I recently upgraded my PC's RAM from 8GB to 16GB. I installed another 8GB stick that's 2666 MHz, exactly like my existing one. However, I'm experiencing random crashes while playing games like Albion Online and CS2. Sometimes it even leads to a Blue Screen of Death error stating: 'Irql_not_less_or_equal'. I ran Windows Memory Diagnostic, but it didn't find any issues. What could be causing these crashes?
1 Answer
Mixing different RAM kits can cause major issues, including crashes like what you're experiencing. Even if the new RAM has the same capacity and speed, if they’re from different manufacturers or have different timings, it can lead to instability. It’s usually best to use a matched set, like two identical sticks, which are tested to work together. You might want to look into that to resolve your crashing problem.
Does it really have to be a matched pair? Like, if I just buy another stick of the same kind I just got, will that work? Also, would mixing brands be okay if I end up with a majority from one brand?