Swapping RAM at minor timing variations
Swapping RAM at minor timing variations
Hello, after roughly five years I've chosen to replace my RAM. I'm using two sets of 8GB DDR4 3600MHz modules, but they're no longer in stock. I'm considering switching to two sets of 16GB DDR4 3600MHz modules. Can I connect them together without any problems, or might the slight timing difference cause an issue? Thanks!
There are no assurances when mixing RAM, particularly at greater speeds. The safest approach is to verify they use identical DRAM modules, though this isn't always feasible.
The RAM already installed in the PC is a Patriot PVLW416G360C6K. I'm considering buying Corsair CMK32GX4M2D3600C16 instead. Both should support PC4-28800, with only a minor timing variation expected. Naturally, the alternative is discarding the Patriots and keeping the 32GB, opting for more gigabytes for better performance, isn't it?
Typically with DDR4, the devices are ready and can manage it smoothly. Still, it's not perfect—just experiment. We can spend all day planning but real-world testing is essential. If it doesn’t work, just return it; it’s simple. You probably don’t need 48GB unless you upgrade to a larger size. A 2x8 setup is better than a 2x16 for this.
I can't buy the same set again, and honestly, the Patriot kit (as mentioned in my prior message) seemed poor from the start. But since I've already used them and they function well, I don’t want to waste them and their resale value is minimal. My concern was only whether there might be problems when connecting nearly identical sticks, given my limited understanding.
Avoid combining different RAM speeds since it sets everything to the slowest. Using XMP is also improbable. It's best to purchase a fresh set with the exact amount of RAM needed.
Check the burner screenshot. Identify the motherboard model and CPU type. Look for a green PCB OEM RAM that matches your existing RAM specifications. This should ensure compatibility with XMP and future upgrades since the same RAM interfaces will work.
MSI Z370 Carbon i7-8700K is a high-performance motherboard featuring an Intel Core i7-8700K processor.
I’m planning to sell those rams. For a replacement, just purchase whatever is cheapest for the 3200c16/3600c18 kit you can find—branding isn’t important. Anything other than those two options isn’t worth it because they’re either low-quality copies with minimal performance gains (the 3600c16 kit you have) or aimed at overclockers only (4000+). At that point, buying OEM bare PCBs and clocking them might be better. If you want something faster than the standard 3200c16/3600c18 XMP, you’ll need to tweak the RAM settings. I’d suggest the M378A2K43DB2 or HMA82G6DJR8N models—they’re dual-rank and their clocks can easily exceed 4000, though I doubt your CPU can handle that without pushing VCC to over 1.45V (not recommended).
I’m planning to sell the whole platform. The 8700K and Z370 boards are still in demand for $200–250+ from those unfamiliar with Ryzen 5 3600/5500 or B450 at $100. PCPartPicker lists the Intel Core i5-12400 at $172.98, Gigabyte B660M AORUS ELITE at $109.99, and Silicon Power GAMING DDR4 memory for $48.97. The total comes to $331.94, with shipping, taxes, and discounts applied where possible. Data compiled by PCPartPicker on July 13, 2023.