4 Things to Know Before Adding RAM to a Laptop With Soldered Memory

A single 16GB SODIMM will likely work with 16GB soldered for 32GB total, assuming the slot supports it. Most modern laptops with this design are built for that upgrade path.

Not all laptops handle mixed RAM sizes well. Some limit the SODIMM slot to 8GB or require matching capacities for dual-channel performance.

Check your specific model’s “max RAM supported” or “soldered + SODIMM configuration” online. A quick search will confirm compatibility.

Some manufacturers lock the BIOS to only allow certain configurations, which can block the upgrade. But in most cases, the stick will work fine.