I've been reading up on RAM configurations, and it seems like using 4 DDR5 RAM sticks can be a bit tricky in terms of stability. I'm considering a build around the upcoming 11800X3D and thinking of going for 64GB of RAM. Would it be better to get 2x32GB instead of 4x16GB, especially if I'm running Chrome on a second screen while gaming with lots of mods? I found a deal on a 2x16GB kit (6000MHz CL30) for about CAD$220 (roughly US$170), but I'm worried that this might not be an option down the road. Also, with everyone moving towards 2 sticks, what happens to the dual-rank advantages that were about a 5% performance boost in the DDR4 days?
7 Answers
It's safer to stick with a 2x32GB configuration. Memory controllers are expected to improve, but for now, going with less is the more reliable choice, especially for future stability.
Is this a widespread issue? I just ordered a set of 2x16GB sticks for my new build to hit 32GB total. Are there any articles out there that explain this better?
If you’re running 4 sticks, it can be hit or miss. If you need more than 96GB, it’s worth considering, but the performance gain from dual-rank is smaller since single rank DDR5 already has plenty of banks and groups.
Go with the 2x32GB or maybe even 2x24GB. Unless you're running super intense applications, you probably won’t need all that RAM.
Opt for a 2x32GB kit for better reliability. 4x16GB might work but likely not at the rated speeds. Historically, with AM4 and Ryzen CPUs, each generation has seen better RAM compatibility, so this pattern might continue with AM5 as well.
Most DDR5 RAM modules are actually dual-rank, even in a single stick, which complicates stability with four modules. If you’re really keen on having all four sticks for the RGB glitz, some brands offer dummy sticks that just have RGB lights but no actual memory.
I doubt most 16GB DDR5 sticks are dual-rank; it's mainly the newer 32GB ones that are.
Why do motherboards have 4 slots if most RAM is dual rank then?
I've been using 4 sticks for over 2 years now without any issues at their advertised speeds. I didn’t even know about the stability concerns until later, so maybe I just got lucky!
Many users find that 4 sticks run fine at default speeds; it's when you start overclocking, like enabling XMP, that you hit instability issues.
Check your CPU’s manufacturer page. They usually mention that speeds drop when using 4 DIMMs compared to 2, but it can still work if you get lucky with your silicon.