How to Upgrade Notebook Storage and RAM for Better Performance

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If you’ve been using your laptop for a long time and want to boost its performance, upgrading the storage and RAM can make a big difference. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide the best options for your Windows 11 system.

First, your current setup includes a 1TB 5400 RPM SATA HDD. The good news is, based on the information you received, your system supports replacing this drive with a 2.5-inch SATA III SSD. Upgrading to an SSD can significantly improve speed and responsiveness. Just confirm your laptop allows for easy replacement—typically, it’s quite straightforward if you have access panels or can open the back cover.

Before choosing an SSD, consider brands like Samsung, Western Digital, or Crucial, which are known for reliable performance and compatibility. SSDs with at least 6Gb/s SATA III interface will give you faster data transfer speeds. The maximum storage you can add depends on your system’s hardware specifications, but most laptops list the maximum upgrade capacity in their manual or support pages. If your manual isn’t available, check online models or contact customer support.

Another option is adding a PCIe NVMe SSD as a second drive. These drives are much faster than SATA SSDs and can be added if your system has an M.2 slot. The maximum capacity here often depends on what the slot supports—common sizes are 1TB or more. Using an NVMe drive alongside your existing HDD can give a huge boost in performance for active applications and data access.

If you prefer, you can replace the existing HDD with a larger SSD instead of adding a second drive, or even do both if your laptop supports multiple storage devices. But generally, adding an NVMe SSD is recommended for the best speed boost, especially if your goal is to maximize performance without replacing the existing drive.

Regarding RAM, upgrading from 8GB to 16GB can improve multitasking and overall smoothness. Most laptops support up to 16GB or 32GB of RAM, but verify your laptop’s maximum capacity. Look for reputable brands like Corsair, Kingston, or Crucial for reliable performance.

In summary, upgrading to an SSD—either SATA or NVMe—can help your system run faster and more smoothly. Pair that with increasing your RAM to at least 16GB for better multitasking. Always double-check the maximum supported upgrades for your device, and choose trusted brands for the best results.