Upgrading RAM can be beneficial, but mixing different types of RAM may pose risks.
Upgrading RAM can be beneficial, but mixing different types of RAM may pose risks.
Hello forum, I was hoping that some smart or knowledgeable individual could help me in my dilemma. The plan is to upgrade from my existing 16 GB (2x8) of DDR4 RAM to 32GB. Problem: I can't seem to find an offer for the exact memory I purchased 2 years ago. What I bought: Ballistix 3000 MHz CL15 RAM for cheap. I was informed that it's the same die on the memory, regardless of whether I buy the cheapest 3000 MHz or the most expensive 3800 MHz kit. So I just overclocked it for the time being - worked out great and been running stable ever since. HOWEVER, upon checking shops, the most attractive deal is for a pair of 3200 MHz CL16 sticks. I would have wished to purchase that and run 4 RAM modules for a total of 32 GB. But the word has always been: do not mix your RAM. Would I be doing this by using the same manufacturer? What's the spec I need to check specifically to be sure that I don't run into any issues? God, has anyone ever done this or has any sort of experience? My assumption would be: It's still the same chip underneath and once I plug them all into my new motherboard, I set the timings for all of them equally. I check my RAM timings via some software and overclock afterwards if needed. Now, that would be glorious if that worked the way I imagine it, but PC building has a way of crushing many such hopes. I need someone to tell me where I am wrong Or if it at all possible what spec has to be equivalent as to avoid 'mixing' memory within my system. Thoughts on going for 4 modules for a 32 GB setup? I KNOW that selling my existing kit and simply buying a new pair of RipJaws or whatever is the safest route. But that would require me to sell my stuff on the second-hand market and get a fresh 32 GB kit for ~140 USD instead of just upgrading for 70. I don't think I'll get too much for a used pair of 8 GB sticks, even though they run just fine. RAM seems to be one of the more prone components to failure after all. I appreciate any sort of insight you can give me!
I'm not an expert, but I believe if the native speed, DOCP and XMP rates align, it should work fine. Unless you're concerned about specific matches or brands not matching, which in rare situations might affect certain boards or CPUs. Edited July 19, 2022 by An0maly_76 Revised, more info
To expand on my thoughts, I am in the process of RMA'ing a motherboard. Debug lights act like a traffic signal gone haywire, orange, yellow, red, green, white. Board manufacturer doesn't list my ram kit as QVL, yet the RAM manufacturer says it is compatible with the board. So I don't know who to believe. All I know is that there is a possibility that I was unwittingly running unsupported RAM, with a DOCP overclock to boot.
Mixing ram isn't "dangerous" as in damage. It is just not optimal. If you are manually setting the clocks and stuff, it doesn't matter. If you are going to use XMP/DOCP or automatic then it will either not use it and default to JEDEC speeds or just try it's best. It's part of that "only as strong as your weakest link" or "can only go as fast as your slowest ram". In general, in the majority of motherboard memory topologies, 2 sticks are more stable than 4 sticks. (for detailed expalation, Actually Hardcore Overclocking has an video on this). In my experience, I have a system unable to do 4x8gb 3200 stable but able to do 2x16 3600. I ended up using those sticks in some other system I had that doesn't need the speed. IMHO, I think 30-50$ for your current 2x8gb second hand is reasonable (microcenter really putting the pressure on this lol).
You're welcome on the detailed answers received. The information from C9BJZ and JEDEC PC4 Shop regarding the RAM you're considering is accurate. I appreciate your clarification about your system setup and the Ryzen 5 3600. It seems there might have been a mix-up in the frequency expectations. If you're aiming for 2666 MHz, that would be a good starting point for your build. I hope this helps and that the purchase goes smoothly!
C9bjz performs exceptionally well. In this scenario, purchase some micron 2666 bare PCBs and request the C9bjz IC (feasible since it's a bare PCB, allowing direct inspection of the IC). Adjustments will mainly be minor changes to your existing OCP.