4GB or 8GB of DDR2 RAM?

[deveraux]

Hi all,

I am building a new system to replace my slightly aged PC. I am down to the last 2 decisions on this purchase. 1 is the OS - I'm still not certain about making the move to Vista but I likely will, which brings me to my second query, should I go for 8 gigs of RAM?

I am limited (due to where I live) to only get 2x2G modules of Corsair RAM so I don't know if its worth going for full 4 slots of 2G each due to the break of the pairing. Are there any disadvantages by doing so?

Thanks

EDIT: Similar topic below with the answer I need. So please ignore/delete this topic. Thanks!

 

[pugh]

If you can afford it and you go with 64bit vista then I see no reason not to use the 8gb.. More memory can never hurt .. Heck I would love 8gb myself.

 

[terentenet]

I have 8Gb DDR2 myself. Allthough I never saw them used over 70% in Vista 64bit, it's nice to be able to play CoH while Crysis is in the tray.
As pugh said, more never hurts if you have the money to get more. Go for 8Gb and don't look back.

 

[taltamir]

Getting two pairs does not "break the pair". The motherboard slots are color coded and are designed for two separate pairs. You CAN put individuals, but then you will not get the benefits of dual channel (it will be slower). But as long as you plug them in correctly it should not be an issue (read the motherboard's manual. Some want you to put both members of a pair in the same color, others want each member at a different colored slot).

Ideally, I would say get 2x2GB now, and 2x4GB in a year or so and get more for your money when it is needed.
But there is no reason to NOT get 8GB today other then cost.

 

[CVSiN]

Originally posted by: pugh
If you can afford it and you go with 64bit vista then I see no reason not to use the 8gb.. More memory can never hurt .. Heck I would love 8gb myself.

I went that route and LOVE vista and gaming with 8 gigs..

no swap file for the win!