Can Laptop Ram Work on A Desktop? Yes, laptop RAM works on desktops. A RAM adaptor can convert SO-DIMM memory sticks to DIMM. It has limits. For instance, motherboard compatibility influences whether your desktop may use laptop RAM. However, Intel motherboards support laptop RAMs, but AMD motherboards do not.
What Type of RAM Do Laptops Use?
Laptops use SO-DIMM RAM. These RAM kits are ideal for laptops’ tiny ITX motherboards because they’re smaller than RAM sticks.
RAM modules have connectors and notches for easy motherboard connection.
This table lists SO-DIMM RAM kit iterations.
| SO-DIMM | No. of pins |
| SDR RAM | 100 |
| SDR SDRAM | 144 |
| DDR SDRAM | 200 |
| DDR2 SDRAM | 200 |
| DDR3 SDRAM | 204 |
| DDR4 SDRAM | 260 |
What Type of RAM Do Desktops Use?
SIMM (single in-line memory module) RAM kits have been superseded by DIMM (dual in-line memory module) RAM kits for usage in desktop computers. This is because SIMM only supports a 32-bit memory path, whereas DIMM allows for a 64-bit memory path.
Following is a list of all generations of DIMM RAM kits and their respective pin counts.
| DIMM | No. of pins |
| DDR SDRAM | 184 |
| DDR2 SDRAM | 240 |
| DDR3 SDRAM | 240 |
| DDR4 SDRAM | 288 |
| DDR5 SDRAM | 288 |
As seen from the above data, all versions of DIMM RAM kits and their pin counts. The connection method changes significantly due to the disparity in pin counts. Desktop RAM modules have more pins than laptop RAM modules. Therefore, an adapter is required to connect the RAM from a laptop to a desktop PC.
Laptop RAM vs Desktop RAM: Key Differences
It should now be abundantly evident that RAMs for laptops and desktops are significantly different. Here is a summary of the fundamental distinctions between the two:
Size:
Aside from the number of pin connectors, desktop RAM sticks are often significantly larger than laptop RAM sticks. Desktop RAM sticks of the current generation are roughly 4.5 inches long, whereas laptop RAM sticks are approximately 3 inches long.
Space:
Laptop RAM capacities range from 4GB to 32GB, and desktop RAM capacities range from 4GB to 2TB if you are ready to spend that much. However, this is not suggested because it is excessive. Most individuals use between 8 and 16 GB of RAM on their computers. While 32GB RAM configurations are conceivable, you will only benefit if your computer performs memory-intensive tasks.
Expansion:
Most laptops have two RAM slots, of which one is currently occupied. In contrast, desktop computers can accommodate two to four RAM modules simultaneously, depending on the motherboard. Thus, desktop computers often offer greater RAM expansion flexibility than laptops.
How To Use An Adapter To Put RAM From A laptop Into A Desktop
Step 1: Buy a RAM adapter for both laptop and desktop RAM.
Adapters from SO-DIMMIMM to DIMM RAM come in different styles, and you can buy them online. One adapter for changing SO-DIMM RAM to DIMM RAM is the SinLoon Laptop DDR4 to Desktop PC RAM Adapter. This is a 2133 MHz DDR4 RAM adapter with 260 to 288 connectors.
Step 2: Turn off the computer
After you have completed the purchase of the new adapter and have ensured that your laptop’s RAM is prepared, you should separate the PC from its power source and any other hardware peripherals, such as a monitor, keyboard, or mouse.
Step 3: Open the computer case
Place it on a firm work surface on its side so that once the side panel of the case is removed, you will have direct access to the motherboard. This step may require the use of a Phillips screwdriver. In certain instances, you may be able to remove the side panel by hand-tightening the screws.
Step 5: Locate the RAM module slots
The majority of motherboards include two or four RAM slots. Usually, they are located next to the CPU. However, this might change depending on the brand and type of motherboard. Look for narrow, 11-centimeter-long “rails” with a central slot and stops at both ends.
