A SO-DIMM is a compact type of unbuffered memory module used as a computer’s main memory, especially in laptops. The name describes the module’s form factor—not its DDR generation or whether it will work in a particular computer.
What does SO-DIMM stand for?
JEDEC expands the term as “Unbuffered Small Outline Dual In-Line Memory Module.” In everyday use, SO-DIMM refers to a compact system-memory module designed for computers with limited internal space. JEDEC describes DDR5 SODIMMs as main memory for computers, laptops and other systems.
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In JEDEC’s DDR4 SPD terminology, the DDR4 SO-DIMM entry has a nominal width of 68.60 mm. That measurement describes the cited DDR4 entry, not every module called a SO-DIMM.
Is SO-DIMM the same thing as DDR4?
No. SO-DIMM identifies a module’s form factor, while DDR4 identifies a memory generation. A SO-DIMM can use a particular DDR generation, but the form-factor name alone does not tell you which one it is.
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- ECC Type = Non-ECC, Form Factor = SODIMM, Pin Count = 262-Pin, PC Speed = PC5-44800, Voltage = 1.1V, Rank And Configuration = 1Rx8
The physical and electrical specifications differ between generations. The cited JEDEC DDR4 specification describes a 260-pin, 1.2 V SO-DIMM; JEDEC’s DDR5 SODIMM listing describes a 262-pin, 1.1 V module. These are generation-specific examples, not a complete guide to every memory specification.
How can you tell whether a SO-DIMM will work in your computer?
Check the computer maker’s specifications for the exact model before choosing a module. Confirm these details against the module you are considering:
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- [Specs] DDR3L / DDR3 1600MHz PC3L-12800 / PC3-12800 204-Pin Unbuffered Non ECC 1.35V CL11 Dual Rank 2Rx8 based 512x8
- [Size] Module Size: 16GB KIT(2x8GB Modules) Package: 2x8GB
- [Voltage] JEDEC standard 1.35V, this is a dual voltage piece and can operate at 1.35V or 1.5V
- [Compatibility] Compatible with DDR3 Laptop / Notebook PC, Mini PC, All in one Device
- [Color] PCB Color is green
- DDR generation: Match the computer’s supported generation, such as DDR4 or DDR5. The generation names identify different memory technologies, not interchangeable SO-DIMM options.
- Form factor and pin count: Confirm that the computer takes SO-DIMMs and that the module’s pin count matches its supported memory type.
- Voltage: Check the electrical specification listed for the computer and the module’s generation.
- Capacity and speed: Stay within the capacity and speed supported by the computer maker for your specific model.
A SO-DIMM label by itself does not establish compatibility. The cited standards illustrate differences between DDR4 and DDR5, but they do not determine which module works in any particular computer.
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- [Specs] DDR3L / DDR3 1600MHz PC3L-12800 / PC3-12800 204-Pin Unbuffered Non ECC 1.35V CL11 Dual Rank 2Rx8 based 512x8
- [Size] Module Size: 8GB Package: 1x8GB
- [Voltage] JEDEC standard 1.35V, this is a dual voltage piece and can operate at 1.35V or 1.5V
- [Compatibility] Compatible with DDR3 Laptop / Notebook PC, Mini PC, All in one Device
- [Color] PCB Color is Green
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- 16GB Module ( 1x 16GB ) | DDR4 3200 MHz ( PC4-25600 / PC4-3200AA )
- DDR4 SO-DIMM ( 260-Pin ) | Non-ECC Unbuffered | 2Rx8 - Dual Rank x8 | 1.2V - DDR4 Standard Voltage
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- ECC Type = Non-ECC, Form Factor = SODIMM, Pin Count = 260-pin, PC Speed = PC4-25600, Voltage = 1.2V, Rank and Configuration = 1Rx8 or 2Rx8
What the name tells you—and what it does not
- It tells you: The module is a compact, unbuffered dual in-line memory module intended for system memory.
- It does not tell you: The DDR generation, pin count, voltage, supported capacity or speed for a specific computer.
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