"4 x 1GB" or "2 x 2GB" - Faster Configuration?

[Satsuki]

Hello, TH community!

I was wondering if anyone knows if there is a boost in performance when using a 4 x 1GB configuration of memory compared to 2 x 2GB. Two dual channels sounds faster than one dual channel, no? Similar to RAID?

Anyone have articles or publications on this type of comparison?

Satsuki

Comments to exclude:
Cost benefits
Upgradability

 

[GhislainG]

No. Dual channel simply means that both channels are used. Each channel can have one or two modules.

 

[Satsuki]

No. Dual channel simply means that both channels are used. Each channel can have one or two modules.

lol... what?

Can't motherboards that have four DIMMs be divided up into two dual channels configurations? Wouldn't that theoretically give the CPU even greater bandwidth to the RAM? I assume it would only work with multi-core processors.

What do you think?

 

[GhislainG]

The cost/benefits isn't worth it.

 

[megamanx00]

2x2 GB is better in that it's easier to overclock or you have the option of simply adding another 2x2GB latter for a total of 8GB. The only upside to the 4x1GB is that you can get the RAM with lower timings.

 

[cjl]

2x2GB is the better choice.

 

[jitpublisher]

The new Phenom's do this. They have 2 memory controllers onboard, and each controller runs a bank of memory. Or if you only have 2 sticks, they should be defaulting to unganged/single channel mode, and each controller runs a stick. In theory, it is supposed to be faster allowing each controller to work independant of the other.
Benchmarking shows slight performance improvement in some situations. Most of the time there is no difference.

4 gig? Just by 2 x2 sticks. You have a lot less trouble and many times you have to underclock or relax timings to get 4 sticks to play nicely together.