2x2GB or 4x1GB RAM?

[AtaruMoroboshi18]

I'm thinking of moving up to 4GB RAM, but I'm wondering if 4x1GB actually makes any difference at all compared to 2x2GB RAM. Anyone try 4x1GB compared to 2x2GB? I'm a gamer and I'm wondering if this will make any difference at all.

 

[jamesbond007]

If you're trying some fast RAM (quick CAS latencies and timings) or plan to overclock, then go with the configuration that will require the least amount of modules. Typically the least amount of DIMMs you have populating your slots, the better. However, you should keep the channels matched and filled. (ie: dual-channel configs should always have 2 or 4 modules to keep it fast)

Short answer: 2x2GB

 

[dguy6789]

2x2GB. The upgrade path allowed by it is significantly more important than the unnoticeable performance increase tighter timing faster clocked memory would give you.

 

[AtaruMoroboshi18]

Any specific RAM deals you guys would recommend?

 

[0roo0roo]

matched is best.
some boards can be less stable with 4 sticks.... two is best
course if you have a high end board this doesn't apply so much.

triple channel doesn't come on until you go ddr 3 boards.

 

[vj8usa]

Is this for a new build, or are you already running 2x1GB? If it's the latter scenario, you could always get 2x2GB and run it alongside your current 2x1GB for a total of 6GB (it's what I did when I wanted more RAM).

 

[AtaruMoroboshi18]

I currently have 2x1GB of RAM. Does 6GB RAM make a real difference?

 

[vj8usa]

2GB just wasn't enough for me in Vista (for normal use it was fine, but games would start stuttering). 4GB is pretty much the minimum these days for playing modern games smoothly in Vista. If you want to upgrade, there's no reason to ditch your current 1GB sticks, unless your motherboard has issues running 4 sticks of RAM.

In short, 6GB will make a huge difference over 2GB if you're using Vista.

 

[dguy6789]

It's not hard to get up and above 2GB and get close to 4GB in Vista. With just my normal applications open(Firefox, WMP11, AIM, AVG and such) I use around 1.8-2GB of ram. Playing a game like Crysis has no problem bringing the total usage up to 4GB. Definitely go for as much memory as you can get, it's so cheap these days.

 

[srp49ers]

I recently recently replaced 4x1gb Ballistixs with 2x2gb Ballistix ram and I noticed a fair amount of quickness and responsiveness with only have 2 sticks.
I didnt change anything else, the timings were the same.