1 vs 2 vs 4 sticks

[ceejaysurio]

I will be buying a new memory of 16gb. Which is better? 1 piece of 1x16, 2 pieces of 2x4 8gb, or 2x8gb?

 

[panathas]

Usually 2 sticks is the best choice, since you'll be able to take advantage of the dual channel mode that all modern architectures have. That said there a few exceptions to this rule but they are platform specific. So we need to know more info about the rest of your system in order to give you more advice.

 

[ceejaysurio]

Usually 2 sticks is the best choice, since you'll be able to take advantage of the dual channel mode that all modern architectures have. That said there a few exceptions to this rule but they are platform specific. So we need to know more info about the rest of your system in order to give you more advice.

Thank you

 

[TJ Hooker]

What CPU and motherboard do you have?

 

[geofelt]

Assuming your motherboard is only dual channel capable, a 2 x 8gb kit is best.
Never buy disparate parts, ram must be matched to work properly.

Then, particularly for a ryzen build check for compatibility.
You want documented ram compatibility. If you should ever have a problem, you want supported ram.
Otherwise, you risk a finger pointing battle between the ram and motherboard support sites, claiming "not my problem".
One place to check is your motherboards web site.
Look for the ram QVL list. It lists all of the ram kits that have been tested with that particular motherboard.
Sometimes the QVL list is not updated after the motherboard is released.
For more current info, go to a ram vendor's web site and access their ram selection configurator.
Enter your motherboard, and you will get a list of compatible ram kits.
While today's motherboards are more tolerant of different ram, it makes sense to buy ram that is known to work and is supported.