I recently purchased a laptop with 16GB of DDR5 RAM and an empty slot. I'm considering adding a 48GB RAM stick to reach a total of 64GB. Is it okay to mix these different sizes, or should I stick to using two RAM sticks of the same size? I've previously used dual 32GB sticks in my old DDR4 laptop, but now I'm not sure how this setup will work. I need the extra RAM since the software I run often requires 40-50GB of memory. Will it lead to performance issues if I go this route?
4 Answers
You can definitely use a 48GB stick and the 16GB one, but I would recommend using two modules of the same size if possible for better performance. Mixing sizes might prevent your system from utilizing the dual-channel advantage fully, which could slow things down.
Generally, it will work fine, but mixing RAM can lead to unexpected results. Both sticks should be of the same DDR generation and voltage to avoid issues. Just keep an eye on the compatibility list from your laptop’s manufacturer for the best results.
Mixing different RAM sizes can work, but it might not perform the way you expect. DDR5 RAM is designed to use memory channels effectively, so your CPU will distribute data across the channels. However, using different sizes might lead to reduced stability and performance issues in some cases. It's best to stick with a matched kit for your laptop to avoid any compatibility hiccups.
It should technically work, but you might not get optimal performance. If you can afford to, it's usually better to have matching RAM sticks for the best efficiency. Check the specifications of your laptop too, as some might only support up to 32GB per module.
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