Check the manual before you buy a screwdriver.

Look up your exact laptop model’s service manual or a teardown video on YouTube. That will tell you if the RAM is soldered or socketed, and how many slots are available. If you can’t find the manual, check the specs on the manufacturer’s support page — it usually says “Maximum Memory” and whether it’s expandable.

The only tool you typically need is a small Phillips head screwdriver (size #0 or #00) and a plastic spudger to pry open the case without scratching anything. Anti-static wrist strap is nice but not essential if you touch a metal ground first. No, you don’t need a heat gun or a soldering iron unless you’re trying to replace soldered RAM, which I wouldn’t recommend.

If your laptop has soldered RAM, you’re out of luck — you can’t upgrade it. If it has SODIMM slots, buy the correct DDR generation (DDR3, DDR4, or DDR5) and match the speed. Don’t mix modules from different brands if you can avoid it.

Saving $30 on RAM isn’t worth damaging your motherboard — check first, then buy.