How to choose RAM for a laptop: what is affected by the amount of RAM

Does the system freeze if 10 or more tabs are open in the browser? It is impossible to work in Photoshop, since the computer clearly can not cope with the load from the program? Instead of enjoying the long-awaited cool game, you can only watch on the screen a “stuck” slideshow from the snippets of the video at startup? And the main question: what is wrong? After all, before the problems with the operation of your device was not observed. Most likely the matter is in RAM.

What affects the amount of RAM

RAM is a random access memory device. This is the internal element of your computer that allows it to be multi-tasking and at the same time quickly cope with all the processes. To explain its purpose and principle of operation, it is enough to note that it is a kind of buffer for storing information used at a particular moment. It is needed so that when performing a specific task, the system does not view all the data contained in long-term memory, but can immediately turn to specific ones.

It turns out that the larger the volume of this buffer itself, the more complex the process can be implemented in minimal time. That is why if you experience situations similar to those listed at the beginning of this article, it’s worth considering replacement of the entire RAM (unless it is soldered into the main board) or the addition of additional to free slots.

Reference! A slot is that place (connector) that is designed to connect new RAM modules.

To make sure that you need to purchase an additional bracket (boards with installed RAM chipsets), we collect information about the computer. For this:

• we launch some program (even a few are better);
• simultaneously press the keys “Ctrl”, “Alt”, “delete” and in the list that opens, select “Task Manager”;
• select the section "Performance".
• We check how much memory is loaded and how the processor works.

If it is involved at 80% and above, then adding RAM will not hurt.

How to choose the optimal size of RAM for a laptop

First you need to decide what the computer will be used for.

If you need it for ordinary surfing on the Internet, for music, movies and performing some simple tasks (for example, working in Microsoft Word), then you are unlikely to need more than 6 GB of RAM. Fans of 8–12 GB will choose to simultaneously launch several programs or leave 100 open tabs in the browser. And the largest option - 16 GB (sometimes even 32 GB) - is used by owners of powerful machines that regularly run time-consuming programs or games with a complex interface and a rich plot.

Important! With a 32-bit OS, you cannot have more than 3 GB of RAM. Therefore, before expanding the memory, you should clarify the bit depth of your system and, possibly, even change it to 64-Bit.

How to find out the maximum amount of RAM laptop

The logical way is to look at the information on the official website of the manufacturer of your laptop.

However, there is a second:

• from the website https://www.aida64.com/downloads download a program that collects computer configuration information;
• after installation run it;
• double click on the “System Board”;

• go to the “Chipset” section and find “Maximum memory capacity” in the list.

Reference! It is believed that 1 GB should be allocated to one logical core of the processor. But to see the exact maximum volume is more reliable.

What kind of RAM to choose for a laptop

Volume is not the only parameter to choose. Pay attention also to the generation, form factor, frequency and timings. We deal in order:

1. The form factor is the standard size of the bar. You need to understand that RAM designed for a desktop computer (DIMM) cannot be put on a laptop, and vice versa. It is worth mentioning that the form factor of modules for installation on a laptop is SO-DIMM.
2. Frequency. Firstly, you should consider only those models of RAM that, according to this criterion, correspond to the processor and motherboard. Secondly, remember, if you install two chipsets with different indicators, then both will work at a lower value.
3. Timings are the so-called delays in work. Therefore, it is logical to choose chips with the lowest timings (but not to the detriment of the frequency).
4. The generation should correspond to the installed RAM on your computer. The fact is that each system is capable of supporting only one specific generation (in the connectors, keys for placing the bar are even respected).

Given all this, you can buy a board that will really improve performance at times.

Generations of RAM

Today, there are three main ones: DDR2, DDR3 and DDR4.

1. The first option is almost out of circulation. Perhaps it can still be found on some very old devices. But now you can not find a single model that would suit DDR2. Such modules were released in 2003, and works with 400-1066 MHz.
2. The second issue is already worthy of attention. Of course, he will not meet in new powerful laptops, but in the past it was widespread. Year of development: 2007. Frequency: 800–2133 MHz. Also adds the ability to provide less power.
3. Finally, the third option is the currently most used plank. It was developed in 2014 and is capable of supporting the work of the latest devices. The frequency is about 1600–3200 MHz.

Now you know everything you need to make the right choice of bracket and increase the performance of your laptop. You can, without a doubt, and competently go to the store for a purchase.