The problem you have is that the studio 17 has only two RAM sockets, so you will need to purchase 2x4GB RAM modules. A quick web search shows 4GB DDR3 modules are about $250 each (Crucial). Best is to get the 17 with minimum RAM and buy the 8GB from Crucial for the same price as the upgrade from Dell. Then you can either keep the original RAM or sell it. If you need Dell warranty service, you will need to put the original RAM back in, or they might not honor the warranty if you send them the laptop for service. In addition, RAM from third parties is warrantied for life. From Dell, it is the period of the purchased warranty.