Step 6: Remove the old RAM modules
If you have decided to replace the existing RAM modules, you must first press the small plastic tabs on each end of the RAM housing, whose purpose is to retain the modules firmly in place; you can then easily slide out the banks by pulling them out of their respective housings.
If you have too much force to open the clamps, they must be done correctly. In this case, press them down while using your other hand to pull the RAM modules out of their slots.
Step 7: Connect the module to the adapter and the adapter to the computer
Step carefully. Insert RAM into the adapter slot. Align the groove on the memory adapter’s backside (where the metal contacts are) with the motherboard’s RAM module slot dowel pin.
Apply equal pressure to both sides of the memory adapter until the little retaining clamps close, securing it in place. If RAM banks are resisting, rotate them 180°. You may need to apply a lot of pressure to close the retaining clamps but never force the adapter.
Step 8: Reassemble the PC case
After inserting the new RAM, reassemble the case side panel and screw in the retention screws. Your computer’s cooling fans will perform better by reassembling the case panel. To work more efficiently, reconnect all peripherals and the monitor you unplugged.
Step 9: Start your computer
Boot normally. Check RAM and adapter installation if the POST (“Power-On Self-Test”) result appears on the screen upon startup. If not, check from Windows.
RAM or adapter installation errors cause PC boot failure. Please turn off the device, open the case panel again, remove the RAM banks, and reinstall them. After installing modules, tighten the side retaining clamps of each memory slot. Restart your computer.
Step 10: Check RAM status using Windows
To open system properties, press Windows+Pause. “Installed RAM” in “Device Specifications” shows your computer’s RAM.
Every OS calculates RAM. Some motherboards share RAM with peripherals, reducing available RAM. You may have installed 8GB of RAM but only saw 7.8G.
FAQs: Can Laptop Ram Work on A Desktop
How do I install RAM on my desktop?
Install Desktop RAM in 7 Easy Steps
Step 1- Gathering Supplies.
Step 2- Shut Down Your Desktop Computer.
Step 3- Press and hold the power button for 5 seconds.
Step 4- Open the computer casing.
Step 5- Ground Yourself.
Step 6- Uninstall Existing Memory Modules
Step 7- Install Memory.
Can you use laptop RAM in desktop?
Yes, you may use the Memory from a laptop on a desktop. It can be accomplished by utilising a RAM converter that changes memory sticks from SO-DIMM to DIMM.
Is desktop RAM faster than laptop RAM?
Performance: DDR4 starts at 2133 MHz (which was more of a high-end speed for DD3) and gets faster from there. Do desktop computers with 1 GB of RAM run better than laptops with the same amount of memory? True, a desktop computer has nearly 2.5 times the power of a laptop.
Is RAM still faster than SSD?
SSDs are slower than RAM despite using memory chips rather than a mechanical disc that must be read sequentially.
Is DDR3 the same for laptops and desktops?
DDR3 and DDR4 memory are incompatible because they are keyed differently on laptops and desktops. There are additional ways to determine if you need to obtain this information from the manufacturer.
Is laptop RAM cheaper than desktop?
If a desktop and a laptop were side-by-side and had the same processing speed, RAM (random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), and screen quality, the desktop would typically be less expensive.
Is laptop RAM the same as desktop RAM?
No. Desktop memory is a different size and shape than laptop memory and will not fit in a laptop. You require a 204-pin SODIMM.
Conclusion
To conclude, laptop RAM does work on desktops. This process works on desktop computers if there is a suitable connector. However, you must select an adapter with the correct pins for the laptop RAM and computer motherboard, making them unsuitable.
However, this may be an excellent way to refresh your laptop’s DDR4 SODIMM memory. As full-size RAM prices are skyrocketing, you’re upgrading your PC for less.
Moreover, if you want to give another life to the DDR4 SODIMM memories of your laptop, this may be a great option. You’re upgrading your PC for less just when the price of full-size RAM is through the roof.
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