Hey everyone! I'm curious about mixing DDR5 RAM with different speeds. I have a Crucial 16GB DDR5 5600MHz and I'm considering adding a Crucial 16GB DDR5 running at 4800MHz. They have different CL numbers too (CL46 and CL40). I know that the system will run at the lower speed, but I'm wondering if this setup could cause any problems for my laptop. I previously had an 8GB Samsung DDR5 5600MHz alongside the Crucial 16GB DDR5 5600MHz, and I'm looking to replace the Samsung stick with this 4800MHz module.
5 Answers
Combining different speeds of RAM isn't typically supported, and I've seen many people have issues with system stability when they try it. Some manufacturers like Dell even throttle the RAM speed down to a very low safe mode if they detect mixed RAM, which can significantly impact performance.
Mixing different RAM sticks often defaults to the slower speed, especially in laptops where you have limited options to adjust settings. Just make sure both sticks work together, as compatibility can vary.
It's generally not a good idea to mix RAM since it can lead to instability or boot failures, particularly with DDR5. You’ve already been running a mixed configuration, so you might be fine, but be prepared for the possibility that it may not boot up.
Besides running at the slower speed, you might face minimal issues, although compatibility can be hit or miss depending on your motherboard.
In most cases, it should work fine at the slower speed. Just be aware that sometimes the RAM may not work together at all depending on your motherboard.
Related Questions
Lenovo Thinkpad Stuck In Update Loop Install FilterDriverU2_Reload