Getting extra memory into the two empty ports at a low cost
Getting extra memory into the two empty ports at a low cost
My Desktop is an old i7 6700K with 2x8GB Corsair Vengeance DDR4 2133Mhz on a MSI z170a Gaming M5 motherboard. My goal is to replace this PC with a powerfull laptop for work, but because of Covid the prices of hardware have spiked in my country, the reasonable thing to do is wait a little longer. The problem is that my desktop is struggling when running multiple VMs, so I wanted to add 2 more 8GB sticks to hold until I can invest in a laptop. Also, I can't find the same RAM sticks I currently own and 2133Mhz sticks are actually more expensive then 2400Mhz, 2666Mhz or even 3000Mhz. So, can I use faster RAM than the i7 6700K cap of 2133Mhz? Running 2 dual-channels means that they work independently? Like, the older RAM won't run into compatibility problems with the new since it's in a different channel? If I purchase a single RAM stick (8GB or 16GB) will that be bad for performance? Do I have to look for anything else to ensure compatibility?
Typical RAM speeds usually start around 2133, so you should be able to find a reasonably affordable option. You might even gain an extra advantage by letting your motherboard auto-overclock it, for instance with a 2400 or 2666 package when you activate XMP.