Key Specifications at a Glance

• Model: M474A1K43BB1-CTD

• Capacity: 8GB

• Type: DDR4 SDRAM

• Speed: 2666 MT/s (commonly labeled as PC4-21300, operating at 1.2V)

• Timing: Most likely CL19 (19-19-19-43 is common for such modules)

• Form Factor: 260-pin SO-DIMM (for laptops, mini-PCs, all-in-ones, etc.)

• Technology: Manufactured using Samsung’s 20nm-class or more advanced process, ensuring stable quality.

• Features: Non-ECC, Unbuffered, single-sided with 8 memory chips.

Primary Use Cases

1. Laptop Upgrades: Compatible with most laptops from 2016 onward that support DDR4, including Intel (6th Gen Core Skylake and later) and AMD (Ryzen series) platforms.

2. Mini-PCs / NUCs: Such as Intel NUC, ASUS PN series, etc.

3. All-in-One PCs: Many all-in-ones use laptop memory to save space.

4. Compatibility: As a Samsung original module, it offers excellent compatibility and is often used as an OEM component or preferred upgrade choice.

Crucial Checks Before Upgrading/Purchasing

To avoid incompatibility, ensure the following before upgrading or installing:

1. Check for Available Slots: Does your laptop have an extra memory slot? You can check by removing the back cover or using software like CPU-Z. If there’s only one slot and it’s occupied, you’ll need to replace the existing module or purchase a single larger-capacity module (e.g., 16GB).

2. Verify Compatibility:

   • Matching Existing Memory: For optimal dual-channel performance, it is highly recommended to install a module that is identical in brand, model, frequency, and timings to the existing memory in your laptop. If an exact match is unavailable, ensure the capacity, frequency (DDR4 2666), and voltage (1.2V) match. Differences in brand or timings may cause compatibility issues (failure to boot, blue screens).

   • Motherboard Compatibility: Older laptops may only support up to 2400MHz. A 2666MHz module will typically downclock to match, but verify that the motherboard supports DDR4.

3. Note the “-CTD” Suffix: This suffix indicates Samsung’s internal revision and batch information. For most users, the main model number M474A1K43BB1 is the primary focus. Finding an exact match is ideal when purchasing.

4. Purchase Channels: As this model has been discontinued for years, finding brand-new original modules through official retail channels (e.g., JD.com self-operated stores, Tmall brand stores) is very difficult. Most available units are used/refurbished or pulled from systems. Choose a reputable seller and carefully review buyer feedback.

Performance and Dual-Channel

• If you upgrade from a single 8GB module to two 8GB modules (16GB total) and install them correctly in separate channel slots, the system will operate in dual-channel mode. This significantly increases memory bandwidth, greatly benefiting integrated graphics performance (e.g., Intel HD Graphics, Iris Xe, or AMD Radeon Vega/RDNA Graphics) and improving performance in large software applications and multitasking.

How to Identify Your Laptop’s Existing Memory

Use the tool CPU-Z. Open it and check the “Memory” and “SPD” tabs.

• “Memory” Tab: Shows the current operating frequency (usually half the rated speed, e.g., 1333MHz for 2666MT/s) and timings.

• “SPD” Tab: Select the corresponding memory slot to view detailed manufacturer information, model number, maximum frequency, etc. Here, you can find the exact model matching your existing module.

Summary

The Samsung M474A1K43BB1-CTD is a reliable DDR4 2666 8GB laptop memory module, well-suited for upgrading compatible older or mainstream laptops to enhance multitasking capability and integrated graphics performance.

Recommended Steps:

1. Use CPU-Z to identify the exact model of the existing memory in your laptop.

2. If possible, prioritize purchasing an identical model.

3. If unavailable, when purchasing another brand’s module with the same capacity, frequency (DDR4 2666), and voltage (1.2V), choose a seller with good compatibility guarantees or a flexible return policy.