LENOVO ThinkPad X240 RAM upgrade specifications

LENOVO X240 LENOVO X240 LENOVO X240 LENOVO X240 LENOVO X240

The Lenovo ThinkPad X240 supports DDR3L-SDRAM memory upgrades through two SO-DIMM slots. Maximum RAM capacity reaches 8 GB total. Compatible memory operates at 1600 MHz frequency. Upgrade specifications indicate SO-DIMM form factor modules are required for compatibility with this X-series model. Current and expanded configurations utilize DDR3L-SDRAM technology across available memory slots.

Memory Upgrade Specifications

SpecificationValue
Memory slots2x SO-DIMM
Form factorSO-DIMM
Memory typeDDR3L-SDRAM
Frequency1600 MHz
Maximum RAM8 GB
Voltage1.35V (Low Voltage)
Number of pins204-pin
InterfacePC3L
PC Speed RatingPC3L-1600 (PC3L-12800)
Bandwidth12.8 GB/s
Laptop Release date13 January 2018

Additional Notes

  • The presence of 2 physical slots combined with a capped threshold of 8 GB restricts the hardware to 4 GB modules per channel for symmetrical performance.
  • Operating on the DDR3L standard indicates a low voltage requirement of 1.35 V which is mandatory for motherboard stability and prevents thermal damage associated with older 1.5 V modules.
  • Memory bandwidth is limited to single channel throughput if only 1 slot is populated in the LENOVO ThinkPad X240 regardless of the total capacity installed.
  • The chipset lacks support for high density 8 GB or 16 GB single sticks forcing a hardware recognized limit that cannot be bypassed via software or BIOS updates.
  • Installing modules with frequencies higher than 1600 MHz results in automatic downclocking to match the integrated memory controller cycles.
  • Physical access to the SO-DIMM slots requires the removal of the external battery and the entire base chassis cover which may involve plastic clips prone to fatigue.
  • The architecture relies on non ECC unbuffered memory meaning server grade modules or registered RAM will cause a failure to boot.