How to increase laptop memory for games: upgrading RAM and SSD without errors

Does the laptop slow down in new games, textures take too long to load, and the system issues a warning about low memory? The problem is familiar to many gamers, especially owners of budget or outdated models. Modern projects like Cyberpunk 2077 or Alan Wake 2 require not only a powerful processor and video card, but also sufficient volume random access memory (RAM) And storage (SSD/HDD). Even if your laptop has discrete graphics, lack of memory can negate all the benefits.

In this article, we'll look at how to increase laptop memory for gaming - from simply adding more RAM to replacing the hard drive with a high-speed SSD. You will learn which components to choose, how to avoid common mistakes when upgrading, and what to do if your laptop does not support the expansion. And for those who are not ready to spend money on hardware, we have prepared ways to optimize the existing configuration.

1. Checking the current configuration: how much memory is already there and what can be added

Before you run to the store for new sticks of RAM or SSD, you need to understand what modules does your laptop support?. To do this, use standard Windows tools or third-party utilities.

The fastest way is to open Task Manager (keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to tab Performance and select a section Memory. Here you will see:

• 🔹 Total RAM (for example, 8 GB or 16 GB);
• 🔹 Memory type (DDR4, DDR5 or outdated DDR3);
• 🔹 Number of usable slots (for example, "2 out of 4").

For more detailed information, download the free utility CPU-Z or HWiNFO. They will show not only the current characteristics, but also maximum supported memory size, and also clock frequency, which should be taken into account when purchasing new modules.

⚠️ Attention: If in Task Manager Only 1 slot out of 2 is displayed, this does not always mean that the second one is empty. Perhaps it is occupied by a soldered strip (especially in ultrabooks). Check the documentation for the model or disassemble the laptop.

2. Increasing random access memory (RAM): which sticks to choose and how to install

Adding RAM is the most obvious way to improve gaming performance. However, not all laptops allow you to do this. For example, in Apple MacBook Air or ASUS ZenBook The memory is often soldered to the motherboard. Before purchasing, check to see if your model supports upgrades.

Which memory to choose?

• 🔹 Type: must match the current one (DDR4-3200 will not fit the slot DDR5-4800).
• 🔹 Volume: for games in 2026, the minimum is 16 GB (8 GB is only enough for indie projects).
• 🔹 Clock frequency: take the same or higher, but not lower than the existing one (otherwise both bars will operate at the minimum frequency).
• 🔹 Brand: reliable manufacturers - Corsair, Kingston, Crucial, Samsung.

Example: if you have one strip installed Kingston DDR4-2666 8GB, buy a second one of the same type to work in dual-channel mode. This will increase throughput by 15–20%.

How to install?

1. Turn off the laptop and disconnect the battery (if removable).
2. Remove the back cover (a Phillips screwdriver may be required).
3. Carefully insert the new strip into the slot until it clicks (the corner should align with the groove).
4. Close the lid, turn on the laptop and check the memory capacity in Task Manager.

Unplug the laptop|Remove static electricity (touch a metal object)|Prepare a screwdriver and a plastic spatula|Take a photo of the location of the screws-->

3. Replacing HDD with SSD: why is it critical for games

SSD speeds up loading games by 3-5 times compared to HDD, and also reduces the time it takes to load textures and levels. For example, in The Witcher 3 transition between locations on SSD takes 5–10 seconds, and on HDD - up to 30. In addition, modern games (for example, Starfield or Hogwarts Legacy) require high data reading speed, otherwise there will be freezes.

Which SSD to choose?

Parameter	Recommendation for gamers	Examples of models
Type	NVMe PCIe 3.0/4.0 (5 times faster than SATA SSD)	Samsung 980 Pro, WD Black SN850X
Volume	1 TB (enough for 5–10 AAA games)	Crucial P5 Plus 1TB
Reading speed	From 3000 MB/s (for PCIe 3.0)	Kingston KC3000 (7000 MB/s)
Form factor	M.2 2280 (most common)	Any of the above

If the laptop only has a slot for SATA SSD (for example, in older models Lenovo IdeaPad or Acer Aspire), take Samsung 870 EVO or Crucial MX500. They are slower than NVMe, but still significantly superior to HDDs.

⚠️ Attention: When replacing HDD with SSD, do not forget transfer the system with the help Macrium Reflect or Clonezilla. Simple copy-paste of files will not work - Windows will not boot!

4. Dual-channel RAM mode: why it is important and how to enable it

If a laptop has two sticks of RAM of the same size and frequency, they can work in two-channel mode, increasing throughput by 10–30%. This is especially noticeable in games where the speed of data exchange between the CPU and GPU is important.

How to check if dual channel mode is enabled?

