Upgrading the storage or RAM in a high-end gaming laptop can be straightforward if you know what to expect for each model. Below, we break down how to do it on the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18 with tips on screw locations, cable cautions, compatible SSD sizes, maximum memory, and warranty considerations.
Upgrading Storage/RAM on an ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18 Gaming Laptop (2023–2025)
Bottom cover and screw map
The Scar 18 (G834 2023/24) has 11 Phillips-head screws on the bottom panel. Notably, one of these is a captive pop-open screw – it won’t come out fully, but loosening it will lift the corner of the panel to help pry it off. (This captive screw is usually marked with a small keyboard icon and located in a corner; on Strix laptops it helps lever the panel open.) The screws have different lengths, so keep track of their positions.
On the 2024 Scar 18, start with the screws along the front edge (under the lightbar) and note that the three middle-front screws are shorter. Important: The Scar’s bottom panel has two ribbon cables attached for the RGB light bars. After unscrewing and unclipping the panel, don’t yank it off. Tilt it slowly and disconnect the ribbon cables from the motherboard (flip up the tiny latch on each connector) before fully removing the cover.
Internal layout and battery
Once inside, disconnect the battery first to be safe. The Scar 18’s large 90 Wh battery may have screws hidden under cable ribbons or SSDs, but generally it’s secured by a few Phillips screws. In some units, one fan might partially cover the battery connector – if so, unscrew that fan (a couple of screws) to reach the connector.
RAM upgrade
The Scar 18 has two DDR5 SO-DIMM slots (supporting up to 64GB DDR5-5600 in dual-channel). The slots are under a foil or aluminum shielding near the center. Carefully peel back or unscrew the shield to access them. Populate both slots for dual-channel; the official max is 64GB (2×32GB).
Interestingly, the Scar 18’s Intel HX CPU technically could support more memory (up to 192GB total), but since only 2 slots are present, 64GB is the realistic max with current 32GB modules. (If non-binary 48GB modules become common, 96GB could work in theory, though this isn’t officially advertised.) When inserting RAM, align the notch and press firmly at a 45° angle, then down until the clips click.
SSD slots
The Scar 18 (G834) provides two M.2 slots for PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs. Both slots can take M.2 2280 drives, and ASUS supports RAID0 if you want to stripe two SSDs for speed. One slot likely comes populated; the second may have a thermal pad and a metal cover/bracket. Remove the screw holding the cover over the empty slot and remove it to access the connector.
When adding an SSD, reuse the thermal pad or heatsink bracket on it for cooling. The Scar 18’s slots support standard 2280 drives (no special height restrictions mentioned), and each slot supports at least up to 4TB. For example, an 8TB total (2×4TB) is supported on many ASUS models. Always secure the SSD with the M.2 screw so it stays level.
Ribbon-cable cautions
As noted, always detach the bottom RGB cables first when opening, and reconnect them last when reassembling. They are delicate flat cables; use a plastic tool to flip up the lock and pull them out gently. Also be mindful of the small wires for Wi-Fi antennas or speaker cables that may run near the SSD or RAM areas when you’re working.
New 2025 model changes
The 2025 Scar 18 (G835) introduced a tool-less rear door that allows quick access to RAM and SSDs without removing the entire bottom cover. By unlocking two markers, you can slide off a small panel to reach the upgrade slots. It also uses NVIDIA’s Q-Latch for the M.2 drives (no screwdriver needed to secure SSDs).
If you have this model, upgrading is even easier: peel off the protective sticker and twist the Q-Latch to remove or install an SSD. The 2025 retains 2 SSD slots (Gen4) and two RAM slots (64GB tested). Always check the manual for specifics, but the general principles above still apply.
Warranty notes
ASUS allows end-user upgrades on ROG laptops. Just take care not to damage components. If there is a “Warranty Void” sticker on a screw, know that in many jurisdictions (e.g., USA) these stickers are not enforceable for simple upgrades. The presence of a sticker might mean ASUS wants a tech to do it, but generally adding RAM/SSD should not void warranty as long as you don’t break anything in the process. If in doubt, consult ASUS support, but ROG marketing itself promotes that Strix laptops are “user-upgradeable” for RAM and storage.
Tips for Storage/RAM Upgrade on an ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18 Gaming Laptop
Ribbon-Cable and Screw Map Recap
Always refer to your laptop’s service manual or community guides for screw maps. ASUS often uses captive screws to aid opening (Scar 18, Zephyrus G14), and also has those pesky ribbon cables for RGB (Scar series). Take pictures as you go so you remember cable connections and screw locations. Each model uses slightly different screw lengths – mixing them up can result in longer screws poking through or shorter screws not fully securing. Using a piece of paper with a drawn diagram to place screws can help keep them organized.
Compatible SSD Heights
This model uses M.2 2280 (80 mm length) NVMe SSDs. Generally, if a laptop comes with a heatsink or cover, it can accommodate a standard double-sided drive. If you try to install a very thick SSD and feel resistance when putting the cover back, double-check that the drive is fully seated and any spacer standoffs are correct.
Max RAM Summary
Scar 18 up to 64GB. These are the official or commonly achieved maxima. In the future, BIOS updates may enable higher limits if larger SO-DIMMs become available (e.g., 48GB modules for 96GB total on dual-slot systems).
Warranty and Final Notes
ASUS allows end-user upgrades of RAM and storage. A good practice is to perform upgrades early in the product’s life (so if anything is off, you can address it under warranty). Keep your receipts for new components and consider running a stress test after upgrading (to ensure the new RAM/SSD is seated and functioning properly). If something isn’t recognized, recheck connections. And keep the old parts – if you need warranty repair, they might request the laptop in stock configuration.
For a deep comparison of the top gaming laptops, check our buyer’s guide to high-end gaming laptops, and for tips to upgrade other top laptops, check our upgrading guides for:
Sources
- Asus ROG, How to upgrade the RAM and SSD of your ROG Strix laptop, rog.asus.com
- Asus ROG Forum, “I want to upgrade ROG Strix G18 (2023) RAM to 5600mhz in BIOS”, rog-forum.asus.com
- LaptopMedia, How to open ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 18 G835 (2025) – disassembly and upgrade options, laptopmedia.com
- LaptopMedia, How to open ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 18 (G834, 2024) – disassembly and upgrade options, laptopmedia.com
- Thumb image: rog.asus.com
