Upgrade Your Dell Inspiron 3558 RAM for Optimal Performance

Are you a user of a Dell Inspiron 3558 with 4GB of DDR3L-1600MHz RAM, and considering upgrading to 8GB or even 12GB?

Understanding Your Current Setup

Your Dell Inspiron 3558 initially came equipped with 4GB of RAM, but you're looking to increase this for better performance. Before getting started, it's crucial to understand your current RAM specifications. Your laptop is currently running on a 4GB DDR3L-1600MHz RAM chip. Upgrading from 4GB to 8GB or even 12GB can significantly enhance the performance of your laptop.

Checking for Compatibility

To ensure compatibility, the first step is to check whether your laptop supports upgrader RAM. The Dell Inspiron 3558 only supports a maximum of 8GB of RAM. This means you cannot upgrade to 12GB. However, you can easily upgrade to 8GB if needed. Before you proceed, make sure you find out the exact type of RAM your laptop is using.

Upgrading to 8GB or 12GB RAM

If you wish to upgrade your RAM to 8GB or 12GB, make sure to order a compatible RAM stick or a pair of RAM sticks that match the frequency and type of your current RAM. Specifically, for the Dell Inspiron 3558, you should look for a DDR3L-1600MHz or a DDR4-2400MHz module (depending on the laptop's other capabilities). Originally, your laptop used DDR3L-1600MHz, so check if it can support DDR4 for a smoother transition.

Upgrading the RAM

Once you have your new RAM stick(s), follow these steps to upgrade:

unscrew the back cover of your laptop placing it on a clean surface. locate the RAM slot and take out the existing memory module gently. insert the new RAM stick into the slot, ensuring it clicks into place. double-check the installation, and carefully screw the back cover back in.

It's important to follow these steps carefully to avoid damaging your laptop. If you're uncertain about the process, consider watching a tutorial on YouTube or seeking professional help.

Consider Alternative Upgrades

While upgrading RAM can be beneficial, remember that the processor also plays a significant role in your laptop's performance. For a Dell Inspiron 3558, if you need a more substantial upgrade, consider replacing the hard drive (HDD) with a solid-state drive (SSD). This can significantly enhance your laptop's performance, as SSDs offer much faster read and write speeds than a traditional HDD.

Additionally, if your laptop is experiencing slow performance due to the HDD, consider replacing it. You can boost your laptop's performance to levels that you might not have imagined by making this switch.

For your Dell Inspiron 3558, if upgrading the RAM to 8GB is the most practical solution, stick with reputable brands like Samsung or Kingston for their affordability and durability. If you find that RAM alone isn't providing the boost you need, switching to an SSD might be the better option for overall performance improvements.