The best 4 RAM modules combination

[Reditom]

I have 2 x 2 GB DDR3 1333 memory modules (dual chanel).I want to add memory in the remaining 2 slots.


1. Add 2 modules (2 x 2 GB)? Total size and combination: (2 x 2 GB) + ( 2 x 2 GB) = 4 x 2 GB = 8 GB

2. Add 2 modules (2 x 4 GB)? Total size and combination: (2 x 2 GB) + ( 2 x 4 GB) = 4 GB + 8 GB = 12 GB


Which combination of memory will be better and faster? 1 or 2?
Different combination of size modules influence on something?

[boggtrotter59]

I would populate 2 slots with the 2 X 4 Gb modules and leave the other slots empty... Some boards are finicky when you populate all 4 slots. If you do need 12 Gb of ram and want to populate all 4 slots, I would set the memory timings manually in the bios to whatever the slower modules are spec'ed at. Set all 4 modules to this. It's important that all modules are set at the same cas latency... At least this has been my experience. The mobo doesn't always read the spd info on the chips correctly when you mismatch sets.

[bkh2]

I run an x58 mobo which initially had 6gb (3x2gb, OCZ). I then bought a 12gb kit (3x4gb, Mushkin) which had different timings and put them in the three remaining slots. I did nothing special in the BIOS; it automatically downclocked all the RAM to the most limiting clocks (which was 1333 of the Mushkin sticks). If I really wanted to, I could have overclocked them all to 1600, but all in all, I don't see any significant improvements of 1600MHz (which I now run with 6x4gb, Mushkin) over 1333 (which I used to run with two different sizes of RAM sticks from two different manufacturers). Just my experience; YRMV.

[Behemoth-]

Both can be ok I think. Here's my ram on my main PC and it is rock solid stable:

2x2GB G.Skill Ripjaws DDR3-1600 9-9-9-24 downclocked to 1333
2x4GB G.Skill Ripjaws DDR3-1333 9-9-9-24

But I'd at least try to get similar ram kits.

[cujoel]

If you purchase 2x4GB sticks and they run at faster speeds than 1333MHz, those sticks will be down-clocked to 1333 to match your other 2x2GB sticks. Other than that it should be fine.

[pitz]

Yeah go with the highest density modules whenever possible (within reason, price-wise). At least they'll have some resale value and/or won't need to be thrown out as you upgrade to better stuff.

[zsamz_]

get a 2x4gb set
you can always add the 2x2 if your board likes it