Combining various RAM speeds Blending distinct RAM rates Merging different memory timings
Combining various RAM speeds Blending distinct RAM rates Merging different memory timings
Hey there, I have two 8GB sticks from SK Hynix with 3200Mhz specs at 1.2V. The timing numbers are a bit low for my 5900x CPU, so I was thinking about getting G.Skill's F4-3600C16D-16GTZNC (16-19-19 at 1.35V). I’m wondering if mixing them would be possible—probably the only way would be to try overclocking the Hynix sticks, but I’m not sure it’d work. If that’s the case, all four sticks might end up underclocked to 3200MHz with those terrible timings.
I've never come across the idea of checking a RAM stick's rated MHz without significant performance drops. It's usually safer to match speeds to the weakest component. Avoid locking into the highest possible speeds unless necessary. Consider selling your sticks and investing in a reliable 3600MHz DDR4 setup.
In the optimal situation the RAM would function using the same clock speeds and timing as the weakest stick. The motherboard will automatically configure the DRAM voltage to 1.2v by default. If fortune favors you, the PC might even start. A bit more chance is needed for a stable boot. Ultimately, it’s unlikely the system will successfully POST; issues are more likely related to the motherboard/BIOS, CPU DRAM controller, or probably an XMP failure during profile application. In short, abandon the hope—this setup is probably flawed.
I tested a 3600MHz CL17 with a 4400MHz CL15 and found no stability problems. Of course, the focus was on memory overclocking, which isn’t always common. If you understand your project, you can achieve significant speed gains. However, running 32GB at 3600MHz is challenging—memory overclocking becomes even more difficult. You may need two different memory chips, each with unique timing and termination needs. It’s possible to get them stable on their own, but combining them would likely require extensive adjustments and timing tweaks. I’m not saying it’s impossible, but if this is your aim, switching to a 2x16GB configuration would be more practical. Aim for dual-rank memory (like 5900X at 3800MHz or 3733MHz at 3600MHz) and consider overclocking to that level.
Thanks a lot for the suggestions! It seems like I might just upgrade to the G.Skill 3600MHz CL16 model instead of the current 16GB kit. I’ll check if I can reach overclocking, though—I’m not sure it’ll really boost my gaming performance since my main focus is on speed rather than raw numbers.
To explore RAM overclocking options, focus on the specific kits and memory types. The top choices are Micron Rev.E 8Gb, Micron Rev.B 16Gb, and Samsung B die 8Gb. Micron kits are straightforward, Rev.B offers better performance for overclocking, with sizes like 2x8GB or 2x16GB. Samsung B die currently stands out for DDR4, offering similar pricing to Rev.E but with a more complex purchasing process. For the latest B die, aim for models at 3200MHz and above, featuring flat or mostly flat timings (such as 14-14-14, 14-15-15, etc.). These won’t be available in CL20 or higher kits. In the US, the most affordable option is the Patriot Viper Steel 4000MHz CL19-19-19, which should support 3800MHz CL16 without major issues. A 4x8GB configuration using these chips would be highly effective, acting as a top-tier memory for Ryzen processors—essentially delivering dual rank performance. This setup is especially valuable if your games gain significantly from increased RAM speed, though it may vary depending on the game. Check specific titles to confirm benefits, but expect noticeable improvements in titles like Time Spy Extreme CPU, where optimized timings can boost scores by around 1000 points over 3600MHz CL16 XMP settings.
Accepted, tools such as Cinebench ignore memory configurations, meaning a 10% boost is near the upper limit. Nonetheless, it remains worth considering.