to Upgrade a Laptop's RAM and SSD

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Upgrading RAM and storage is the best-value way to extend a laptop's life: more memory for heavy multitasking, and a bigger, faster SSD for space and snappier load times. The catch is that many modern laptops solder the memory, and some even solder storage. The first step is finding out what your model allows.

Step 1: find out what's upgradeable

• Check the maker's spec sheet or service manual for your exact model. Look for "SO-DIMM slots," "maximum memory" and "M.2 slots."
• Use a system tool: CPU-Z's Memory and SPD tabs show slot usage. Crucial's system scanner was a popular option too, but with Crucial winding down its consumer business, rely on the laptop maker's documentation.
• Search your model plus "teardown" for photos of the inside.

Storage is usually an M.2 slot. Check its length (2230, 2242 or 2280) and whether it's PCIe NVMe or SATA. Some thin laptops only fit short 2230 drives.

Step 2: choose compatible parts

RAM: match the type (DDR4 or DDR5 SO-DIMM), and ideally the speed, of your laptop's supported spec. For best performance, install a matched pair (two identical sticks) to run in dual channel. If one stick is soldered and one slot is free, match the soldered capacity where possible. 16GB is a good minimum today, and 32GB suits heavy multitasking and creative work.

SSD: match the length and interface. A Gen4 NVMe drive works in Gen3 laptops at Gen3 speed. Low-power, DRAM-less drives are good for battery life. See best Gen4 NVMe SSDs.

Step 3: prepare your data

Back up first. If you're replacing the SSD, either clone your drive to the new SSD using a USB NVMe enclosure before opening the laptop, or plan a clean Windows install from USB media. Make sure you know your BitLocker recovery key (it's in your Microsoft account) in case Windows asks for it after the hardware change.

Step 4: open the laptop and install

1. Shut down fully (not sleep), unplug the charger, and on Windows, disable Fast Startup if you can.
2. Remove the bottom panel. Remove every screw. Some are hidden under rubber feet or labels, and screw lengths often differ, so keep them organized. Pry gently with a plastic tool, starting at a corner or hinge, and work around the clips.
3. Disconnect the battery. Unplug the battery connector from the motherboard. This is the most important safety step.
4. Upgrade RAM. Spread the side clips on the existing stick so it pops up at an angle, then pull it out. Insert the new stick at the same angle, fully into the slot, and press down until the clips click.
5. Upgrade the SSD. Remove the SSD screw (and any shield or thermal pad), lift the drive out at an angle and slide the new one in. Secure the screw and replace any thermal pad or shield.
6. Reconnect the battery, refit the panel and screws, and power on.

The first boot after a RAM change can take longer while the laptop retrains memory. Be patient.

Step 5: verify

• Check that the full RAM shows in Task Manager → Performance → Memory, and that it runs in dual channel (CPU-Z shows this).
• Check that the SSD appears in BIOS and Windows. Initialize a new secondary drive in Disk Management.
• Run a quick memory test and your SSD maker's health tool.

If the laptop won't turn on, recheck that the RAM is fully seated and the battery connector is fully plugged in.

Is the upgrade worth it?

RAM and SSD upgrades are most worthwhile when your laptop's processor is still capable but it runs out of memory or storage. Signs include lots of disk activity when switching apps, browser tabs reloading, and a nearly full drive. A move from 8GB to 16GB, or from 16GB to 32GB for heavy multitasking or creative work, can make a real difference. If the processor itself is struggling, or the battery is worn out, an upgrade may not be enough, and a new laptop or a mini PC for your desk might be the better investment.

Laptop upgrades and battery life

Upgrades rarely hurt battery life much. More RAM draws slightly more power, but it can reduce disk activity. Efficient DRAM-less NVMe drives are designed with laptops in mind. If battery life matters most, choose a drive known for efficiency and avoid Gen5 drives, which run hotter and draw more power. Keep your laptop's BIOS and drivers updated after the upgrade for the best power management.

Gear for a laptop upgrade