4GB vs 6GB in laptops

[Forever Oleg]

Hello. I'm planning to buy a LAPTOP for schoolwork, low end gaming (source based games, minecraft, CS:GO etc) and a little but of rare video editing. I may record those games with OBS as well. So here's the question: Is 2x2 dual channel in laptops better than 4+2 single channel config? Is it relevant to what I am doing? Is 4GB enough or will I benefit more from 6GB? Plz give a reasonable answer. Also can 4+2 be in dual channel?

 

[joex444]

4+2 can sort of be in dual channel, you'll have the first 4GB in dual channel and last 2GB in single channel. Based on that and the fact 6 > 4, you'll benefit more from 6GB. Now I'm curious why your options don't include 2x4GB for 8GB in dual channel.

 

[Forever Oleg]

I have a really low budget. In my price range my only options for RAM are 4gb or 6gb. Both laptops have 2 RAM slots. So is 2+2 in dual channel better than 4+2 in single channel for what I do?

 

[Saberus]

More is better, performance between single and dual channel is not all that noticeable unless you have the two side by side to see.

 

[Forever Oleg]

Im looking at these two: http://www.microcenter.com/product/450744/Aspire_E5-573-35AQ_156_Laptop_Computer_-_Charcoal_Gray http://www.microcenter.com/product/444958/G50_156_Laptop_Computer_-_Black They are practically of equal power. The only difference is that one has 4GB and the other has 6GB and it is $40 price difference. Also if you have better bang for the buck suggestions plz leave them here. I would greatly appreciate. Plz help!

 

[Saberus]

The Acer has a newer, slightly faster processor with a better Integrated Graphics Processor, and a gigabit NIC, and all for a bit cheaper. With the savings, you can get this: http://www.microcenter.com/product/409718/4GB_DDR3-1600_(PC3-12800)_CL11_SO-DIMM_Laptop_Memory_Module

Then you'll have 8GB dual channel and have the newer CPU, iGP, and a gigabit NIC for less than the Lenovo.

(That is if the specs on the Acer are right and you have 1x 4GB DIMM.)

 

[Forever Oleg]

I heard Acer E5 series laptops are really hard to upgrade. They say you have to work your way from the keyboard to the back. Is that true? Also I'm very good with building desktops but laptop tech is another universe for me so if doing stuff to Acer E5 series laptops is as hard as they say, I might pass and get the Lenovo or stay with 4GB on the Acer if there isn't much difference for what I do. Is there?

 

[Forever Oleg]

I know e5 551 laptops only have access from the keyboard side. E5 573 might have the same problem with upgrading so I don't know. Also by adding RAM I will void the warranty. Is that correct?

 

[Saberus]

From what I can see online, the E5 573G can be accessed from the bottom after taking out the screws. Yours should be similar.

As far as voiding the warranty, it is possible. Best way to know is to contact Acer support beforehand and ask. You could also see if Microcenter will install the memory for you, having a shop install upgrades is usually non-voiding.

 

[Saberus]

and 8GB is going to help with things, it's starting to become the standard baseline for smooth performance.

 

[Forever Oleg]

It looks like Acer laptop is the way to go. I could probably make MicroCenter to install ram for me if it doesn't void the warranty. If it does I'll just deal with 4GB. It doesn't look like it's too much of a big deal. Thank you!

 

[Saberus]

Even with a little less memory, the Acer is the better spec'd machine. I hope it gives you years of reliable service.

 

[Forever Oleg]

Thanks bro