DDR3 RAM 2x4GB vs 4GB + 8GB = 12GB

[Scott Baban]

I'm using a P8H61-M LX3 PLUS motherboard with a i5-3470 + 2x4GB RAM...

Would like to upgrade to 4GB + 8GB = 12GB of RAM, is that a problem?

Is 2x4GB better than 4GB + 8GB?

TIA.

 

[Dunlop0078]

You likely wont be able to run a 4 and 8gb stick in dual channel mode, if it works at all. So depending on the application a 2x4gb kit in dual channel mode might suit you better than an 8gb and 4gb stick in single channel. For gaming I would probably stick with 2x4gb in dual channel mode. For productivity 4+8gb might suit you better depending on the application, not sure.

 

[Scott Baban]

You likely wont be able to run a 4 and 8gb stick in dual channel mode, if it works at all. So depending on the application a 4x4gb kit in dual channel mode might suit you better than an 8gb and 4gb stick in single channel. For gaming I would probably stick with 2x4gb in dual channel mode. For productivity 4+8gb might suit you better depending on the application, not sure.

It gets a little bit laggy when I stream with 2x4gb hoping a 1x4 and a 1x8 would help...

 

[Dunlop0078]

You are sure it is getting laggy because of RAM usage? More RAM will only help if you are using all of what you have. What is RAM usage in task manager when you are streaming?

 

[Scott Baban]

You are sure it is getting laggy because of RAM usage? More RAM will only help if you are using all of what you have. What is RAM usage in task manager when you are streaming?

90 utmost, I have a problem minimizing when it reaches high usage.

 

[Dunlop0078]

You are sure it is getting laggy because of RAM usage? More RAM will only help if you are using all of what you have. What is RAM usage in task manager when you are streaming?

90 utmost, I have a problem minimizing when it reaches high usage.

CPU usage? My guess is your CPU is going to be a problem while streaming before the RAM is.

 

[Calvin7]

You asked, "Would like to upgrade to 4GB + 8GB = 12GB of RAM, is that a problem?".

No memory manufacturer would guarantee that combination to work or how it would work if your PC boots up.

Memory is guaranteed in the form sold.

 

[geofelt]

Your motherboard has only two ram slots.
If you want more ram, buy a 2 x 8gb kit and sell the old ram or keep it as a spare.

In theory, replacing one of the 4gb sticks with 8gb might give you 12gb.

8gb would run in dual channel mode and the odd 4gb in single channel mode.

The problem is that
Ram is sold in kits for a reason.
A motherboard must manage all the ram using the same specs of voltage, cas and speed.
The internal workings are designed for the capacity of the kit.
Ram from the same vendor and part number can be made up of differing manufacturing components over time.
Some motherboards, can be very sensitive to this.

What is your plan "B" if the new stick/s do not work?

Better to buy a single 2 x 8gb kit up front.