How to choose and upgrade the right RAM for your computer

Choosing the wrong RAM can make your computer unstable, you need to choose a compatible type and upgrade properly to optimize performance.

Type of RAM that the motherboard supports

If you do not know how to distinguish RAM types, please refer to the method of distinguishing RAM that TipsMake has introduced. Normally, determine the age of the motherboard you are using. If you have just bought it in the last 3 or 4 years, it is very likely that the RAM type will be DDR III, and before that it will be DDR II, while DDR I has been forgotten with the past.

Is it compatible with the motherboard?

In addition to the type of RAM, you need to check the compatibility with the motherboard. If the motherboard only supports a maximum BUS of 1066MHz but the new RAM is 1333MHz, the system may have errors or speed limitations.

Not all high BUS is good, the important thing is whether the mainboard supports it or not to ensure stable performance.

Is it compatible with the remaining RAM?

As well as motherboard compatibility, you also need to check whether the new RAM is compatible with the old RAM.

A standard pair of RAM needs to be of the same brand, capacity and BUS to optimize performance. If you install new RAM with a higher BUS than the old RAM, the speed will still be limited to a lower level, causing waste.

When choosing to upgrade, check your current RAM specifications to ensure compatibility. Also, install carefully, avoid breaking the connector pins, buy from a reputable store, and always disconnect the power before doing so. If you can't upgrade, you can optimize your memory to improve performance temporarily.

Marvin Fry

Update 11 March 2025