Upgrade options for my laptop (RAM & SSD)?

[AJAR1]

I currently only have 4GB memory and 128GB SSD... just wondered whether I can upgrade this laptop or whether I should just invest in a higher spec. machine? I only bought this as a backup in case of an emergency, should my 'work' machine suddenly die - which is recently has!

So, the key question is - can I upgrade my RAM (checked on Crucial and it states that 32GB is max)!? Is this right? And if it is, do I have to install a matched pair  (assuming there are 2 slots!?) e.g. another 4, or two 8s... or can I just add a 16 to take my total RAM to 20GB?

As for SSD, is it possible to add another one to sit alongside the original (as I'm not really a 'techie' and think it'd be too difficult and dangerous to install a new, larger memory/storage SSD )?

Any help, suggestions would be very much appreciated!

AJAR

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi:

If you buy one of the compatible Crucial memory chips (the ones with the green circuit boards), listed for your PC, you should be able to add it to the existing memory chip.

Memory installed in mismatched capacities may not run in dual channel mode if that is important to you.

If you were to install a 16 GB chip along with the 4 GB chip currently installed, you will probably have 20 GB of memory running in single channel mode.

Your PC only has one M.2 slot for a SSD, so if you want more storage, you will need to replace the 128 GB M.2 SSD with one having a larger storage capacity.

I don't know what type of M.2 SSD your notebook came with, but it should support a NVMe M.2 SSD.

HP has this service manual on your notebook's support page, it has different model numbers with older processors, but hopefully it will help you open up the notebook to do the upgrades.

HP Notebook 15s-fq1515na Manuals | HP® Customer Support

[AJAR1]

Hi Paul,

Thank you for your prompt and comprehensive reply!

I might just upgrade the RAM at this stage then. Two matched modules sounds the best solution - although I'm not sure I could justify why!

Thanks again - very much appreciated! 

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.

I would suggest you go with the 2 matching chips, so the memory runs in the higher performing dual channel mode.

You may want to do a budget upgrade and just add another 4 GB DDR4-2666 MHz chip and have 8 GB, or install 2 x 8 GB and have 16 GB running in dual channel mode.

[AJAR1]

I did think about that, but I'm one of those people who has dozens of Chrome browser windows open simultaneously, as well as Office 365 docs, sheets & slides (a dozen or so minimum), so I thought 16GB might be a good idea!?

[Paul_Tikkanen]

I agree.

If you have the budget for it, the more memory the merrier.

16 GB to me is a decent place to be.

8 GB is the minimum, and 4 GB...well...that just isn't enough anymore.

[AJAR1]

Sorted - ordered and being processed! 

Amazon: £20.15 for 8GB Module, so 16gb for just over £40 - a great deal IMHO! 

Thanks again for your superb support & advice!!! 

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Anytime.

Glad to have been of assistance.

Yes, that is a very good buy on the memory.

[AJAR1]

Hi Paul  - all sorted... bought, installed and working like a dream!

Thanks again for your expert help!!!

AJAR

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.

Enjoy!