I have an older laptop that has a single RAM slot and is currently running a 1.5V DDR3 stick. I'm looking to upgrade to 8GB, but most available options are DDR3L (1.35V). They don't clearly state whether they're dual voltage compatible. I did see a 1.5V stick from an unknown Chinese brand, but I'm hesitant to buy it. My main questions are:
1. Will DDR3L RAM work in a laptop designed for DDR3?
2. Are there any compatibility issues I should be concerned about, like potential performance drops or damage to the new RAM? Thanks!
2 Answers
Most DDR3L RAM is capable of functioning at 1.5V with no issues; the chips are rated for it. However, there's a theoretical chance that some DDR3L modules might not work correctly at this voltage, even though they shouldn't be damaged by it. So, generally, you should be fine!
Yes, DDR3L RAM will work in systems that originally used DDR3, but not the other way around. So you should be good to go!
Should I be concerned about using 1.35V RAM in a 1.5V laptop? Will it be safe in the long run?
Would it be safer to just go with the 1.5V stick from that unknown brand, then?