Upgrade RAM in your ThinkPad X1 Extreme (Gen 2) with our guide

The second-generation ThinkPad X1 Extreme from Lenovo is the right laptop if you’re in search of a powerful 15-inch Ultrabook with dedicated graphics, 9th Gen Intel hardware, and up to a 4K OLED touch display. It includes two slots for SODIMM RAM, which is easily accessible for upgrades after purchase. Whether you saved some money at checkout or now realize you need extra RAM for the job, follow this guide for everything you need to know about upgrading RAM in the ThinkPad X1 Extreme (Gen 2).

Hardware to get the job done

How to upgrade RAM in your Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme (Gen 2)

Note: Before beginning any upgrades on a PC, it’s a good idea to back up your data in the unlikely event something should go wrong. You’ll also want to ensure you’re not working in a static-filled environment, as it can cause damage to a PC’s internal hardware. Consider investing in an anti-static wristband to avoid unnecessary damage.

From the factory, Lenovo will add up to 64GB of SODIMM DDR4 RAM to your ThinkPad X1 Extreme, but it’s going to cost you nearly $1,100 more than if you check out with the baseline 8GB of RAM. That’s nearly the cost of an entirely separate laptop, so upgrading yourself is a worthwhile way to spend your time.

For the upgrade we recommend checking out the Crucial SODIMM DDR4-2666MHz RAM. It’s reliable, well-priced, and widely available. An extra 8GB costs about $30 while dual 32GB sticks for a total of 64GB of RAM costs about $324. That’s a far more digestible price, and you can also choose from single 16GB and 32GB sticks to get exactly how much you need. Just don’t buy more than 64GB, which is the max allowable RAM Lenovo recommends.

Once you have the upgrade RAM at home and ready to install, be sure to back up any important or sensitive data. This is a fairly straightforward process, but it’s better to be safe. Power down the X1 Extreme, make sure your workspace is well-lit, and get ready to tackle the steps below.

1. Unscrew the seven fasteners on the bottom of the laptop.

   

   Source: Windows Central

2. Pry up the back panel using a pry tool. Start at one corner and work your way around, loosening as you go.

   

   Source: Windows Central

3. Fold back the cover on top of the first RAM slot. Do not attempt to remove it completely.

   

   Source: Windows Central

4. Unclip the silver arms on either side of the RAM module by applying pressure. The RAM should pop up and remain at an angle.

   

   Source: Windows Central

5. Remove the RAM from the slot by carefully pulling it away.

   

   Source: Windows Central

6. Insert the new RAM at about a 45-degree angle. Notice it is keyed and should only fit one way.

   

   Source: Windows Central

7. Press down on the RAM until the silver arms click back into place, securing the module.
8. If you’re upgrading both modules, repeat steps 3 to 7 for the other RAM.

   

   Source: Windows Central

9. Replace the bottom panel of the laptop by applying pressure. You should hear it click back into place.

   

   Source: Windows Central

10. Screw in the seven fasteners on the bottom of the laptop.

    

    Source: Windows Central

You should now be free to power on your ThinkPadX1 Extreme to ensure the RAM upgrade went according to plan. You can check to see if it’s been recognized by your system with the following steps.

1. Right-click the Start button.
2. Click System.

   

   Source: Windows Central

You should now be able to see the total amount of installed RAM in the Device specifications section. As long as it matches the total amount you have installed, your upgrade was a success.

Our top hardware picks

As far as upgrade RAM goes, we’ve had plenty of success with Crucial hardware. It’s reliable, available in a number of sizes, and quite affordable while still offering excellent performance.

Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Extreme (Gen 2) is one of the best laptops we used in 2019, and it’s a great choice for anyone who wants a 15-inch device absolutely loaded with performance hardware and extra security features.