How many RAM sticks are better to set - 2 or 4: Top 5 best models

How to choose RAM (ram, ddr), which memory module is better

Not so long ago, RAM was far from the foreground when assembling a personal computer. Typically, the focus is on the processor and graphics card. It may seem to many that it makes no difference which RAM module to install - the main thing is that there is more of it. Indeed, in the past, RAM did not have the greatest impact on the performance of a computer, however, these days, modules with a high frequency can increase the overall performance quite significantly. Therefore, choosing a RAM is as responsible as other components.

The industry of components for a modern PC is constantly evolving and RAM does not stand aside. Almost every year we can see how new technologies appear, various systems are being modernized. All this greatly increases the performance of modules, which become less "hot" and "gluttonous" in terms of energy consumption. Often, innovative models cannot be installed in outdated PCs.

Many could see a special marking on various RAM modules - DDR (double data rate). This shows which generation the RAM is related to. DDR and DDR 2 are already quite old today and cannot be found on sale. DDR3 is still popular as it predates the current DDR4. If we consider assemblies of computers these days, then the best choice would be the fourth generation RAM. Finding out if a module will be compatible with your computer is pretty easy. Each type of memory has its own connector, so it will be impossible to install the wrong memory.

How many planks to install

If you want to upgrade your PC, then it is important to consider many different features and nuances. Of course, the main issue when choosing a RAM will be its quantity for optimal performance. Suppose you need to install enough RAM on your PC so that you can comfortably play modern video games. In this case, sixteen gigabytes will suffice. However, there are some nuances here. It is necessary to properly select not only the brand, but also the number of modules.

If the motherboard has 2 slots, then it is optimal to install 2 strips of eight gigabytes each. So the system will work much faster - in 2 channels. When installing sixteen gigabytes of memory, the system operates in 1 channel. All this will lower the performance in terms of the speed of work. If the board has sixteen memory slots, then it is possible to start work in 4 channels as much as possible.

If the board has 4 slots, then it is better to install 2 strips of 8 gigabytes each. For everything to work in two channels, you need to install the modules not side by side, but by colors. As a rule, the board has slots of various colors. Many may wonder why 2 planks and not 4.

The fact is that it is better not to install all the available RAM slots at once, since:

• In the future, you may need to upgrade your personal computer again, increasing the amount of RAM. If everything is full, then it will be problematic to upgrade - you will have to get rid of the old slats. If there are free slots, then it is enough just to buy the required number of strips by installing everything in the system.
• Significant memory load will negatively impact the system
• If you install 4 strips, then if you need to overclock, it will be much more difficult to do this.

What is the amount of RAM modules

The amount of RAM is one of the main indicators, which will be indicated in gigabytes. Everything is quite simple here: the more memory, the better, since the amount of data remembered by RAM will depend on this. For computers in offices, the optimal choice would be a value from four to eight gigabytes. In the past, only a few gigabytes were enough, but modern software is becoming more and more demanding on the hardware, so it is better to have at least a small margin for the future.

For assemblies of computers that are intended for more demanding software, it is better to take at least eight gigabytes of RAM. If a personal computer is intended to work with professional software and video games, then at the moment the best choice would be sixteen gigabytes of RAM.

Modern motherboards can support all 64 GB of RAM, however, as mentioned above, it is important to distribute the strips across multiple channels.

Choosing RAM: characteristics, certifications and features

A fairly large assortment of RAM is presented on the modern market, which differ in their specifications, characteristics and types. In addition to the DDR standard, there is also DDR4D DIMM, DDR4 SO-DIMM.

DIMM stands for Dual In-line Memory Module, i.e. double-sided module. All this is shown only by the form factor.

SO-DIMM is a pretty interesting solution. Small Outline Dual In-line Memory Modules are modules that are much smaller than standard strips. Typically, these solutions are used in portable technology.

There are different kinds of RAM form factors. There are solutions with radiators, which are often installed in cases with a transparent window - everything looks very impressive. In practical terms, the radiator provides additional cooling. Such modules will be relevant for gamers and fans to overclock the system. There are also additional markings that indicate the type of memory in terms of buffering:

• U-DIMM - no buffer
• R-DIMM - buffered
• LR-DIMM - buffer and lower power consumption
• FB-DIMM - Fully Buffered Memory

Is it possible to install modules with different frequencies and timings

Frequency and timings are the main characteristics of the RAM, which for the most part have an impact on performance. The higher the memory frequency and the lower the timings, the more efficient the RAM will be. The nuance here is that if you increase one value, the second will also increase. Therefore, it is important to strike a balance here. Generally, memory with high frequencies and lower timings is quite expensive.

For PCs that are intended for office work, it makes little sense to purchase high-speed RAM. If a computer is required for video games, high-quality high-frequency memory is the best choice.

It is possible to install the RAM with different timings if there are no other alternatives. The main thing is to check the characteristics of the motherboard and processor. It is important that everything is compatible.

