Laptop RAM and SSD upgrade guide: check this before you buy

Updated 20 Oct 2026 · How we pick

Many laptop upgrades go wrong because the wrong part was ordered. This checklist covers what to confirm first.

The guide

  1. Is the RAM soldered? Many thin laptops have RAM soldered to the board. Check the service manual or open the base. If there's no SODIMM slot, RAM is not upgradeable.
  2. DDR4 or DDR5 SODIMM, and what speed? These are physically incompatible. Match what's fitted, and buy as a matched pair if both slots are free.
  3. SSD form factor: M.2 2280, 2242 or 2230. Some laptops also need a specific keying or have a SATA-only M.2 slot.
  4. BitLocker: back up your recovery key before swapping the boot drive.
  5. Static and screws: unplug the charger and disconnect the internal battery connector if the manual says to.

Reliability and upgrade notes: 'laptop won't power on after an upgrade' is usually a half-seated SODIMM or a missed battery reconnection, not a dead board.

Not tested hands-on. Our recommendations are based on manufacturer specifications, retailer listings and prices read directly from retailer pages. Our method