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Dell Precision 3551 — RAM, SSD & Charger Compatibility Guide (2020)

Dell Dell Precision 3551 (2020) Specifications

The Dell Dell Precision 3551 (2020) is a mobile workstation for creative professionals and power users. This guide covers RAM, SSD, charger compatibility, and upgrade paths for this model. For a comprehensive overview of all Dell upgradeable models, visit the Dell Laptop Upgrades hub.

ComponentSpecification
Processori5-10400H / i7-10850H + Quadro P620
RAMDDR4, 2 slots (upgradeable)
Max RAM64GB
StorageM.2 2280 NVMe PCIe Gen4, 1 slot
Charger130W Barrel
Ports2x Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB 3.2, 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x SD
Display15.6″ FHD IPS
Weight2.05 kg (4.52 lbs)

Memory Upgrade Path

DDR4 and DDR5 RAM memory modules for laptop upgrades
DDR4 and DDR5 RAM memory modules for laptop upgrades

The Dell Precision 3551 features 2 SO-DIMM slots for DDR4 RAM, allowing upgrades up to 64GB. Both slots are user-accessible, and the upgrade process is straightforward.

Recommended DDR4 RAM Upgrades:

  • Corsair Vengeance DDR4 SO-DIMM — Reliable DDR4 laptop memory with wide compatibility.
  • Kingston Fury Impact DDR4 SO-DIMM — Compact high-performance DDR4 for laptops.
  • Crucial DDR4 SO-DIMM — Affordable DDR4 with solid performance.

Storage Expansion

Portable external SSD storage drive
Portable external SSD storage drive

The Dell Precision 3551 uses a standard M.2 2280 NVMe SSD with a NVMe PCIe Gen4 interface. The single M.2 slot supports drives up to 2TB.

Recommended M.2 2280 SSDs:

  • Samsung 990 Pro NVMe 2280 — Flagship NVMe SSD with exceptional speeds.
  • WD Black SN850X 2280 — High-performance NVMe with excellent sustained writes.
  • Crucial P5 Plus NVMe 2280 — Excellent value NVMe with strong real-world performance.

Power Delivery & Charging

The Dell Precision 3551 uses a 130W Barrel charger. This uses a proprietary barrel connector. Use the original charger or a compatible replacement rated for the same wattage.


Port & Docking Capabilities

Connectivity: 2x Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB 3.2, 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x SD

The Thunderbolt 4 ports provide fast external storage and high-bandwidth peripherals. Consider a Thunderbolt dock like the CalDigit TS4 or Belkin Thunderbolt 4 Dock Pro for desktop expansion.


Upgrade Difficulty & Tools Required

The Dell Precision 3551 has a difficulty rating of 3/5 for upgrades (5 = easiest). The upgrade process is moderate — requires careful handling of bottom panel clips.

Tools needed:

  • Phillips screwdriver (M2.5 or similar)
  • Plastic spudger or pry tool (for bottom panel clips)
  • ESD wrist strap (optional but recommended)

We recommend backing up your data and consulting the official service manual before opening the chassis.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I upgrade the RAM in the Dell Dell Precision 3551?

Yes, the Dell Precision 3551 has 2 SO-DIMM slots for user-upgradeable DDR4 memory, supporting up to 64GB.

What is the maximum RAM for the Dell Precision 3551?

The Dell Precision 3551 supports up to 64GB of DDR4 memory.

Can I add a second SSD to the Dell Precision 3551?

The Dell Precision 3551 has 1 M.2 slot. You can replace the existing SSD with a larger drive.

What charger does the Dell Precision 3551 need?

The Dell Precision 3551 uses a 130W Barrel charger.

Is the Dell Precision 3551 easy to upgrade?

The Dell Precision 3551 has a difficulty rating of 3/5. Some care needed with bottom panel clips.


Recommended Products

These are the products we recommend based on this guide. All links go to Amazon UK where you can check current prices and availability.

ProductWhy We Recommend ItAmazon UK
Corsair Vengeance DDR4 SO-DIMMReliable DDR4 laptop memory with wide compatibility.View on Amazon UK
Kingston Fury Impact DDR4 SO-DIMMCompact high-performance DDR4 for laptops.View on Amazon UK
Crucial DDR4 SO-DIMMAffordable DDR4 with solid performance.View on Amazon UK
Samsung 990 Pro NVMe 2280Flagship NVMe SSD with exceptional speeds.View on Amazon UK
WD Black SN850X 2280High-performance NVMe with excellent sustained writes.View on Amazon UK
Crucial P5 Plus NVMe 2280Excellent value NVMe with strong real-world performance.View on Amazon UK

Prices and availability may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Dell Upgrade Guides

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