4GB RAM Laptop PC or memory sticks?

[jjlucash]

I've been doing some research, but I'm still uncertain on what to do. My 7 year-old laptop PC is on its last legs, partly because of Ableton's use of the RAM and hard drive (only 1GB of RAM with a 1.40 GHz processor). I've been shopping around for a laptop of at least 4GB, Ableton Live 8's minimum requirement, but I've recently learned about RAM sticks.

Which is the better investment: $350 on a 4GB RAM laptop or buy a cheaper one and get RAM sticks?

[jjlucash]

*bump*

[nebulae]

If you're about to get a new laptop, get the most ram you can afford. Windows 7 likes lots of ram. 4gb is fine, but 6-8gb are better.

[Piplodocus]

If your computer's that old you may be limited how much you can fit in, and also if it's an old type may be expensive relative to the amount you get for the money.

Buying a new laptop would probably be a lot better value if you can afford it.

[Khazul]

A memory stick is not going to help with runnign live atyt all - ie it will not result in more memory available to live. A fast memory stick can help with overall machine performance when all of its internal memory is in use by applications (office type apps etc) and so its paging quite a bit.

Time for a new laptop - and definately recommend one with 8GB, or at least that is expandable to 8GB later. If short of cash - go for fastest CPU you can afford, then add more memory later.