Factory high-RAM laptops resell for more.

The factory high-RAM config will always sell for a premium over a laptop that had soldered RAM upgraded aftermarket.

Even if the upgrade is done perfectly, most buyers don’t trust it. They don’t know who did the work, whether it was done with proper equipment, or if it voids the warranty. On a laptop where RAM is soldered, the original BGA solder joints are done in a factory with controlled reflow ovens. Aftermarket rework is usually hand-done with hot air or a rework station—fine for functionality, but not the same reliability.

Plus, resale platforms don’t have a checkbox for “upgraded soldered RAM.” You’ll list it as 16GB, but the moment a savvy buyer asks for a service tag or system info, they’ll see it wasn’t configured that way from the factory. That raises questions and lowers offers.

If you’re planning to sell in a few years, the extra $200-$300 for the factory config is worth it. If you plan to run it into the ground, upgrade away—but don’t expect to recoup that cost later.