Two Dual Channel Kits available.
Two Dual Channel Kits available.
Hey there! I'm thinking about upgrading my RAM and planning to get a 2x8GB kit with a 3200MHz Trident Z Neo. I'm curious if using two kits to reach 32GB won't cause any issues. I was considering buying a 4-pack, but honestly, it seems like a tough sell in my area since they don’t carry the CL14 version. I usually need more RAM because my PC handles a lot of multitasking while I work on projects. If you have any details about my current specs, that would help me better. Also, I’d love your thoughts on buying used sticks and what tests you recommend checking before purchasing.
Perform a MemTest or MemTest86 check prior to purchase (be aware it may require several hours).
It's tough to evaluate before purchasing unless the seller offers to do the testing.
I can evaluate it to some degree. If I purchase a used one, I’ll do so via an online marketplace. The platform allows me two days to raise concerns after receiving the item before it finalizes the deal. Plus, I plan to ask the seller to agree to testing my memtest86 for a day. I’m just unsure if buying two kits of the 2x8 will lead to any issues, as each kit comes from a different seller.
It might cause issues if the two kits differ in timings or frequency. If you're buying two identical F 4 - 3 2 0 0 C 1 6 D - 1 6 G T Z N kits, I'm fairly confident it's going to work fine. No one can be 100% certain, but that's basically the best case scenario to fill four RAM slots. 2x16 GB would be ideal. Is that not an option?
Well, the cost for a 2x16GB is two and a half times what it would be for a 2x8GB. That’s a bit of an issue. (And no one has any used ones on sale right now either.) Plus, if I need something with built-in lighting, using two might look... not great, honestly. But the main concern is the price itself. A new 2x8GB is affordable enough to double, but 2.5 times that seems odd.