Will 8GB instead of 4GB significantly improve my XPS laptop?

[Adrian Marin]

Hi,

I currently have a Dell XPS laptop bought in October 2011.
It's current configuration is:
- Intel i5 2.40GHz
- 4GB Ram (2+2)
- GeForce GT 540M
- Windows 7 64

I am thinking of doubling my RAM to 8GB (4+4).
I'm using the laptop for graphic stuff, and browsing.
My question is:

Will it make a major difference to buy the 8 GB of RAM?

Thanks

 

[tonyzet]

4gb is more than enough for everyday use but an aditional boost is always welcomed . First of all, you have to ask the seller if your model (aka laptop motherboard) can handle more ram

 

[Adrian Marin]

4gb is more than enough for everyday use but an aditional boost is always welcomed . First of all, you have to ask the seller if your model (aka laptop motherboard) can handle more ram

It does support maximum 8GB.

 

[tonyzet]

Allright, now it would be ideal to know the exact model of your current ram kit, because it possible that your motherboard support dual channel which will perform way better than a simple
4gb of X ram stick + 4gb of Y ram stick

 

[Marven87]

Refer this.
http/www.crucial.com/store/listmodel.aspx?pl=XPS&mfgr=Dell

 

[Adrian Marin]

Allright, now it would be ideal to know the exact model of your current ram kit, because it possible that your motherboard support dual channel which will perform way better than a simple
4gb of X ram stick + 4gb of Y ram stick

It definitely supports dual channel. Now I have 2 RAMs: Nanya, 2GB, 1Rx8, PC3-10600S-9-10-B2, 1333

 

[tonyzet]

So, go for a 2x4GB laptop ram kit (BE CAREFUL: the desktop ram will probably not work/fit at your laptop). Check out if the frequency of the ram kit is compatible with your laptop

 

[Adrian Marin]

So, go for a 2x4GB laptop ram kit (BE CAREFUL: the desktop ram will probably not work/fit at your laptop). Check out if the frequency of the ram kit is compatible with your laptop

Will the performance of my laptop improve if I make the upgrade?
I don't want to spend £60 without any significant improvement.

 

[tonyzet]

Only if you use many programs the same time, play games or use other demanding programs...

 

[Adrian Marin]

I use graphic programs and Firefox. Sometimes, when using a lot I notice the laptop slowing down: files are taking longer to open, windows will drag slower, with lags, or they'll stick to the cursor.

 

[tonyzet]

Then propably an update will help you. Before buying anything, use optimazation programs like CCleaner, SystemCare, etc, and check if you see any noticable perfomance boost...

 

[Adrian Marin]

Thanks.