Question RAM updated for ASUS model X551M laptop computer

[wpshooter]

Have a great little (although be in quite old) ASUS model X551M laptop computer.

I only came up 4gb of RAM. My question is would I get any "significant" benefit from change the 1 slot that it has from 4 to 8gb module ?

I am going to be replacing the mechanical hard drive in it with a SSD which I figure will give me a good boost in speed but was wondering if it would be worthwhile to upgrade the memory especially since the RAM (unlike the hard drive) is located on the bottom/down side of the MB, which would require that I remove the MB from the case. All this in light of the fact that I have done lot of work on desktop computers but have never opened up a laptop for maintenance. And yes, I have watched a video on the procedure.

Thanks.

 

[In2Photos]

I've updated several laptops from HDD to SSD and more RAM. There is always significant improvement after the upgrade.

BTW, there are some instructions on the ifixit site for your laptop if you need help (likely on Youtube as well). https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Asus_X5511M-RCLN03

 

[wpshooter]

Thanks, I have some spare SSDs that I could use but may wait til I get it opened up before I tried to purchase an 8gb ram module.

 

[Shmee]

I am not sure that it would be worth the effort to upgrade the RAM. Keep in mind this laptop only comes with a Celeron, or so my research tells me. But if you were to upgrade it and want to use it, SSD is a must, memory maybe, depending on what OS you are running. If running Windows currently, you may want to consider putting a light linux on the SSD instead. This would make it run faster and more secure, and your RAM, whether 4GB or 8GB, would go farther.

I personally would not be keen on running anything with a Celeron though. Even if it had Lubuntu or puppy linux.

 

[wpshooter]

Thanks, yes, I have been a Linux (Mint mate) for about 15 years now.

 

[legolas_tk]

I upgrade my RAM on my Asus laptop from 8GB to 16GB and there was no more lag and my laptop is running smoothly. When I was running 8GB, it was laggy and it didn't handle multiple applications. So, 4GB to 8GB will definitely worth it.

 

[wpshooter]

Unfortunately, most everyone I have consulted with (including ASUS) tells me that the ASUS model X551M can only use 4gb module, can not according to what they say use an 8gb module in its 1 slot.

Looks like just a new CMOS battery for it.

Thanks.

 

[Shmee]

Unfortunately, most everyone I have consulted with (including ASUS) tells me that the ASUS model X551M can only use 4gb module, can not according to what they say use an 8gb module in its 1 slot.

Looks like just a new CMOS battery for it.

Thanks.

If you can get a cheap 8GB DDR3 SODIMM, it doesn't hurt to try it. But, as mentioned before, it may be too much work taking it apart to be worth it still. Also, your memory support may depend on the CPU as well as the motherboard, and you mentioned that your model has a Celeron. This may be why the limit is 4GB?

Anyway, I would certainly recommend replacing the HDD with an SSD if you have not already. If you are going to be opening up the laptop anyway, to replace the CMOS battery, you may as well have an SSD if you plan to keep the laptop. No laptops these days should have spinners in them. I get that some applications, such as a NAS or server require the bulk storage of large capacity HDD's, but a laptop does not. 2.5" HDDs are far worse than quality 3.5in HDDs anyway.

 

[jeyost]

Cmos battery and ram are on bottom side of motherboard as noted. If you are going to do one you might as well do the other. Had no trouble replacing the 4gb module with an 8gb module. (a TimeTec 8gb DDR3L 1.35v 2rx8 cl11 module picked up for a Macbook upgrade replaced the oem 4gb skhynix 1Rx8 PC3L module) The thing to watch out for is the small bridge connector from the power switch to the motherboard. I did not see it when raising the motherboard to disconnect the keyboard and touchpad cables and it popped off onto the floor and was not discovered missing until reassembly. Runs appreciably faster with a used 250gb samsung 860 evo ssd, and the extra ram. I know this is an old thread, just wanted folks to know that the upgrade is possible and makes a difference.