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5 Steps to Install RAM on a PC Motherboard

+ Which DIMM Slots to Use for Multiple Modules (Dual or Quad Channel Memory)

1. Locate Correct Slot for Installing Single Channel RAM

The slots/sockets on the motherboard where you install RAM modules are technically called DIMM (Dual Inline Memory Module) slots. This first slot should be labelled “DIMMA1” on the motherboard in tiny writing. 

If you're just installing a single memory module, check the small labeling printed on your actual motherboard to locate socket 1 for your particular board - it could be referred to as socket 0. A single RAM stick will almost always go into the first slot, however it will work no matter which slot you place it in. If you want to make sure, check your motherboard's manual to see if it mentions anything about which socket to place your stick in. If your manual doesn't mention anything (entirely possible) just install your single RAM module in the slot closest to your CPU.

2. Locate Correct Slots for Installing Dual Channel RAM

If you're installing two RAM modules (highly recommended for gaming), and your motherboard has 4 memory slots (also recommended so you have 2 spare slots for a future RAM upgrade), you likely have to install them in either slots 1 and 3 or slots 2 and 4 (and not directly next to each other).

You can't just install dual channel RAM in any slots, otherwise they either might not perform optimally or might not work at all. Don't worry too much if you make a mistake of using the wrong slot, as it won't damage anything and you can just change it later, but it's easy to know which slots to use as it should be printed on your actual motherboard next to the slots (otherwise refer to your motherboard manual).

For example, on our MSI B450M Pro-VDH Max motherboard, it shows which slots to popular first:

3. Unlock the Slot/s on Motherboard

Before grabbing your memory, you'll need to unlock a small clip (or two) on the motherboard's memory socket. Depending on the motherboard, each memory socket will either have a single clip you must unlock, or there will be two clips to unlock on either end of the socket. To unlock the clip/s simply push it outwards. It may require a firm little push, but don't use too much force in case you're pushing the wrong area of the socket.

4. Insert the RAM Module/s

If you haven't already done so, remove your RAM from the box. If your RAM modules has exposed circuitry (the green bits) like the module in the second photo below, only hold it by the edges and don't touch the sides where the circuitry is. Also avoid touching the connector cutouts/pins on the bottom of the module. 

But for RAM like our Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 modules that are covered and don't have exposed green circuity (in the photo directly below), it's fine to hold them on their sides.

There's only one way around to install a RAM module into a slot. To know which way around that is, match up the bottom connectors (the cutouts/pins) on the RAM module to the cutouts on the slot:

Once you've confirmed the proper way around, gently insert the module into the slot at a slight angle:

Lower the other end in and push the stick firmly into place by pressing down on top of the module. Doing so might automatically snap the hinge/clip back into place (if that happens, don't worry because you've done it right).

To properly install the module all the way in, you might need to give it a firm little press from the top, but never use too much force because it shouldn't require a crazy amount of force if you're aligned it properly. To properly seat it all the way, it might be easier to press down on either side one at a time:

5. Confirm the Slot/s is Locked

Once you've installed your RAM properly, you should be able to fairly easily lock the clip/s on the motherboard socket/s back into place (if the clip didn't automatically lock itself - depends on the motherboard). Now, simply repeat this process for any other RAM sticks you're installing, and that's pretty much it for installing memory. Definitely one of the easiest, quickest parts to install in a computer without a doubt. There's really nothing that can go too wrong with installing RAM.

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FAQ

Is installing DDR4 and DDR5 memory the same?

Yes, installing RAM is the same process no matter what type of memory you're using. At the end of the day, RAM is always just going to be a simple horizontal stick that you slot into place. But do remember that DDR4 and DDR5 are NOT interchangeable as they have different physical sizes. So, while the steps on how to install RAM is the same for both DDR4 and DD5, you cannot install a DDR4 module in a DDR5 motherboard (or vice versa).

Related: DDR4 vs DDR5 Explained

Does it matter which slots you put your RAM in?

For single channel memory? No. For installing dual-channel memory? Yes. With 2 or more RAM sticks to install, there are certain sockets you want to install them in to guarantee they perform at their maximum speed and stability.

Can you mix different RAM brands?

Chances are you'll be fine with mixing memory modules from different manufacturers/brands, however only if you use sticks that have the same speed AND timings. But in saying that, mixing RAM brands isn't guaranteed to work and it might cause issues if you get unlucky, so it's generally not recommended to do if you can avoid it.

Is it better to populate all RAM slots on a motherboard?

Should you try and fill all your memory slots? Generally speaking, it doesn't matter to system performance whether you fill all available RAM slots on your motherboard or you leave some free. The only reason you might want to ensure you fill the slots is for aesthetics purposes if you feel your build would look a tad bare with a bunch of empty slots. The plus of leaving some RAM slots free in your new PC build means you can add a RAM upgrade later on.

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