The 16GB+8GB configuration typically offers better performance compared to 8GB+8GB.
The 16GB+8GB configuration typically offers better performance compared to 8GB+8GB.
My work laptop has 8GB soldered RAM. Let me say it's not enough. I already ordered another 8GB stick, since it supports one user-replaceable RAM. But, my laptop supports up to 32GB. It's a brand new Lenovo E15 laptop (with 11th gen i5). I have to use this because they have employee monitoring set up on the computer, I can't set it up myself on my far more powerful desktop. I can however upgrade the RAM. And to upgrade the video output, I got a really nice hub that supports 2x 4k or 2x 2k at 165Hz. Just what I needed. It's running really smoothly. I will be using it to run salesforce, various apps like Teams, Outlook, Word, etc, and with the company VPN, and sometimes OBS recording the screen, and running two 2K 165Hz 32" monitors, powered via an external hub. I will never be gaming on this. Even with only a few apps open, granted one of those is OBS recording the screen over Zoom video chat, I'm running out of memory several times a day and sitting at over 90% RAM utilization. 8GB might suffice, but more of course is better. The problem is that if you run an 8GB and 16GB RAM, then it won't word in dual channel mode, it will work in slower single channel mode. Thing is, I'm not sure just now much slower that is. It is DDR4 3200Mhz RAM, so it's not slow by any means. Crucial RAM 8GB DDR4 3200 MHz Price isn't an issue. $72 or $36 makes no difference to me. What matters to me is the performance of the laptop. Which will be better for my use? adding an 8GB stick that runs at dual faster channel mode (total 16GB), or adding a 16GB stick at the slower mode (24GB)?
When the available space goes beyond 16GB, the 24GB setup tends to perform better, even though it might stick to single-channel instead of the dual-channel mode some systems offer today (which switches to dual-channel once you hit the smaller capacity). On the other hand, if it settles for single-channel with 24GB, the 16GB configuration will remain quicker for most tasks that don’t involve accessing the page file beyond that limit. Keep in mind these points rely on the drives functioning properly and not conflicting with your existing RAM setup.
You have two sticks—one 8GB and another 16GB—each with identical specifications except for the module type. Running in dual channel mode works well overall. After the first 8GB of the 16GB module, performance drops to single channel. For your needs, I recommend opting for the 24GB of RAM, as it provides extra capacity and handles more demanding applications or intensive tasks later.
Consider reaching out to Lenovo for more information. If not, look for user reports online about upgrading this model and see what experiences others shared.
Apparently there's a "flex mode" for RAM which utilizes it how you said, but the info I found on it was from a decade ago and not relevant anymore because hardware changes so much. So, hoping someone knows more. It would not be easy to contact lenovo about the issue, and even if I did, getting to a tech support, and finding someone who actually knows something, will be a lot harder if not impossible vs someone on here who already knows the answer.
The hybrid functionality is built into the memory controller within the CPU... if the processor can handle it, it functions properly. Contemporary CPUs include it. HOWEVER, it might be constrained by BIOS settings, which could affect the motherboard. The simplest approach would be to check availability of a compatible stick.
This topic involves the CPU and modern Intel processors include flex mode support.