I'm choosing 32GB of DDR4 for a build with an i5-14400F, an Asus Prime B760M-A D4, and an RTX 5070. It will be used for 3D printing, design, modeling, and gaming. Is there a reason to pick 2x16GB over 4x8GB?
Should I get 2x16GB or 4x8GB of RAM for modeling and gaming?
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8h!copperhinge_457
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I'd go with a matched 2x16GB kit if the prices are close. You get the same total capacity, leave two slots open for a possible upgrade, and generally have an easier time getting the RAM to run at its advertised settings than with four sticks.
Put the two sticks in the slots recommended by the motherboard manual so both memory channels are used.
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Four sticks aren't automatically a problem, especially on a DDR4 system. If a matched 4x8GB kit is noticeably cheaper and you don't expect to add RAM later, it's a reasonable choice. Check the kit's rated speed and the board's compatibility information before buying.
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One clarification: four sticks do not give this system four memory channels. Both 2x16GB and 4x8GB can use dual channel.
Rank layout is a separate thing. Four single-rank 8GB sticks can offer rank interleaving, while a pair of dual-rank 16GB sticks can also provide it. Not every 16GB stick is dual rank, though, and the actual performance difference depends on the kit and workload. I wouldn't choose four sticks just assuming they'll be faster.
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Vesnor.4k:
Four sticks can still be harder on the memory controller at higher speeds. If the advertised profile isn't stable, you may need to run them slower.