4+4 > 4+8?
4+4 > 4+8?
I have a laptop with 8GB RAM (about 2GB used by igpu, leaving roughly 6GB available). You're thinking about upgrading because you're tired of not using your web browser. The motherboard supports up to 12GB total (4GB soldered), but mixing RAM sizes might cause issues. It seems the 8GB is more than the 12GB limit, which could be confusing. You're unsure which brand to pair with the soldered RAM. Need advice on compatibility and options?
The soldered RAM doesn't display clear identification like a serial or part number. It lacks visible markings that would reveal its specific details.
Choose a stick rated at 2400 or higher and it should generally perform well.
Get CPU-Z from CPUID.com, check the SPD section to see RAM details in each slot, then purchase a similar model with better speed and timing as much as possible. Ideally match the exact specs but upgrade capacity if needed. Personally, I use a 4+8 configuration on my laptop for the same reasons, and it performs well. It supports dual-channel up to 8GB before switching to single-channel.
I followed exactly the steps I took on my Acer Swift 3. I soldered 4GB and added another 8GB, bringing the total to 12GB with 2GB dedicated to the APU. It's disappointing that laptop makers often include slow RAM. My VEGA iGPU is running at a lower speed than the 8GB 3200MHz I installed because it uses the lowest common denominator. This has caused the VEGA 8 performance to drop. I could have gained those extra 5 frames per second.
This tale is an old one that needs two identical memory sticks in dual channels. Today's tech is very adaptable, letting memory sticks vary in size and speed since over a decade ago. The main issue is that using two different sticks will cause them to operate at a reduced speed compared to matching ones.
Slot 1 holds the standard SODIMM RAM module (manufacturer: SK Hynix). Slot 2 appears empty—possibly where the soldered RAM chip is placed.