SK Hynx RAM upgrade kit (SK Hynix 1x 8GB DDR4-2400 SODIMM PC4-19200T-S Single Rank x8 Module)
SK Hynx RAM upgrade kit (SK Hynix 1x 8GB DDR4-2400 SODIMM PC4-19200T-S Single Rank x8 Module)
Hello everyone! I've recently chosen to replace the RAM in my laptop (Lenovo Y520-15IKBN). It was purchased five years ago with just one RAM stick from the manufacturer—SK Hynix, 8GB DDR4-2666 PC4-21300 SDRAM SODIMM. Now I want to add another 8GB stick so I can use dual-channel. The challenge is that I can't locate the same RAM module, even though I understand compatibility discussions are mixed. Here are my questions: 1. Can I purchase RAM from other brands like Kingston, Transcend, APACER, etc., as long as they match the frequency, CAS latency, and voltage? I've heard that most RAM makers don't produce their own chips but instead buy them from SK Hynix and label them differently. 2. I found a module: SK Hynix 1x 8GB DDR4-2400 SODIMM PC4-19200T-S Single Rank x8. Is this compatible with my setup? My RAM is 2666 MHz, but my CPU tops out at 2400 MHz. I checked Intel's site and saw that RAM speeds of 2666 are limited to 2400. Does that really matter for me? Since my CPU (Intel Core i5-7300HQ) supports up to 1200 MHz, would running 2666 MHz RAM actually slow it down? And what about the CL ratings—my RAM is CL19, but I suspect it's running CL17. 3. I don't see any info about SK Hynix 1x 8GB DDR4-2400 SODIMM PC4-19200T-S being DRAM or SDRAM. Does that affect my situation? 4. Lastly, why would a manufacturer install 1333 MHz RAM in a laptop that supports up to 1200 MHz?
Just noticed the RAM in that module is actually DrM, so no worries there.
Thanks for your response! I’ll give it a shot, it’s 25$. Regarding my confusion about DRAM and SDRAM (third question), I’ve done some research and think most PC RAM is actually SDRAM. Some sites or specs might omit it for simplicity or clarity—confusion is common. The most frequent term you’ll see is DRAM.
Most laptops rely on regular RAM, allowing easier compatibility than with XMP desktop RAM. Be careful not to mix up module makers and chip producers. Leading chip companies are Micron (known as Crucial for consumers), SK Hynix, and Samsung. Module makers purchase these chips and market them under their own names. Chip producers can also create their own modules. Standard RAM usually comes with profiles for slower performance, so it operates at a lower setting. Prices and stock levels might affect this. The principle remains the same.