Comparing 4x16GB and 2x36GB configurations for Ryzen performance highlights trade-offs in memory capacity versus speed.
Comparing 4x16GB and 2x36GB configurations for Ryzen performance highlights trade-offs in memory capacity versus speed.
Hey! You're planning a PC upgrade with a solid setup (7700k, STRIX 1070, 32GB RAM, 960PRO). Since you mainly need it for programming and CPU-heavy games, starting with the CPU is a smart move. You're thinking of going up to 64GB RAM, which is a great target.
For the GPU, you mentioned interest in the 5950X (when it drops) and MSI MEG X570 UNIFY. I’m a bit unsure about the memory choice since you’re new—just focus on what fits your budget and needs. Here’s what I noticed:
- **F4-3200C14Q-64GTZR** – Around $650
- 4x16GB at 3200MHz CL14-14-14-34
- Likely dual rank, Samsung B-Die
- Strong overclocking chance, could hit 3600MT/s with tight timings
- Motherboard listed in QVL for this kit
- **F4-3600C16D-64GTZN** – About $400
- 2x32GB at 3600MHz CL16-22-22-42
- Possibly dual or quad rank
- About 3/5 the price of the 3200 kit
- Can run at 3600MT/s if clocked right
- Motherboard also in QVL
- **F4-4000C18D-64GTZR** – Around $375
- 2x32GB at 4000MHz CL18-22-22-42
- Higher voltage, worse timings than 3600
- Cheapest option with similar timing specs
- No X570 board listed
- **Not B-Die** – Likely not worth it for overclocking potential
If you want the best balance of price and performance, the **F4-3600C16D** seems promising. It’s mid-range, offers solid clock speeds, and fits your budget. Just double-check the QVL details for the motherboard model and ensure timings match what you expect.
What do you think? Any other factors you want to consider?
Thanks for the video. I reviewed it quickly, but I believe it doesn't fully address the comparisons between 4x8GB and 2x16GB. For that scenario, dual rank clearly outperforms single rank. However, in my situation it could be a dual rank versus quad rank comparison.
If it's actually Samsung B-Die, it should be a Dual-Rank model with 8 Gb storage.
They function as dual-rank DIMMs because the Samsung B-die chip is an 8Gbit IC. Likely designed for dual-rank operation, possibly with 16Gbit versions. For top performance, using a 4x16GB B-die set and pushing it to 3800 CL14 might be ideal—but probably not practical. The extra $250+ isn't justified unless you're willing to invest heavily. Running four dual-rank sticks at that speed would demand a very capable memory controller. I’d recommend either the two 2x32GB kits, though keep in mind that 2000MHz on the FCLK isn’t guaranteed. You might need to lower the frequency on the 4000 XMP kit to around 3800/3866 to balance memory speed with clock stability, which is optimal for daily Ryzen builds. If you're obsessed with every last bit, these kits already exceed average in XMP voltage, but you could still boost performance slightly. You don’t need Samsung B-die to overclock memory.
Quad rank per channel offers improvements similar to dual rank versus single rank, but with even greater frequency penalties. I haven’t seen anyone push overclocking 64GB memory with Vermeer yet. It’s unclear how severe the impact will be and if additional ranks can still compensate for reduced frequency, despite tight B die timings. Considering prices, the dual rank (limited to two ranks per stick) at 4000MHz remains the top choice. A minor latency boost from a 3600MHz kit can be achieved by slightly adjusting the 4000MHz configuration.
You're welcome! Your assessment aligns with expectations. The absence of X570 boards in the QVL likely won't affect performance, as the 4000 kit is designed to work with other options.