UPGRADE!!! Which is the the correct RAM for my laptop?

walking18

Estimable
Aug 20, 2015
1
0
4,510
I want to upgrade my laptop (Lenovo G50, core i7, 64-bit) to handle photoshop and video editing. I will swap out the HD for SSD and install more RAM - what's the max my comp may handle?

How may I determine RAM for my computer, quantity and correct type, because I have read there are details one should be mindful of (e.g. high or low voltage).

I was initially told to figure out which motherboard I have. How do I do that without tearing my laptop apart lol?

I would appreciate your advise.
 

neieus

Distinguished
Dec 29, 2011
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18,590
OR! You could just go to Crucials website and use their memory compatibility finder. It will find the ram that is compatible for you because when it comes to laptops the ram sometimes needs to be specific.

https://www.crucial.com/
 

blasc

Estimable
Nov 21, 2014
19
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4,560
The thing is, you need to know the speed and CAS latency of your current memory. Even if you buy a stick with a higher speed clock or lower CAS, both RAMs will run at the lower speed between the two.

Example:
-you have a DDR3-1600MHz, CAS=9
-you buy a DDR3-1800MHz, CAS=10
-Both wil work at 1600MHz, CAS 10. So, the worst of the two.

This is because they will work in dual channel, and the memories need to be "in sync".

This kind of memory will work for you:
www.amazon.co.uk/HyperX-Impact-SODIMM-Notebook-Memory/dp/B00KQCOTCM/

just take in mind the SPEED and the CAS!! no need to spend extra money on a high end stick, if you dont use its capabilities.

You can get this info through CPU-Z or HWInfo, both freeware.
 

blasc

Estimable
Nov 21, 2014
19
0
4,560
crucial memory finder gives several options of DDR3 SoDIMM memories, that go from 1333MHz CAS=12 to 1800MHz CAS=10.

I just came from there. besides, they ask for the exact laptop model. Lenovo G50-??.

I tested all models, all models had the same answers.

Also, using HWInfo or CPU-Z = guess work? I wouldn't consider software that gives precise details about your hardware, simply "guess work"....
 

blasc

Estimable
Nov 21, 2014
19
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4,560
lol are you guys serious? even if not for anything else, for the OP to learn about what he is doing.

Instead of giving him tools for him to work out what he wants, and geting some knowledge on the way, you are telling him to rely on someone else's judgement (even if it is from crucial. It could even be from the pope or god himself.) and almost don't give a crap about his equipment.

"meh this is easier. someone will do the work for me, nice".
 

McHenryB

Estimable
Jan 31, 2015
140
1
4,660
If I want my car serviced I don't go to evening classes to learn motor mechanics, buy a load of tools, and hire a garage with a ramp. I take it to the dealer and ask people who know what they are doing to service it for me.

Same with RAM for a computer. Just go to a specialist who will tell you exactly what you need and will sell you memory guaranteed to work with that computer. I've seen far too many posts from people asking why the RAM they have bought won't work.