1. Run CPU-Z and go to the tab Memory.
2. Look at the line Channel # - if specified Dual, the mode is active.

If the mode does not work, the reasons may be as follows:

• 🔹 Planks of different volumes or frequencies;
• 🔹 One of the bars is faulty or poorly inserted;
• 🔹 BIOS does not support dual-channel mode (rare, but happens in older laptops).

What should I do if dual-channel mode does not turn on?

1. Rearrange the slats (sometimes the slots work asymmetrically).

2. Update the BIOS to the latest version (instructions on the manufacturer's website).

3. Check the compatibility of the strips using Kingston Memory Search or Crucial Advisor.

5. Optimizing virtual memory (swap file)

If there is not enough physical memory, Windows uses swap file — reserve on the hard drive. By default, its size is controlled by the system, but for games it is better to configure it manually.

How to change the page file size:

1. Open Control Panel → System → Advanced system settings.
2. In the section Performance click Settings → Advanced → Virtual memory → Change.
3. Uncheck Automatically select the size of the paging file.
4. Specify Original size (recommended 1.5 × amount of RAM) and Maximum size (3 × amount of RAM).
5. Click Set and reboot your laptop.

Example: If you have 16GB RAM, set the original size 24,576 MB (16 × 1.5), and the maximum is 49,152 MB (16 × 3).

⚠️ Attention: The page file on an SSD reduces its resource (number of write cycles). If you have a small NVMe (256-512 GB), place the page file on the HDD (if you have one) or disable it completely if the RAM is 32 GB or more.

6. Alternative ways to increase memory without upgrading

If the upgrade is not possible (for example, in MacBook Pro or thin ultrabooks), try these methods:

• 🔹 Close background processes: games often slow down due to Discord, Chrome with a dozen tabs or Steam in the background. Use Task Managerto complete unnecessary tasks.
• 🔹 Disable visual effects: go to Settings → System → About → Additional system settings → Performance and select Provide the best performance.
• 🔹 Use ReadyBoost: if you have a flash drive (minimum 16 GB), connect it and enable it in the disk properties ReadyBoost. This won't replace RAM, but it will speed up caching.
• 🔹 Lower graphics settings: turn it off in games V-Sync, reduce Shadows And Particle effects - this will reduce the memory load.

For owners of laptops with integrated graphics (Intel UHD or AMD Radeon Vega) it is critical to allocate maximum memory for the video adapter. This can be done in the BIOS (section Advanced → Graphics Settings) or through the driver control panel.

7. Common mistakes when upgrading and how to avoid them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when increasing memory. Here are the most common:

• 🔹 Buying incompatible memory: for example, DDR4-3200 for a laptop that only supports DDR4-2400. Always check the specifications on the manufacturer's website (eg. Lenovo PSREF or HP Product Bulletin).
• 🔹 Ignoring dual channel mode: if you buy one 16 GB stick instead of two 8 GB sticks, performance will drop by 15-20%.
• 🔹 Incorrect SSD installation: If you do not secure the NVMe with a screw, it may move away from the slot due to vibration (this is important for gaming laptops that are often carried).
• 🔹 No backup: When transferring the system to a new SSD, there is a risk of losing data. Always back up to an external drive.

Another typical problem is Laptop doesn't see new memory. Reasons:

• 🔹 The bar is not fully inserted into the slot;
• 🔹 BIOS requires updating;
• 🔹 The RAM limit is set in the BIOS settings (need to be reset to factory settings).

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to increase the memory in a laptop if it is soldered?

No, if the RAM is soldered to the motherboard (as in most ultrabooks), it is impossible to physically add memory. The only way out is to optimize the current configuration (disabling background processes, using a swap file) or buying a new laptop.

How much RAM do you need for gaming in 2026?

Minimum - 16 GB (for GTA V, CS2, Fortnite). For new AAA projects (Starfield, Alan Wake 2) recommended 32 GB, especially if you stream or use mods.

Which SSD is better for gaming: NVMe or SATA?

NVMe is 3-5 times faster than SATA, so it is preferable for gaming. However, if the laptop does not have an M.2 slot, you will have to be content with a SATA SSD (for example, Samsung 870 EVO).

Is it possible to install an SSD and HDD at the same time?

Yes, if the laptop has two slots (for example, M.2 for SSD and 2.5" for HDD). The best option is the system and games on the SSD, and files (screenshots, videos) on the HDD.

What should I do if after the upgrade my laptop starts to get hotter?

Adding RAM or replacing HDD with SSD should not affect the temperature. If your laptop is overheating, check:

• 🔹 Does the new SSD interfere with cooling (sometimes radiators are located next to the drive);
• 🔹 Does the cooler need to be cleaned of dust?
• 🔹 Are the fan settings in the BIOS incorrect?