Need assistance with a single-rank or dual-rank RAM issue.
Need assistance with a single-rank or dual-rank RAM issue.
Hey there, I built a gaming PC a while back for streaming and other tasks. I've noticed some lag when doing multiple things at once. To sum it up, I'm seeking advice. First off: my motherboard is Prime B550M-K, the CPU is an R5 5600X. I currently have two 8GB RAM sticks (3200MHz) totaling 16GB. Would it be feasible to buy identical sticks and get four 8GB sticks instead? That would effectively create two dual-channel sets if possible. Is that realistic with my setup? If yes, what are the pros and cons? Or should I opt for two more expensive 16GB dual-channel sticks and replace the existing ones? Thanks in advance!
You can purchase two additional RAM sticks and they would function similarly to having a 16GB module on each channel. According to what I know, there wouldn't be significant advantage in using two 16GB modules versus four 8GB ones. Just verify your existing modules are placed in slots 1 & 3 or 2 & 4. If they're adjacent, it's likely they're operating in single-channel mode. Also, don't overly stress about identical RAM kits—they generally perform well at the standard lowest speed, though matching modules is ideal.
In theory, assuming they're the exact same sticks, yes, that would result in dual rank and be perfectly functional. The problem that can arise is that RAM manufacturers suck and change what memory ICs they use on a stick depending on what was on hand the day it was manufactured, so in a 3200 CL16 bin of memory you can get something like one of 10 different memory ICs (I forget the exact number, might be a little higher). Running with multiple different memory ICs is hit or miss whether it works or not, there are some kits that will not even POST in the same system if they're mixed, there are some that will run JEDEC but won't run XMP, and there are some that will run XMP no problem and behave completely normally. At just 3200, rough odds are something like 5%, 20%, and 75% respectively (just estimating from experience), so odds are it should be completely fine, but you should know the risk with it. If you don't want to risk it at all, get a 2x16GB kit as they should work no matter what and you don't have to play the lottery hoping that your new kit will behave with your old kit. Plus, if you go for something like a 3600 CL18 kit, that should be faster enough to counteract the disadvantage of being single rank and hopefully be a bit cheaper as well.