I'm building a PC for my son, and with RAM prices being so high, I have two options. I can spend $109 on a 2x8GB kit of 3200MT RAM from Corsair, or I could go for a more budget-friendly 4x4GB 2666 kit from Crucial, which is only $40. My setup includes an AMD Ryzen 5500, and while I'm aware that the 3200 kit will be easier on the memory controller, I'm trying to stick to a budget since I have to buy gifts for my other kids this Christmas. Will going with the 4GB kit really impact performance? Here's the part list I'm working with: [https://pcpartpicker.com/list/z2NVsp](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/z2NVsp). I also have two spare SSDs, Windows ready to go, and I'm considering either a 12GB 3060 or the less popular 5060, along with contemplating an Intel B570 motherboard due to cost but I'm unfamiliar with Intel GPUs. The games he'll be playing are Minecraft, Roblox, Fortnite, Doom, and Battlefield, all at 1080p. I'd appreciate any insights!
2 Answers
Definitely think twice about the 4GB kit. While both RAM kits will run in dual-channel mode, going with a 2666MHz option could reduce your performance, especially in gaming. If you can, connect via Ethernet instead of Bluetooth since it tends to interfere with WiFi. Just a heads up from my experience!
I'd recommend going for the cheaper 4x4GB kit if you're on a budget; it should perform decently for the games your son is playing. Also, instead of worrying about an add-in WiFi/Bluetooth card, try to find a motherboard with integrated WiFi to save you some money overall. If you're considering GPUs, a used one could offer better performance than the 5060, so keep that in mind!
Actually, both kits would run in dual-channel just fine. Plus, Ethernet is always the way to go if you can help it; Bluetooth can just complicate your setup sometimes.