Dedicated laptop users know that there are moments when more memory is needed than what the device comes with. While it is possible to upgrade internal RAM this process can be complicated and expensive. External RAM can be a great solution in these cases but is it compatible with laptops? we’ll explore whether or not external RAM can be used with laptops and how to do so.
Can We Use External RAM for Laptop?
External RAM is a type of computer memory that is designed to be used with laptops. It is similar to the internal RAM that comes with laptops but it is not permanently attached to the device. It is possible to use external RAM for the laptop. External RAM is typically added through an expansion card or USB port.
External RAM can be a great way to add more memory to your laptop without having to go through the complicated and expensive process of upgrading the internal RAM. However before you invest in external RAM it is important to make sure that it is compatible with your laptop.
There are a few things to keep in mind when determining whether or not external RAM will work with your laptop. First check the maximum amount of RAM that your laptop can support. This information is typically listed in the product specifications.
For example if your laptop can support up to 8GB of RAM then you should be able to use up to 8GB of external RAM.
How much RAM does your laptop needs?
To figure out how much RAM you need take a look at how you use your laptop. If you only use basic applications then 4GB of RAM may be sufficient. However if you use memory-intensive programs or you have a lot of tabs open at one time then you may need more RAM.
If you’re not sure how much RAM you need 8GB is a good starting point. This will give you plenty of memory for most tasks and it will future-proof your laptop in case you decide to use more memory-intensive applications in the future.
How can you tell if your laptop needs more RAM?
There are a few signs that your laptop might need more memory. If you notice that your laptop is running slowly crashing frequently or if programs are taking longer to load than usual then these could be signs that your laptop could benefit from more RAM.
If you’re not sure whether or not your laptop needs more RAM you can always consult with a computer technician. They will be able to help you determine whether or not external RAM is the right solution for your laptop.
How to add external RAM to your laptop?
If you’ve determined that external RAM is compatible with your laptop and you want to add more memory then there are a few different ways to do so.
Method1: Using expansion card
One of the most common ways to add external RAM to a laptop is by using an expansion card. Expansion cards are designed to fit into the PCI Express slot on your laptop.
Once the expansion card is installed you will be able to add external RAM to your laptop by plugging it into the card.
Most laptops come with at least one PCI Express slot but some newer models might have more than one. If you’re not sure how many PCI Express slots your laptop has consult the product documentation or the manufacturer’s website.
Method2: Using a USB port
Another way to add external RAM to your laptop is by using a USB port. There are a few different types of USB ports but the most common is the USB 3.0 port.
To add external RAM to your laptop using a USB port you will need to purchase a USB memory stick. These devices are typically pre-loaded with external RAM.
Once you have a USB memory stick simply plug it into an available USB port on your laptop.
Method3: Using a memory card
If your laptop has a memory card slot then you can also use this method to add external RAM. Memory cards are typically used for storing data but they can also be used for adding external RAM.
To add external RAM to your laptop using a memory card you will need to purchase a memory card that is designed for this purpose.
Once you have a memory card simply insert it into the memory card slot on your laptop.
How to use external RAM with your laptop?
Once you’ve added external RAM to your laptop you will need to configure it to use it. The process for configuring external RAM will vary depending on the operating system that you’re using.
For Windows
1. If you’re using Windows you will need to open the Control Panel and navigate to the “System” section.
2. Once you’re in the System section click on the “Advanced” tab. Under the “Performance” section click on the “Settings” button.
3. In the Performance Settings window click on the “Advanced” tab. Under the “Virtual Memory” section click on the “Change” button.
4. In the Virtual Memory window you will need to uncheck the “Automatically manage paging file size for all drives” checkbox.
5. Once this checkbox is unchecked you will be able to manually configure the amount of external RAM that you want to use.
For macOS
1. If you’re using macOS you will need to open the “System Preferences” application.
2. Once the System Preferences application is open click on the “Memory” icon.
3. In the Memory window you will see a list of all the different types of memory that are installed on your laptop. Find the section labeled “External.” Under the External section you will be able to configure the amount of RAM that you want to use.
4. Once you’ve configured the external RAM restart your laptop for the changes to take effect. 5. After your laptop has been restarted you will be able to use the extra memory that you’ve added.
Benefits of using external RAM for laptop
1. It is easy to install and use.
2. It is less expensive than upgrading internal RAM.
3. It is a great solution for increasing memory on laptops that don’t have a lot of internal RAM.
4. It is an easy way to add extra memory to your laptop without having to open up the case and upgrade the internal RAM.
Drawbacks of using external RAM for laptop
1. It is not as fast as internal RAM.
2. It might not be compatible with all laptops.
3. It can be more expensive than buying additional internal RAM.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I add 8GB RAM with 4GB RAM?
Yes you can add 8GB RAM with 4GB RAM. However you have to purchase an 8GB RAM stick and a 4GB RAM stick.
- Can I add RAM to my laptop if it only has one slot?
Yes you can add RAM to your laptop if it only has one slot. You will need to purchase a single RAM stick that is the same size as the existing RAM stick.
- Can I use external RAM as the main RAM?
Yes you can use external RAM as the main RAM. However it is not as fast as internal RAM and might not be compatible with all laptops.
- Is it OK to mix RAM brands?
Yes it is OK to mix RAM brands. However you should check with your laptop’s manufacturer to make sure that this is compatible with your system.
Conclusion
External RAM is a great solution for increasing memory on laptops that don’t have a lot of internal RAM. It is easy to install and use and it is less expensive than upgrading internal RAM. However it is not as fast as internal RAM and might not be compatible with all laptops. With the above-discussed three methods you will be able to use external RAM on your laptop. So go ahead and give it a try!