Question...Why buy a twinpack of RAM?

[Rich0116]

Here's something that's been bugging me. I'm about to seriously upgrade my old system, and I'm toying with the idea of dropping some bucks for 1GB of DDR Ram. I want the new Corsair XMS Pro modules, 'cause they rock in my friend's system, but I'm confused. Is there some advantage to buying a twin pack specifically? I have found that I could buy 2 512MB modules for less that a 2x512 pack. Why would I pay the extra $$$ specifically for a twin pack? Before I drop $300-350, I would like to know I'm spending that cash for a good reason.

Any advice/explanations would be helpful.

 

[PhoenixOrion]

The price you pay is assurance that you can use them on dual-channel platforms. They test both sticks on same board before shipment.

If you are not going for a dual-channel setup then you can get by with different modules as long as they have the same timings and settings for optimal performance.

 

[Rich0116]

Ahhh, that makes sense. I figured as much, but it's nice to have confirmation. Thx.

 

[AristoV300]

Since current mobos use Dual Channel for memory, the twin packs are supposed to be matched and tested pairs. I have not seen any proof that this really adds any performance from grabbing any 2 dimms that were the same speed and timings. If you have the money get the Corsair 3200XL, very good RAM.

 

[een]

From what I have read so far, when a manufacturer labeled a pair of RAM as dual channel, it means that they took the time to plug them into dual channel and see if they work.
There has been no benchmark comparing a pair of memory bought in a pack and another pair bought separately.

I got a pair 512 mb DDR which works flawlessly in dual channel even though it's not branded dual channel. So you better safe your money for something else. Else, piece of mind of knowing that your memory will certainly work is worth the premium for you.

 

[GreatBarracuda]

Oh I've been thinking about this for a long time too But I just can't churn up the dough for it yet.... Either 1gig of low-timing DDR400 OCZ optimized for dual-channel or 1gig of Corsair TwinX-PC3200. Money money money...why doesn't it grow on trees?

 

[AristoV300]

If you have a good 3.0c it should be able to hit 250 on air. So I would recommend OCZ Gold PC-4000 or Corsair 3200XL 2-2-2-5 that run up to 250 no prob. How much are you looking to spend?

 

[GreatBarracuda]

Originally posted by: AristoV300
If you have a good 3.0c it should be able to hit 250 on air. So I would recommend OCZ Gold PC-4000 or Corsair 3200XL 2-2-2-5 that run up to 250 no prob. How much are you looking to spend?

I have the 3.0C (Northwood). I'm looking to spend as little as possible . I am not in too much of a hurry though. I think by the time Doom III comes out, I'll see if the prices have gone down a little. Isn't the 2-2-2-5 3200XL a little pricey though? I think I'll go with something less expensive like 2-3-3-6. I'm not looking to overclock heavily though.