Get tech confident for less
Get 12 months of tech support and buying advice for only £34.30, that's a 30% saving. Together we’ll show your tech who’s boss.
Join Which? Tech SupportOffer ends 16 Jun 25. Cancel anytime.
By clicking a retailer link you consent to third-party cookies that track your onward journey. This enables W? to receive an affiliate commission if you make a purchase, which supports our mission to be the UK's consumer champion.
How to speed up your PC by adding more Ram
If your computer is slow and struggling to cope, adding more Ram can be an
inexpensive way to give it a boost. Here's how to do it in three easy steps
Expanding your computer’s Ram is a simple upgrade with instant rewards. It’s a cost-effective way to boost your PC’s performance speed, and can bring a new lease of life even to older computers.
It's a fairly simple job that you can do yourself, with the aid of a small screwdriver. Follow our three steps below to learn how to add Ram to your computer.
Already a Which? Tech Support member? If you need help, you can book an appointment with a member of our friendly Tech Support team.
What is Ram?
Ram (Random Access Memory) is your computer’s short-term memory.
When you open a photo, play a video, or launch a program, the data is temporarily stored in your computer’s Ram. It's then released back to the hard drive when you’re finished.
To check how much Ram your PC already has, click the Windows Start Menu button (or press the Windows key on your keyboard), select Settings, then System and About. Look for 'Installed Ram'.
Find out what type of Ram you need
It’s important to find out which type of Ram your computer is compatible with before you buy new memory.
Ram manufacturer Crucial has a handy tool that you can use to find out what Ram your computer takes.
Go to Crucial's Upgrades page. You can either click Upgrade Finder or Three-Step Upgrade Selector, or you can download the scanning tool by clicking Crucial Scanner and Let's get started.
That takes you to the 'Welcome to the Crucial System Scanner' page. Tick I agree to the terms & conditions, and then click Start Your Free Scan.
That downloads a file called CrucialUKScan.exe. Browse to that file (it's probably in your Downloads folder - you can find it by clicking your yellow File Explorer folder, then Downloads) and double-click it.
Grant it permission to run, and it will open up a new browser window and when it's finished it will display what Ram you have installed already and what you can buy to add to your computer.
The scanner tool sometimes explains that the best performance comes from using ‘matched pairs’, which means using two identical Ram modules of the same size and make.
News, deals and stuff the manuals don't tell you. Sign up for our Tech newsletter, it's free monthly
Buy new Ram
Don’t feel obliged to purchase the Ram that is offered for sale through the Crucial scanning tool. You might find the same Ram from another vendor, either online or from a local electronics retailer.
It’s worth noting that the Ram you need is sometimes offered in two different varieties, DIMM (usually for desktop PCs) or SO-DIMM (for laptops). Make sure you buy the right type.
Open your computer to add Ram
Before you do anything, switch your computer off, unplug it from the mains and remove its battery. We also recommend unplugging any accessories and using an anti-static wristband during the entire installation process.
Check the instruction manual that came with your laptop or look on the underside of the device for the Ram bay access panel. You will usually need a small Philips-head screwdriver to open it.
With the panel removed, you will be able to see your old Ram. Carefully remove the older modules by lightly releasing the metal or plastic clips until you can slide them out fully.
Install the new Ram by lining up its notches with the corresponding notches in the memory slot. Gently push it down until it clicks into place.
Screw the access panel back on and restart your computer.
In need of a new laptop? See our expert pick of the best laptops for all budgets
Join Which? Tech Support
Get tech confident for less
Get 12 months of tech support and buying advice for only £34.30, that's a 30% saving. Together we’ll show your tech who’s boss.
Join Which? Tech SupportOffer ends 16 Jun 25. Cancel anytime.
Which? Tech Support can help you keep you on top of your tech. Our experts explain things clearly so that you can resolve issues and feel more confident using your devices.
Get unlimited 1-2-1 expert support:
- By phone - Clear guidance in choosing, setting up, using and resolving issues with your home tech devices.
- By email - Outline the issue and we’ll email you our answer.
- By remote fix - We connect securely from our office to your home computer and resolve issues while you watch.
- In print - Which? Tech Magazine, six issues a year delivered to your door.
You can join Which? Tech Support.