RAM question

thadden

Sorry if this question is too elementary:
I want to increase the RAM in my home-built computer. I initially installed 2x4 GB. Is it possible (or advisable to put two 8 GB sticks in the remaining slots?

Thanks for your input.

PowerSpec_MichaelB

Welcome to the forum Thadden. This is actually a really good question. The simple answer is "yes, it may work". The more technical answer is that it will run in dual channel mode as long as you occupy the DIMM's in this order:

• DIMM 1: 4GB
• DIMM 2: 8GB
• DIMM 3: 4GB
• DIMM 4: 8GB

This will allow you to use dual channel memory despite the difference in capacities. If you were to reverse this order and run 4 GB, 4GB, 8GB, 8GB, it will still work, however it will run in what's called "Flex Channel Mode", where you end up with half the bandwidth after you use the first 8GB of RAM. Here is a nice article explaining the details on this: https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/articles/000005657/boards-and-kits.html.

Do be mindful that mixing capacities is one thing, but mixing speeds and different types of memory can lead to instability. Always perform a memory stress test after installing your memory to make sure it's stable. You can use HCI Memtest, ASUS RealBench, AIDA64, MemTest64, etc to make sure everything is fine.

thadden

Thank you SO MUCH for this info!

PowerSpec_MichaelB

You're very welcome. Good luck with your RAM upgrade!