Best memory for Dell XPS 420

[dgdky]

Dell states that the computer can use either DDR2 667-MHz or DDR2 800-MHz. Configuration is : Intel Core 2 Duo Processor E8500 (6MB L2 Cache,3.16GHz,1333FSB). Since FSB is 1333, is 667 best (would obviously rather use the faster 800 if compatible)? Thanks

 

[cin19]

Like you say either is fine but just get the cheaper if you can find. If you want you can find the performances has small different between them online, google "DDR2 800Mhz vs DDR2667 MHz".

 

[Legohouse]

Dell states that the computer can use either DDR2 667-MHz or DDR2 800-MHz. Configuration is : Intel Core 2 Duo Processor E8500 (6MB L2 Cache,3.16GHz,1333FSB). Since FSB is 1333, is 667 best (would obviously rather use the faster 800 if compatible)? Thanks

Yes, your system supports both the memory speeds. However, to make the decision you must first analyze what are the possible options:

A: If you are trying to get a new memory and install it along with the existing memory then going with the same speed is right option. (It doesn't matter which you speed, even if you have DDR2-533 or DDR2-400, I would like you to stick with it). It is not mandatory but mixing speeds will automatically downclock the faster speed to the lowest speed. FYI, your system supports Dual channel memory architecture so mixing speeds is not a good option.

B: If you are planning to replace the existing memory and install just the new memory modules then going with the fastest speed is a better idea. (in this case DDR2-800).

Comparing DDR2-677MHz vs DDR2-800MHz: There isn't much difference you are gonna notice, having said that you must know 800MHz is theoretically faster than 667MHz.

Conclusion: Althoug DDR2-677MHz has the same latency has DDR2-800MHz, DDR2-800MHz has both the best latency (eg. CL4) and the higher clock speed over the former (DDR2-667MHz). Coupled with the fact your system has dual channel feature I think DDR2-800MHz is far better than DDR2-667MHz. And I would recommend this speed any day. Price-wise both are saem, so why not go with the faster and get the best for what you pay for? Just saying. In the end, you have to decide which you think meets your need.

Click here --> Memory Upgrade for Dell XPS 420

Good luck with the upgrade. Sayonara

 

[Kisianik]

I can add only one thing - go with Crucial, since it is most likely to work with any old Dell, 99% guaranteed!