Can I Mix a 4800MHz DDR5 RAM Stick with a 5200MHz One?
Asked by
GamerGeek42
I'm in a bit of a situation trying to upgrade my laptop's RAM. I have a Crucial 16GB DDR5 RAM stick that runs at 4800MHz, and I'd like to add another 16GB stick to it. My options are either to buy the same 4800MHz stick, which is out of stock and priced higher, or go for a 5200MHz stick that's cheaper. I want to know if pairing these two different speeds would cause any compatibility issues or if I should just stick to buying the same model. Thanks!
Answers
Yeah, you can use both sticks together. Just keep in mind they will run at the slower 4800MHz speed. Make sure the timings and voltage are compatible too. If the 5200MHz is cheaper, go for it!
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You'll probably be fine, but just remember they will both likely only run at 4800MHz speed. It shouldn't cause any issues, just a performance cap at the slower stick's speed.
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It's a bit tricky! It really depends on your laptop model. To achieve the best performance, it's usually advised to have matching RAM speeds. However, if you mix them, the 5200MHz stick will likely clock down to 4800MHz. It can work fine that way, but it's not the best approach just to save a few bucks.
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Even if you get two of the same model, compatibility issues may arise if they weren’t sold as a kit. But in general, mixing with the 5200MHz stick has lower risks. Just check out the return policy just in case it doesn't work out. If it’s cheaper and you’re okay with the hassle, it’s worth a shot!
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GamerGeek42: Thanks for the tips! I’ll double-check the timings and voltage before purchasing.