Can you mix and match RAM sets?

There’s a prevailing misconception you cannot use different RAM sizes together or that you cannot mix RAM brands. The answer is Yes, you can mix RAM sticks and RAM sizes and even different RAM speeds—but mixing and matching RAM modules isn’t the best for system performance.

Which RAM combination is best?

You are better off buying a matched set of RAM – 2 x 2GB or 2 x 4GB. But if you have to, buy a 4GB RAM stick from the same manufacturer and the exact same part number.

Can I put one 4GB and 8gb RAM together?

Mixing and matching is usually not recommended even if the clock speed and voltage are the same, it’s best if the timings are also the same, and even then, it’s not guaranteed that two different sticks will work together. Most of the time they will, but you don’t want to be one of the 20% or so where it doesn’t.

Can you use 2 different types of RAM?

Can you mix different types of RAM? The short answer is yes. But the path to greatest stability and performance comes from using memory of the same specification from a single manufacturer.

Is it better to combine two sticks of RAM?

It just increases your chances. It is less of a concern that the RAM modules are of different sizes (2GB vs 4GB). It is more of a concern when the modules are different speeds (PC3-8500 1066MHz -vs- PC3-10700 1333MHz). Although the system will just run both sticks at the slower speed (1066MHz).

What’s the downside of mixing differently sized Ram?

The answer stream is correct to the best of my understanding. Mixing memory modules of different sizes and capacities is generally a bad idea. The memory controller would have to default to the speed of the lesser module and if its a dual channel setup, it may not work at all – BSOD. You would be better served, IMHO by the matched pair.

Why is it recommended to use matched pairs of RAM?

The reason for the recommendation (to do matched pairs) is to avoid common RAM problems. This does not mean you have to have a problem if you don’t. It just increases your chances. It is less of a concern that the RAM modules are of different sizes (2GB vs 4GB).

What are the different RAM types and features?

In this sample chapter from, CompTIA A+ 220-901 and 220-902 Cert Guide, Academic Edition, author Mark Edward Soper explains RAM types and features including Memory Upgrade Considerations, SO-DIMM vs DIMM, RAM Configurations, Single-Sided vs Double-Sided, RAM Compatibility, and Installing Memory.