The updated Legion Y700 series from Lenovo includes the 15- and 17-inch Y740, which both feature NVIDIA RTX graphics (GPU) options, 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8750H processors (CPU), and upgradeable dual-channel SODIMM RAM. The RAM modules are in the same spot in both laptop sizes, and the process is essentially the same. If you're looking to add more or different RAM, we've laid out the entire process right here for both laptops.
Hardware to get the job done
- Compatible SODIMM RAM: Crucial DDR4 (From $49 at Amazon)
- Prevent damage: Rosewill anti-static wristband ($6 at Amazon)
- All required tools: ORIA PC toolkit ($33 at Amazon)
- 15-inch gaming laptop: Lenovo Legion Y740 15 (From $1,596 at Lenovo)
- 17-inch gaming laptop: Lenovo Legion Y740 17 (From $1,840 at Lenovo)
How to upgrade the RAM in your Lenovo Legion Y740
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.
Both the 15- and 17-inch Legion Y740 come in a few different configurations you can choose at checkout, though all models should come with at least 16GB of dual-channel DDR4 RAM. This means that you have two slots to work with, allowing you to upgrade one stick or both for some extra performance.
The Crucial DDR4-2666 MHz RAM we recommend in this guide is reliable and competitively priced, and there should be no compatibility issues with your system. Back up your PC's data, set up a clean workspace, and proceed with the steps below to upgrade the RAM in your Legion Y740. In this case, we're using the smaller 15-inch Y740 model. Be sure to power off your laptop before removing the back panel.
- Unscrew the 11 fasteners on the back plate of the Legion Y740 using a Philips-head screwdriver. The aluminum panel and the plastic venting come off as one piece.
- Pry up the bottom panel using a pry tool or your thumb. Start with the front corners and work your way slowly around the entire panel to prevent damage.
- Remove the aluminum RAM shield with a pry tool or your thumb. There are no screws holding it in place, and the pressure clips will release with not much force required.
- Slide the side clips off of the first stick of RAM. Upon releasing both clips, the RAM should pop up and remain at an angle.
- Remove the RAM from the slot by carefully pulling it away.
- Slide the side clips off of the second stick of RAM. Upon releasing both clips, the RAM should pop up and remain at an angle.
- Remove the RAM from the slot by carefully pulling it away.
- Insert the new RAM into the first slot. Notice that it is keyed and will only fit one way.
- Press down on the RAM so that the side clips click into place. This ensures the RAM doesn't come loose in future operation.
- Insert the new RAM into the second slot. It is also keyed and will only fit one way.
- Press down on the RAM so that the side clips click into place.
- Replace the aluminum RAM shield by applying pressure. Ensure that all pressure clips are gripping the edge of the shield to keep it from coming loose.
- Replace the bottom panel of the laptop, applying pressure around the edges and in the center. You should hear the panel snap into place when it's seated properly.
- Screw in the 11 fasteners on the back panel.
You can now power on your Legion Y740 and verify that the RAM you've installed is recognized by the system.
- Right-click the Start button.
- Click System.
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
It's not the only option when buying RAM for your laptop, but the Crucial SODIMM RAM we recommend is reliable, competitively priced, and will work in your system. It's available in single 8 GB sticks all the way up to dual 16 GB sticks for a 32 GB total.
Reliable and affordable
If you're looking for extra RAM for your Legion Y740, we've had much success with Crucial. It's competitively priced and reliable, checking two of the big boxes when it comes to buying hardware for your PC.
The smaller 15-inch Legion Y740 is an outstanding gaming laptop that stays cool but offers impressive performance. Get up to an RTX 2070 GPU and take advantage of RAM and storage upgrades to keep it relevant into the future.
Quiet, cool, and powerful
An RTX 2070 GPU and hexa-core Intel Core i7-8750H CPU doesn't keep this gaming laptop from running cool. It's all wrapped up in an aluminum chassis that is priced competitively.
If 15 inches just isn't enough screen space for your gaming needs, the 17-inch Legion Y740 should fit the bill. It's also available with the more powerful NVIDIA RTX 2080 GPU, and it also offers easy upgrades to storage and RAM.
Portable high-end gaming
Get ridiculous performance at a cost lower than much of the competition, all wrapped up in a mature aluminum chassis with programmable RGB keyboard and lighted exhaust vents.
Additional Equipment
ORIA PC toolkit ($33 at Amazon)
Having the proper gear to work on your PC will always make the job much easier. Here you get a plethora of tools contained in a portable case.
Rosewill anti-static wristband ($6 at Amazon)
Static electricity can damage sensitive PC parts, so remove the risk with an anti-static wristband. Fasten it around your wrist and clip it onto your PC for peace of mind.
