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I have a pair of DDR3 SODIMM RAM modules in my laptop, and I want to replace the 2GB for a 4GB that is compatible. So far I haven't been able to find an exact match but I found a very similar with a PC3L label instead of PC3. Can they work together?

My DDR3 SODIMM RAM:

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Memory module in question:

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Installed RAM: 4GB DDR3 2Rx8 PC3 12800S 11 10 F2

Matching RAM: 4GB DDR3 2Rx8 PC3L 12800S 11 10 F3

Laptop: Toshiba Satellite L645D-S4036

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What you are referring to is related to DDR3 memory standardization.

  • DDR3 or PC3 is the Standard Voltage memory module that operates at 1.50V (JEDEC compliant)
  • DDR3L or PC3L is the Low Voltage memory module that operates at 1.35V (JEDEC compliant)
  • DDR3U or PC3U is the Ultra Low Voltage memory module that operates at 1.25V (still not JEDEC compliant)

Most, if not all PC3L modules can support 1.50V operation, so there shouldn't be any issues in your case

Edit. I've just checked in the Samsung catalogue, and I can confirm now that your Samsung M471B5273CH0 PC3L is dual voltage module. Enjoy :)

enter image description here

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    Is the converse true? My laptop has 4GB "PC3L" - 12800S RAM. Can I install 4GB "PC3" 12800S RAM to upgrade to 8GB ?
    – Navigator
    Jul 10, 2014 at 8:02
  • Yes without any issue if your laptop mobbo supports the 1.5V on memory
    – Nikola Dimitrijevic
    Jul 10, 2014 at 15:49
  • There's this excellent article on memory compatibility at Dell dell.com/support/article/us/en/19/SLN153768/en
    – Marcin Gil
    Jul 20, 2016 at 6:29
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    @Navigator Did your PC3 ram work fine together with PC3L ram? I am using a hp laptop and it came with 1Rx8 PC3L ram installed; I just ordered a 1Rx8 PC3 ram and hope they will be compatible with each other.
    – dragonfly02
    Jan 22, 2018 at 10:01
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    @DavidRefoua no, it didn't work. In the end I think it's impossible to tell by yourself whether a ram is going to work on your laptop/pc. I had to use a website that sells ram and only buy the ones it says it will definitely work on my pc.
    – dragonfly02
    Mar 14, 2019 at 14:50

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