[EXPLAINED] Can You Add RAM to a Prebuilt PC? 

The simplest answer is YES! You surely can add RAM to a prebuilt PC. All modern PCs in a way upgradable and a prebuilt one is no exception. You can add or replace parts like CPU, GPU, PSU, storage, fans, etc including RAM. 

Sometimes people wonder if it’s possible to add RAM to a prebuilt PC as they come fully compact. It’s pretty normal to think so. The fact is you can upgrade your prebuilt PC anytime you want by adding additional RAM if you can afford it. 

But there’s one thing to realize, prebuilt PCs generally come from one brand. Therefore, before adding RAM, you must check if the new RAM supports the existing RAM and if your PC can handle the added capacity.

Details About Adding RAM to a Prebuilt PC

If you’re up to adding RAM, there’re some facts that you need to keep in mind. There’re two primary stages to adding RAM to a PC. The first stage is choosing a suitable RAM and the second one is adding the RAM perfectly. We’ll go through the stages one by one.

1. Choose Suitable RAM

First and foremost, you’ve to determine which RAM is compatible with your motherboard. Otherwise, there’re possible chances that you end up installing the wrong RAM and it’ll be good for nothing. 

That’s why it’s necessary to choose RAM for your motherboard according to the system architecture. To know that –

Step 1: Press Win + R to open Run.

Step 2: Type msinfo32 and go for it.

Step 3: Now, as the System Information window appears, locate BaseBoard Manufacturer, Product, and Version to get your motherboard information.

Step 4: After that, search for your motherboard specifications online using the information. Then ensure its RAM configuration and maximum capacity.

This way you’ll definitely know your system limits and there won’t be any problems installing new RAM on the available RAM slots according to your preference and budget.

2. Add RAM to a Prebuilt PC

As you’ve got the idea of choosing suitable RAM for your PC, it’s time to add RAM to it. In case you don’t know how to do that, just follow these effective steps with proper attention –

Step 1: Power off your PC and unplug all connected cords and cables.

Step 2: Lay down the case on its side on a flat and hard surface.

Step 3: Now, unscrew and open the casing gently to access the motherboard. You can read the user manual if you need further consultancy. 

Step 4: Use an unpainted metal surface to ground yourself in terms of protecting the internal components from static electricity discharge.

Step 5: Then push on the RAM clips at their end. The RAM will pop out partially from the slot. Just take them out with ease. 

Step 6: After that, place the new RAM as the notches on each stick are aligned with the slot. Now, push it firmly until the click tone, which means the clips are properly attached and holding the new RAM.

Step 7: Finally, reattach the PC casing and replug the cables and accessories.

That’s it! Now, turn on your PC.

How to Ensure That You Added RAM Successfully?

You’re not finished yet. After adding RAM you also need to make sure that it’s successfully done. With the naked eye, the process may seem okay when the RAM gets attached properly. But who knows if your motherboard can make a connection with the RAM? To get assured about it –

Step 1: Head to the Search bar and search for About your PC.

Step 2: Click on Open from the right pane.

Step 3: Now, in the About tab, under the Device specifications sections, check the Installed RAM. Your added RAM storage should be shown here.

If you find that the amount of RAM listed here is showing the increased amount you’ve inserted, then the upgrade is successful!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I add RAM to my laptop?

If you want to add RAM to your laptop, start by shutting down your laptop and unplugging the attached cables and peripherals. Then take off the bottom casing and locate the available RAM slot. Finally, line up the new RAM into the proper position. After that, firmly push the RAM so that it gets locked by the RAM clips.

How much RAM is better for gaming?

Even though 8GB RAM is enough for playing lots of games, modern games recommend more RAM to give their best performance. Most modern games require at least 16GB RAM to altogether avoid lagging or stuttering and provide faster, smoother, high-performance gameplay. Still the more the RAM, the better the overall performance.

Is Adding RAM worth it?

Yes, it is. When you expand your RAM storage by adding more RAM, it certainly helps to boost your computer’s overall performance and make it more capable of processing and multitasking. It’s also a cost-effective upgrade.

Is it okay to upgrade my prebuilt PC?

Upgrading your prebuilt PC is completely okay if you can do this properly. If you’ve proper knowledge about the components you want to upgrade including their compatibility and sustainability, you’re welcome to upgrade your PC. Basically, your PC’s motherboard compatibility is most important when it’s about upgrading a prebuilt PC. 

Conclusion

Lastly, it can be said that you can add RAM to your prebuilt PC. Just remember to select RAM according to your system architecture, the process of adding RAM, and check if the RAM is added perfectly. Knock us if you’ve any further questions and let us know if this post helps you.