12gb or 16gb

[severe_downs]

Currently my cpu and ram are bottlenecking my gpu in games like Overwatch. My current setup is rx 580, ryzen 1400, 8gb ddr4 2400. Im thinking of upgrading my 8gb to 12gb to get the dual channel which will improve performance overall, but im not sure if adding 4gb will be as significant as 8gb. Considering ram prices, i would rather go with a 4gb stick.

 

[tambeshakunt]

It is always best to buy matched sets of RAM rather than buying individual sticks, especially to take advantage of dual channel. Next best option would be to buy an identical 8gb kit as you currently have - by identical I mean exactly the same part number to ensure compatibility.

 

[severe_downs]

It is always best to buy matched sets of RAM rather than buying individual sticks, especially to take advantage of dual channel. Next best option would be to buy an identical 8gb kit as you currently have - by identical I mean exactly the same part number to ensure compatibility.

If i were to buy a similar stick (i.e. same frequency) would it work too? Since the the exact ram stick i have is currently overpriced for where I can find it.

 

[Toxic_Cobra]

Mixing ram may or may not work, no one suggests it. Either sell your ram and buy a full 16gb kit or buy the exact same ram and cross your fingers. Mix and matching has no promise to work.

 

[tambeshakunt]

It is always best to buy matched sets of RAM rather than buying individual sticks, especially to take advantage of dual channel. Next best option would be to buy an identical 8gb kit as you currently have - by identical I mean exactly the same part number to ensure compatibility.

If i were to buy a similar stick (i.e. same frequency) would it work too? Since the the exact ram stick i have is currently overpriced for where I can find it.

Exact is much more preferable. You can buy exact same frequency and class latency and hope for the best but results aren't guaranteed.