Can I run 8gbx2 ram in dual channel and the later add like 16gb for the 3rd slot to run total 32gb ram

[9flame654]

I'm wondering if I buy a pair of 8gb rams and then later buy a 16 gb ram so in total use 3 slots for 32gb ram or will I have to buy another pair of 8gnx2 ram instead of just one 16gb

 

[julienruc]

I would suggest always buying in pairs (meaning dual channel and not two individual 8gb sticks). So if you but 2x8 now, I would suggest going for another 2x8 in the future. Don't forget to check your motherboard specs to see the RAM specs you can add.

 

[asoroka]

Or go for 1 x 16GB now and expand later.

But yes provided that your motherboard can accept 16GB sticks you should be able to run 1 or 2 16GB sticks giving you 32GB or 48GB.

Having said that it is a lot easier to get matched RAM, otherwise you may have to manually adjust bios to the lowest performance numbers. there is a small chance that mismatched RAM may not play nicely, although in 20 years i have never had a problem.

 

[Paul NZ]

First thing I would check is.

How many slots does it have and how much ram does it support?

If it's got 4 slots and supports up to 32 GB you cant install 2x8 GB and 1 16 GB stick

You can only install 4x4, or 4x8 GB sticks