Buy another 4gb ddr2 memory kit?

[blitzcrank]

Hello. I'm running on older tech, a Core2Duo with 4 GB of DDR2 memory (http://www.newegg.ca/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231166). I do feel that after my HDD (which I'm about to upgrade to a Samsung EVO) my next bottle neck is my memory.
30-40 tabs isn't uncommon and I'd like more flexibility to run virtualization.

1) Is it worth buying the kit linked above? Do I have to get another pair that matches what I have already in my case or can I even go with something slower/cheaper like DDR2 800?

2) Although its unlikely I will upgrade my mobo any time soon, I imagine none of the DD2 will be usable on newer boards?

 

[kelvin08113]

I suggest not buy as it's an old board and it's using DDR2. Buy a 2x4GB DDR3 when you consider to buy a new board and CPU.

 

[Dom_79]

You are not likely to see much of an upgrade with more ram unless you run very mem intense programs or many apps at the same time. For general use the 4GB should be fine.
Having said that I'm about to upgrade a Core 2 Duo with an SSD and feel the same way about upgrading the ram (I use memory intense apps) and have found that Everyone will tell you to get the same exact ram as possible to avoid as many non compatibility issues as possible. The link you posted looks like a good set of ram to get a second set at a reasonable price . You would be doing yourself a BIG disservice going to a lower MHz if you are after performance.

 

[Spitfire7]

I have a similar forum question going and all Im hearing is that you need to match exactly everything together and buy it all in a kit that is tested to run together. It has been said, I can buy 2 more sticks, but there is only 75% chance that it will work. I am having to most likely buy all 4 new 2GB sticks that come together in a pack that have been tested together to get my 8GB. You're asking for trouble if you mismatch or even buy the same stick at a later time. Im, only going by what they have told me so far.

 

[Dom_79]

I have a similar forum question going and all Im hearing is that you need to match exactly everything together and buy it all in a kit that is tested to run together. It has been said, I can buy 2 more sticks, but there is only 75% chance that it will work. I am having to most likely buy all 4 new 2GB sticks that come together in a pack that have been tested together to get my 8GB. You're asking for trouble if you mismatch or even buy the same stick at a later time. Im, only going by what they have told me so far.

Yeah I had read that thread. That is where I got some of my information about this subject. What they are saying is true however, the chances of mismatch are (from what I've been told by some of the people in my family and at work) are less than 25% IF the RAM is the same type (voltage, latency, make, model) as long as your are not looking to overclock. I've been told it's closer to 85- 90% that they will match. Also if you can find the sticks at a local store and they don't pair with your others you can return them and try another set- not all stores will be cool with that and will charge you a restocking fee, so ask first.