Lenovo launches ThinkPad P1 (Gen 7): The first laptop with LPCAMM2 memory

The Lenovo ThinkPad P1 (Gen 7), uses LPDDR5X memory in an LPCAMM2 module that users can upgrade or replace by removing screws from the laptop's motherboard.

That's a big change from the LPDDR memory currently found in most modern laptops. This type of memory is usually soldered to the motherboard, making upgrades much more difficult. LPCAMM2 - or Low-Power Compression-Attached Memory Module - provides modularity without sacrificing the power efficiency of LPDDR.

Lenovo launches ThinkPad P1 (Gen 7): The first laptop with LPCAMM2 memory Picture 1 Lenovo launches ThinkPad P1 (Gen 7): The first laptop with LPCAMM2 memory Picture 2

Traditional DDR RAM uses SODIMM sticks that plug into the motherboard, just like on a desktop. As iFixit points out, LPDDR is much more power efficient, but it needs to be soldered directly to the mainboard, as close to the processor as possible. Until now, manufacturers have had to choose between upgradeable RAM and power-efficient RAM. LPCAMM2 tries to balance both factors by fastening it to the motherboard with screws instead of solder. And unlike SODIMM bars, each LPCAMM2 module is dual channel, so just one module is enough.

As shown in the hands-on video posted by iFixit, the LPCAMM2 in Lenovo's new ThinkPad P1 can be replaced by removing the back of the laptop and then removing the battery. From there, the LPCAMM2 can be removed by removing the 3 Phillips head screws.

In addition to Micron, Samsung and ADATA are also participating in LPCAMM2. Hopefully that will help users easily upgrade their memory in the future.

Jessica Tanner

Update 09 May 2024