Is it possible to run RAM from different brands on the same laptop

If there is a need to install RAM from different brands in a portable laptop, then the RAM will function. It is important that other nuances and differences are also taken into account when purchasing RAM. As a rule, different brands of RAM will not impair memory functioning.

How to properly install RAM

Installation is fairly easy. Users with little experience in terms of knowledge of components can also cope with this task. Before starting the installation, it is important to access the slots on the motherboard itself. As a rule, it will be enough to simply remove the cover on the PC case.

Then you need to bend the jumpers on the sides, and then insert the RAM module. You need to keep the module out of bounds.It is not recommended to press in with force - the module should enter calmly. Only at the end can you press harder to firmly fix everything in the connector. Then you need to snap the latches. All that remains is to turn on the computer. The system will automatically recognize the new memory. Installation of additional software is not required, although there are certain models for which you need to install programs - but this is quite rare.

Rating: top best manufacturers of RAM

Today, modules can be found in the assortment of almost every brand that manufactures components. When choosing a brand, it is recommended to take into account the popularity of the manufacturer.

Operatives are becoming more and more affordable, and their characteristics allow you to work with comfort - be it video games or demanding software that is used for professional needs.

Top most famous brands:

1. Kingston... This manufacturer from the United States of America is known for its solutions for various components that are associated with different types of memory. You can find a wide variety of models on sale: from flash drives to solid-state drives and RAM modules. The brand has proven itself on the positive side, as it delivers excellent solutions at an adequate cost, which, in turn, are distinguished by their reliability.
2. HyperX... Another famous brand from the United States of America. This company is a sub-brand of Kingston. The manufacturer is also engaged in the production of SSDs, flash drives, various RAM modules. Quite interesting solutions can be found on sale, which are especially popular among video game lovers.
3. Patriot Memory... The most famous brand of various components, headquartered in the United States of America. Various RAM modules from this manufacturer are of high quality and reliability, but the components are quite expensive.
4. AMD... This company is known for its processors. However, the brand is engaged in the production of a wide variety of components, including RAM modules, which are quite common for computers based on processors from this brand. The RAM modules are distinguished by quite good characteristics and durability.
5. ADATA... This company is known to many for a large number of flash drives, solid-state drives, which are quite common in the domestic market. The manufacturer's assortment includes pretty good RAM modules and other components.

Kingston, ValueRAM KVR16N11 / 8

This solution belongs to the DDR3 type. This RAM is one of the best in its segment. This memory module has a DIMM form factor and features a low profile. All this allows for installation in various non-standard cases and small computers. This model has eight gigabytes of memory. The characteristics of this solution are optimal for many computers that are from five to ten years old. Among the advantages are the adequate price and the possibility for further overclocking.

G.SKILL, Aegis F4-3000C16D-16GISB

Another fairly high-quality DDR4 RAM module, which has good performance in terms of operation. Among the advantages are a clock speed of three gigahertz and a bandwidth of twenty-four thousand megabits per second. It is presented in the form of two modules of eight gigabytes. XMP support is available. This solution will be the best choice for personal computers that are designed for today's demanding video games. Also, such a solution is often installed in laptops. This module has excellent performance, they will cope well with increased loads.

HyperX, Fury HX426C16FB3K2 / 16

This solution is one of the best in terms of its characteristics and price. This RAM is DDR4 and comes in a DIMM form factor. This memory has a fairly good performance in terms of operation, which can exceed even more expensive solutions. These modules have a total memory of sixteen gigabytes (two modules of 8 GB each). One of the main advantages of this solution is the presence of a radiator, which will provide additional cooling. All this will be relevant for those who assemble a computer for video games and work with demanding software. In addition, many solutions from this brand have a rather interesting appearance, which will be a good choice for cases with transparent lids.

Patriot Memory, VIPER RGB PVR416G300C5K

This DDR4 RAM also has a DIMM form factor. Among the advantages of this RAM, it can be noted that this solution is one of the most popular among PC users - on the network you can find a large number of positive reviews from real buyers. The memory capacity of this RAM is sixteen gigabytes, which are divided into two modules of eight gigabytes. An interesting feature of this module is the presence of LED backlighting, which will look beautiful in cases with a glass cover. The presence of LED backlighting will not be a factor that will greatly affect the consumption of electrical energy, but it will make the overall look quite attractive for lovers of everything bright.

ADATA, XPG Gammix D10 AX4U300038G16A-DB10

This brand may be known to many by flash drives, which are quite common on sale. If we talk about RAM, then this model is quite affordable. This RAM will be an actual choice for many users who use their computers for various purposes. The characteristics of this solution are pretty good for its price segment. The memory is presented in the form of two modules of eight gigabytes. There is support for XMP, due to which it is possible to easily overclock the RAM, reaching higher performance in terms of performance.