Don't buy soldered RAM if you plan to keep the laptop past 4 years.

Probably not worth it. The risk of needing more RAM later is too high, and you can’t upgrade.

Here’s the thing: 4 years is a long time in tech. When you buy that laptop, 16GB might feel plenty. By year three or four, web apps, OS updates, and whatever you’re doing will quietly push you over the edge. You can’t just pop in another stick with soldered RAM — you’re stuck with what you ordered.

If you absolutely love that ultrabook and have money to future-proof (32GB now), then go for it. But most people don’t know exactly what they’ll need that far out. A laptop with socketed RAM gives you flexibility for fifty bucks later. Soldered RAM means you either overpay now or regret later.

Buy the machine that lets you change your mind.