I increased my RAM speed from 2400MHz to 3200MHz
I increased my RAM speed from 2400MHz to 3200MHz
From what I've gathered from major tech publications like Linus and Jayz2Cent, RAM speed does play a role but only to a limited degree—it mainly affects performance when paired with specific CPUs or applications. In my case, I have a 16GB system with 2400MHz RAM and a Ryzen 2600/1660 setup, which is functioning perfectly. When I upgraded to 16GB at 3200MHz, the improvement in FPS was minimal, around 2 fps at best. I'm unsure whether the new sticks will make a noticeable difference or if it's time to consider swapping them out. Regarding the CPU upgrade, I'm getting a Ryzen 3600, which is a significant jump from my current configuration. The combination of faster RAM and the new CPU should definitely boost performance, especially for streaming and gaming. However, since my old RAM won't be used much longer, it might not be worth keeping them. For streaming on Twitch, the new RAM could help a bit, but only if you're playing less demanding games. Overall, the upgrade seems worthwhile unless you want to hold onto the older components.
RAM performance will become less critical when paired with a weaker GPU. Most noticeable gains in those videos usually come from powerful hardware struggling with slower RAM. A 3090 using a 5800x and 2400 MHz RAM will lag noticeably compared to a 3600 MHz version. Still, reduced power means less restriction in performance. I expected some improvements even with a 1660S, but it might not have been worth the investment. Allocating funds to a superior GPU would yield bigger benefits. Simply keeping the 2600 and older RAM while adding a better GPU would still provide more progress than improving CPU and RAM together. However, a 3600 CPU pairs well with that RAM. Real improvements come from newer GPUs. If you manage to get something like an RTX 2070 or a new 3000 series model, you’d likely prefer the 3600 and faster RAM over your current setup. It’s a bit of a balancing act. I would have upgraded the GPU first for immediate better results.
I understand your arguments and reasoning now. It really makes sense after reading it. The main reason I chose to upgrade my CPU and RAM before getting a GPU was mainly financial—current GPU prices are too high. I'm still unsure, though; I might stick with the RAM upgrade just in case a future GPU doesn't match my existing hardware performance. Overall, most of us thought the same: your GPU will usually fit well with your other components, and since finding a good GPU is tough, it's smarter to handle the rest first.
Hey, thanks for the update. Based on the manual, your motherboard only supports up to 3200MHz, while the RAM you upgraded claims to be 3600MHz. It looks like there might be a discrepancy between the specs. Your friend’s offer seems based on the higher frequency, but since your board doesn’t support it, you should probably stick with what the manual says.
Logic is solid here. RAM speed is usually determined by your CPU's IMC (internal memory controller) rather than the motherboard. The motherboard does matter, along with trace layout and board quality, but most often your CPU sets the pace before the motherboard. Still, if there’s a problem and it can’t run at 3600, you can always turn on XMP and adjust to 3200... well, you’ll learn next time.