s about RAM MHz
s about RAM MHz
I have a Gigabyte B360M-D3H mobo and 1 RAM stick Hyperx 8 GB 2400 mhz (I use xmp profile on it for 2660 mhz) I want to upgrade my ram and there's a good deal right now on an online store here for a Dual channel 32 GB kit (2 sticks x 16 gb) 3200 mhz CL 16. since the mobo specs say it can run to a maximum 2660 mhz my questions are as follows: 1) will the 3200 mhz ram work on my mobo? from what I've read online most people say it will without any problems, since the mobo can downclock the mhz to the max it can run. But I need an answer from people who know these stuff, to be sure I wont spend my money in vain. 2) If I put these 3200 mhz ram CL 16 sticks on my mobo, what will the CL (cas latency) be. For example, if a 2400 mhz CL 16 ram used with xmp profile to 2660 mhz, the cas latency (CL) increases up to 18. Based on same logic, while downgrading 3200 mhz ram sticks to the maximum my mobo can handle (lets say 2400 mhz), what will the CL be? will it go down, stay the same or increase? 3) 2x same ram or 1x dual channel kit? let me explain so you can understand better what im trying to ask. if I buy 2 sticks of 16 gb same ram (meaning same manufacturer, same mhz, same capacity) instead of the dual channel kit, isn't that the same as the dual kit? if yes, why is the dual channel kit more expensive? the 32 gb dual channel kit is more expensive than if I buy 2 sticks of 16 gb, thats why im asking. someone said if I buy 2 sticks of 16 gb, same manufacturer, same mhz, they will work in dual channel just like the kit (if I put them in slot 1 and 3 obviously), is it true?
The processor will adjust its speed to what the motherboard allows. It's odd to notice that, since the 2x16 units were purchased individually and were cheaper than buying the same set together. As long as the RAM modules match, get them at the lowest price possible.
Yes, it's possible to reduce RAM speed. The manufacturer lists an XMP profile rating. Even if you install a board supporting 3200MT/s, it won't reach that speed by default—it usually operates between 2133MT/s and 2666MT/s (depending on components). This is the JEDEC standard. When XMP is enabled, the RAM will use its rated timings. If the kit claims 3200MT/s CL16-18-18-38, it will actually run around 2666MT/s in that configuration. If you skip XMP, it will stick to whatever highest JEDEC rating is available, which can range from 15-15-15-35 up to 19-21-21-40. You’ll need to experiment to see what works. The difference in cost between the two 2x16GB options comes from compatibility testing—manufacturers adjust memory ICs based on availability, so mismatched speeds can cause booting problems. If the extra $5–10 is a big deal for you, it might be worth trying, especially if the chips share similar serial numbers and should function together. Dual-channel performance isn’t guaranteed, but most 2x16GB sets work fine.