Better to use 1 4GB stick or 2 2GB stick

[tipd]

I'm looking for new ram an i found that a single 4GB stick is cheaper than 2 2GB sticks. is there any performance difference between the two? or any other reason why 2 2GB sticks would be best.
(I have 4 RAM slots so space for more ran isn't a worry)

 

[unreal9400]

Single 4GB stick is the best for your setup with 4 RAM slot.

 

[guggi4]

2x2 is actually faster since it will run in dualchannel mode

 

[jitpublisher]

For optimal performance, as already stated above, always, always install memory in identical pairs! A single stick of memory will not run in dual channel mode and can cost you 3-7% performance.

 

[Kurifox]

Like the guy above me said, having 2x2 will make it slightly faster since they will run in dual-channel, its probably like a 10€ from 4gb to 2x2 (i estimate) so only get the 4gb ram if you plan on buying another one)in the near future), and maximazing your value

 

[chriss000]

Yes, dual channel mode will give you 8 % higher memory performance as a maximum (on my system anyway) as I tried it with 1x2 and 2x1.

 

[Tradesman1]

Depending on the CPU the increase can be upwards of 10-15% (especially with Intel CPUs that have optimized MCs (memory controllers), AMD is typically 3-8% maybe