Does X201 work with PC3-12800 Ram? If so, which types?

[xsixt]

I have to switch some memory between machines, and want to know if I could run PC3-12800 RAM in a X201 - the module would be a 4GB Hynix which is a genuine lenovo FRU.

Lenovo states PC3-10600 is the max supported speed, but I have seen some threads with claims of 12800 working, but without any hard evidence of what particular brands/modules...

Can anyone shed some light?

Thanks a lot.

[jdrou]

In general, any faster DDR3 memory should work; it will just run at the max speed the laptop supports.
There are some exceptions I know of with very low-latency modules; some laptops can't adjust to their timings. People have gotten around that by modifying the SPD chip on the module. Pretty sure that shouldn't be an issue with Lenovo parts.

[Tasurinchi]

In my experience this generation ThinkPad is very picky with DDR3-12800 modules.

I tried Corsair Vengeance, Hynix and Elpida modules in my X201 (all 12800) and they never worked, I tried it in three X201's (I had similar experiences with T410, T510 and W510). Although I read some users managed to get some RAM working, I can't recall which modules though...

I'd say you give it a try, it won't break anything, just make sure the AC adapter and battery are disconnected before swapping the RAM.

[thinkpadcollection]

Usually make sure this is 16 chips module type. This is classed as 2Rx8 configuration.

Cheers, thinkpadcollection

[hengster]

Tested on my X201s by myself, which would be the same for your X201.
(1600MHz = PC3-12800)

DOES NOT WORK - Kingston HyperX 1600MHz DDR3L 4GB x2, CL9 1.35V, these are 1Rx8 (single-ranked, double-sided)
DOES NOT WORK - Corsair Vengeance 1600MHz DDR3L 4GB x2, CL9 1.35V, these are 1Rx8 (single-ranked, double-sided)
WORKS - Samsung 1333MHz DDR3 4GB x2, CL9 1.5V, these are 2Rx8 (dual rank, double-sided)
WORKS - Crucial Ballistix 1600MHz DDR3L 4GB x2, CL9 1.35V, these are 2Rx8 (dual rank, double-sided)

We have a list building up here too if you are keen: http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?f=43&t=118247

[xsixt]

Ahhh, excellent folks - just the ticket!

Usually make sure this is 16 chips module type. This is classed as 2Rx8 configuration.

Cheers, thinkpadcollection

Thanks for this - I have 2Rx8 in most of my thinkpads (stock) so I will stick with this.

I
I tried Corsair Vengeance, Hynix and Elpida modules in my X201 (all 12800) and they never worked, I tried it in three X201's (I had similar experiences with T410, T510 and W510). Although I read some users managed to get some RAM working, I can't recall which modules though...

Tested on my X201s by myself, which would be the same for your X201.
(1600MHz = PC3-12800)

DOES NOT WORK - Kingston HyperX 1600MHz DDR3L 4GB x2, CL9 1.35V, these are 1Rx8 (single-ranked, double-sided)
DOES NOT WORK - Corsair Vengeance 1600MHz DDR3L 4GB x2, CL9 1.35V, these are 1Rx8 (single-ranked, double-sided)
WORKS - Samsung 1333MHz DDR3 4GB x2, CL9 1.5V, these are 2Rx8 (dual rank, double-sided)
WORKS - Crucial Ballistix 1600MHz DDR3L 4GB x2, CL9 1.35V, these are 2Rx8 (dual rank, double-sided)

We have a list building up here too if you are keen: http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?f=43&t=118247

Brilliant stuff! I will try Hynix 1600Mhz DDR 4GB (x1), CL11 1.35V 2Rx8 to be exact. If it works I will purchase a matching stick. If not I better go with tried and tested!

[jdrou]

Samsung M471B5273DH0-CH9 works @533-7-7-7-20 timings [PC3-10600 2Rx8]
Hynix HMT351S6EFR8C-PB works @533-7-7-7-19 timings [PC3-12800 2Rx8] (these are pulled from a Dell laptop)
Kingston HyperX PnP KHX1600C9S3P1K2/8G works @533-6-6-6-18 timings [PC3-12800 2Rx8]
Nanya NT4GC64B8HG0NS-DI works @533-7-7-7-19 timings [PC3-12800 2Rx8]