I'm currently using an ASUS ROG STRIX B350F Gaming motherboard with a 5700X3D processor and 16GB of G.Skill Trident Z RAM (2x8GB) at 3200MHz. Lately, I've been feeling that 16GB just isn't enough, especially since I game in 4K with a 9070XT. I'm looking to upgrade to 32GB of RAM, but I'm torn between two options: Should I just add two more 8GB sticks to make it 4x8GB at 3200MHz, or should I replace my current RAM with 2x16GB sticks at either 3200MHz or 3600MHz? The option to replace seems more expensive, so I'd prefer to stick with the first option unless it proves ineffective. Also, will my motherboard support all four sticks running at 3200MHz, or will there be a bottleneck? And regarding the 3600MHz option, can my motherboard handle that speed? I've already checked the manual, and it doesn't seem to account for my current setup working, so I'm a bit doubtful about the compatibility.
1 Answer
I’d recommend swapping out for a 2x16GB 3200CL16 or 3600CL18 kit if you can. It’s usually just a bit over $45 to $50. Just know that the B350 is older, so it may not officially support the newer CPUs, but a lot of users have had success after the fact. Plus, you might not notice huge gains if you go with the 4x8GB setup regarding speed, since your board is limited.
That’s a good point! Still, you think the 3600MHz option will work? Is it limited by the motherboard or just the CPU’s memory controller?