Can I use 1600Mhz RAM in my 1333Mhz rated Thinkpad T420?

[9littlebees]

I want to upgrade the RAM in my T420 to 16GB (to improve performance hampered by integrated graphics and low/mid-range CPU), and the frequency for this laptop is rated at 1333Mhz.

Now, finding paired 16GB SO-DIMM chips at this frequency is no easy task, and I have found an affordable set (link) of 1600Mhz chips.

I've been building my own desktop PCs for the past 6 years or so, but never considered using RAM with a higher frequency before.

My question is, can I use these 1600Mhz chips in this laptop? Would they work straight out of the gate, or would I need to tweak something in the BIOS?

EDIT: The processor is an Intel Core i5-2520 2.5Ghz, if that makes a difference.

 

[Legohouse]

Hello,

Your laptop doesn't support 16GB of memory. Maximum it takes is 8GB ( 2 x 4GB). Also 1600MHz is a gamble as the max speed recommended is 1333MHz. In theory the 1600MHz memory should work but it's more not likely. Hope that answers your question.

 

[9littlebees]

Your laptop doesn't support 16GB of memory. Maximum it takes is 8GB ( 2 x 4GB). Also 1600MHz is a gamble as the max speed recommended is 1333MHz. In theory the 1600MHz memory should work but it's more not likely. Hope that answers your question.

Despite the Lenovo specifications on their website, there are loads of reports of people doing this on the T420. The processor supports up to 16GB.

Anyway, I'm more interested in the frequency, not capacity. Why should it work in theory? Can you elaborate?

 

[Legohouse]

Despite the Lenovo specifications on their website, there are loads of reports of people doing this on the T420. The processor supports up to 16GB.

Anyway, I'm more interested in the frequency, not capacity. Why should it work in theory? Can you elaborate?

Because in theory, any DDR3 module regardless of the frequency should fit in the slot but that doesn't mean it will work for sure. In your case, 1600MHz is the next speed after 1333MHz in some cases it will work but it's not guaranteed, there's a chance. So you will have to take a gamble. As for as 16GB working effectively I am not sure, that's another gamble. Good luck