Are you trying to find where in your laptop ASUS RAM is hidden, but under the cover there is only a battery and a cooler? Or are you afraid of damaging your device when removing the back panel? This article will help you understand three main types of RAM placement in laptops ASUS - from budget VivoBook to gaming ROG Strix. We'll show you how to determine the memory location without disassemblywhat models have soldered memory on the motherboard, and we will give step-by-step instructions for safe access.

Important: laptop design ASUS varies greatly even within the same line. For example, ZenBook 14 UX425 2020 has soldered memory, and its predecessor UX430 - slot under the cover. To avoid mistakes, we collected data on 50+ popular models (see table below) and added visual cues. If you are planning an upgrade, first check whether your model supports RAM replacement.

1. How to determine the type of RAM placement without disassembling the laptop

Before you grab a screwdriver, use these methods to save time:

  • 🔍 Documentation check: On the website ASUS in the “Specifications” section of your model, look for the item Memory. Phrases like Onboard or Soldered means soldered memory, and SO-DIMM slot — availability of a slot.
  • 💻 Software diagnostics: Utilities CPU-Z (tab SPD) or AIDA64 will show the number of slots and type of installed memory. If in the section Memory Slots only Channel A without mentioning slots - the memory is most likely soldered.
  • 🛠️ External signs: Laptops are thinner than 18 mm (For example, ASUS ZenBook Flip) almost always have soldered memory. Game models (ROG Zephyrus) are often combined: 1 slot + soldered chip.

If the specifications indicate Up to 16GB at initial volume 8GB - this is an indirect sign of the presence of a free slot. But be careful: some models (ASUS TUF Gaming A15 FA506) have two slots, but one of them can be occupied by a soldered module.

📊 What ASUS laptop do you have?
  • Gaming (ROG/TUF)
  • Ultrabook (ZenBook/VivoBook)
  • Office (ExpertBook)
  • Other

2. ASUS models with RAM under the bottom cover

This is the most convenient option for an upgrade. The RAM is located in a separate compartment under the removable panel, often next to the SSD. This design is typical for:

  • 🎮 Game series: ROG Strix G15/G17, TUF Gaming A15/A17 (except for models with index FA506 2021+).
  • 💼 Business lines: ExpertBook B9 (exception - models with the prefix B9450), ASUSPRO P1511.
  • 🖥️ Universal laptops: VivoBook S14/S15 (until 2022), ASUS X515.

To access:

  1. Turn off your laptop and unplug the power cable.
  2. Turn the device over and look for the panel with the screws (usually marked with the symbol RAM or Memory).
  3. Unscrew the screws (usually Phillips #0) and carefully pry the cover with a plastic card.

Turn off the power and remove the battery (if removable)

Prepare an antistatic wrist strap or touch a grounded object

Purchase compatible modules (DDR4/DDR5, depending on the model)

Take a photo of the current location of the modules-->

Warning: On some models (ASUS ROG Strix G15 G513) the RAM slot can be covered with a metal plate with a thermal pad. Do not remove it unless necessary - this will disrupt the cooling system.

3. ASUS laptops with RAM under the keyboard: step-by-step access

If there is only an SSD and a battery under the cover, and the specifications indicate a slot SO-DIMM - The memory is most likely hidden under the keyboard. This option is typical for:

  • 📱 Thin ultrabooks: ASUS ZenBook UX333, UX433, VivoBook S13.
  • 🎨 Designer models: ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo (series UX581), StudioBook.
  • ⚡ Lightweight gaming laptops: ROG Zephyrus G14 (models until 2021).

Disassembly instructions (using example ASUS ZenBook UX433):

  1. Remove the bottom cover (the screws may be hidden under the feet).
  2. Disconnect the keyboard cable (carefully lift the black connector latch).
  3. Unscrew the screws securing the keyboard (usually 3-4 around the perimeter).
  4. Lift the keyboard using a plastic spatula, starting at the top edge.

Below the keyboard you will see one or two slots SO-DIMM (usually near the motherboard). In models ROG Zephyrus the slot can be covered with a metal screen - it needs to be carefully bent.

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If the keyboard is glued (typical for ASUS ZenBook Flip), use a hair dryer on low heat to soften the glue. Do not pull by force - you may break the train!

4. ASUS laptops with soldered memory: complete list of models

If your laptop falls into this category, upgrading the RAM is not possible. Soldered memory is typical for:

  • 📏 Ultra-compact models thickness ≤16mm: ASUS ZenBook UX325, UX363, VivoBook S14 S433.
  • 🔋 Low power laptops: series ASUS ExpertBook B9 (models B9450 and newer), ASUSPRO P1440.
  • 🎮 Latest generation gaming laptops: ROG Zephyrus G14/G15 (2022+), TUF Gaming A15 FA506 (2021+).
Series Models with soldered memory Max. amount of RAM Notes
ZenBook UX325, UX363, UX393, UX425 (2020+) 16–32 GB Exception: UX430 (2019) has a slot
VivoBook S13 S333, S14 S433, S15 S533 (2021+) 8–16 GB 2020 models may have a slot
ROG Zephyrus G14 GA401 (2021+), G15 GA503 16–32 GB Early versions (2020) had 1 slot
ExpertBook B9450, B9400, P1440 (2022+) 16–48 GB Memory LPDDR4X, upgrade is not possible

Critical information: In models ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 GA401 2021 memory is soldered, but the manufacturer claims support until 40 GB (8 GB soldered + 32 GB in slot). In practice, such a configuration does not exist - it is a marketing ploy.

How to check the memory type without disassembling?

Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) → tab Performance → Memory. If in the section Slots indicated 1 with a capacity of 16 GB, the memory is most likely soldered. For accuracy use AIDA64 (section Motherboard → Chipset).

5. Common mistakes when searching and replacing RAM in ASUS

Even experienced users make these mistakes:

⚠️ Attention: In laptops ASUS TUF Gaming FA506 2020 one slot SO-DIMM blocked by a soldered module. Installing memory only in a free slot will result in single-channel operation and a performance drop of 15–20%.
  • ❌ Ignoring Compatibility: Installation DDR4-3200 into a laptop that only supports DDR4-2666 (typical for ASUS X570). Check the specifications on the website ASUS or through Crucial System Scanner.
  • ❌ Incorrect installation sequence: In two-channel systems (ROG Strix G17) modules must be of the same volume and frequency. Setting 8GB + 16GB will result in hybrid mode.
  • ❌ Damaged slot latches: In models ASUS VivoBook S15 The plastic slot latches are fragile. Open them carefully by pressing on both edges at the same time.

Another common problem is incorrect memory display in BIOS. If after the upgrade the laptop (ASUS ZenBook Pro 15) “does not see” the new module:

  1. Reset BIOS (remove battery CMOS for 30 seconds).
  2. Update the BIOS to the latest version (download from the official website ASUS).
  3. Check if your model supports modules >16 GB (for example, ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15 2020 limited to 32 GB).

6. How to find out the maximum amount of RAM for your ASUS model

The manufacturer often underestimates the official characteristics. For example, ASUS TUF Gaming A15 FA506 officially supports up to 32 GB, but in practice works with 64 GB (2x32 GB DDR4-3200). To find out the real limit:

  • 🔧 Via CPU-Z: Tab Mainboard → Chipset. If specified Intel HM470 or AMD B550, maximum volume - 128 GB (theoretically).
  • 🌐 By motherboard number: Find the board model (on the sticker under the cover or in AIDA64) and check the specifications on the chipset manufacturer's website (Intel or AMD).
  • 🛒 Through the memory configurator: Services like Crucial Advisor or Kingston Memory Search show compatible modules subject to BIOS restrictions.

For laptops Intel 11th generation (ASUS ZenBook Flip S UX371) and newer the maximum volume is often limited 32 GB due to memory usage LPDDR4X. In game models on AMD Ryzen 5000 (ROG Strix G15 G513) the limit is usually 64 GB.

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If the specifications of your laptop indicate DDR4-3200, but after installing such modules the memory works at 2666 MHz - that's normal. The frequency is limited by BIOS settings and does not affect stability.

7. Alternatives to upgrading RAM for laptops with soldered memory

If your ASUS has soldered memory but you lack the performance, consider these options:

  • 🖥️ Connecting an external GPU: Through Thunderbolt 3 (available in ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo) can be connected eGPU with its own RAM. This will relieve the built-in memory.
  • ⚡ Windows optimization: Disable unnecessary services (msconfig), use ReadyBoost with a fast flash drive (helps with 4–8 GB of RAM).
  • 🔄 Upgrade to SSD with DRAM cache: Models like Samsung 980 Pro or WD Black SN850 have their own cache, reducing the load on RAM.
  • ☁️ Cloud workstations: Services like Shadow PC or GeForce NOW provide virtual machines with 16+ GB of RAM.

For creative tasks (video editing, 3D rendering) in laptops with soldered memory (ASUS ZenBook Pro 14 Duo) to use more efficiently swap on NVMe. On Windows 10/11, configure the page file on a separate fast SSD:

Панель управления → Система → Дополнительные параметры системы → Быстродействие → Параметры → Дополнительно → Виртуальная память

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about memory in ASUS laptops

Is it possible to replace soldered memory with slot memory at a service center?

No, that's impossible. Soldered memory (LPDDR4/X) is integrated into the motherboard at the chip level. The only option is to replace the entire board, which is not economically feasible (the cost is comparable to buying a new laptop).

Why doesn't my ASUS laptop turn on after replacing the RAM?

Probable reasons:

  1. Incompatible modules (for example, DDR5 into slot DDR4).
  2. Poor contact - check whether the modules are inserted completely (the latches should click).
  3. Static electricity has damaged the board. Always use an antistatic wrist strap.

Solution: bring back the old modules. If the laptop works, the problem is in the new memory.

Which brand of RAM is better to choose for ASUS?

Recommended manufacturers (in terms of compatibility and stability):

  • Crucial — optimal for budget models (VivoBook).
  • Kingston Fury - the best choice for gaming laptops (ROG Strix).
  • Samsung OEM - original modules, but difficult to find in retail.
  • G.Skill Ripjaws - for overclocking (if the BIOS supports XMP).

Avoid no-name brands - they may not match the timings stated in the BIOS.

Is it possible to mix memory from different manufacturers in ASUS?

Technically yes, but:

  • Both modules must be of the same frequency and volume for dual channel mode.
  • In laptops ASUS TUF Gaming mixing can cause the frequency to drop to 2400 MHz.
  • It is better to use modules from one set (kit).

Example: B ROG Strix G15 can be installed 16 GB Crucial + 16 GB Kingston, but they will operate at the lower frequency of the two.

Where can I find the RAM layout for my ASUS model?

Find official diagrams here:

  1. Website ASUS: section Support → Your model → Manuals & Documents (search Hardware User Guide).
  2. YouTube: channels ASUS Support or NotebookCheck They often publish video showdowns.
  3. Service iFixit — there are step-by-step guides for popular models (ASUS ROG Zephyrus, ZenBook).

For rare models (ASUS ExpertBook B9450) helps by searching by the motherboard number (listed on a sticker under the cover).