Question Don't know how to choose additional RAM :(

[Ander00]

My laptop: Dell Inspiration G3

My RAM (text on the RAM):

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8GB 1Rx8 PC4-2666V-SA1-11
HMA81GS6AFR8N-VK NO AC 1802
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(brand: SK Hynix)

So I am going to upgrade my 8GB RAM to 16 by using another 8GB to second slot. I think my best option is buy the exact same RAM as I have in first slot. BUT I can't find it. I found a lot of similiar ones. With one or more differnet letters/numbers. I don't know what is what, so I don't know which symbols matter and which not. Or shouldn't I be finding by this informations? Should I just find some ram with exact same parameters and buy this? Some fast guide to me would be really helpful, thanks.

 

[PC Tailor]

Welcome to the forums my friend!

Just remember that RAM is only guaranteed in the form sold (from the same packs). Regardless as to the make / model / timings. This is because the manufacturing process changes frequently, so technically 2 of the same model, could actually be manufactured differently, and therefore not be compatible.

Making sure they are the same timings etc. is a way of minimising the risk, not eliminating it. So realistically if you are already planning on mixing RAM modules, you're probably at no extra risk finding a different model, but one that shares the same timings etc.

Not saying it never works, but it's a 50/50 gamble. This is why it's best practice to buy a whole new pack when upgrading.

In effect if you are going to mix, try and equalise:

• Speed/frequency (3000, 3200, 2666 etc.)
• Voltage
• Cas Latency (CL16, CL17 etc.)

But again, even if you find the exact same, no guarantee.

 

[Ander00]

Welcome to the forums my friend!

Just remember that RAM is only guaranteed in the form sold (from the same packs). Regardless as to the make / model / timings. This is because the manufacturing process changes frequently, so technically 2 of the same model, could actually be manufactured differently, and therefore not be compatible.

Making sure they are the same timings etc. is a way of minimising the risk, not eliminating it. So realistically if you are already planning on mixing RAM modules, you're probably at no extra risk finding a different model, but one that shares the same timings etc.

Not saying it never works, but it's a 50/50 gamble. This is why it's best practice to buy a whole new pack when upgrading.

In effect if you are going to mix, try and equalise:

• Speed/frequency (3000, 3200, 2666 etc.)
• Voltage
• Cas Latency (CL16, CL17 etc.)

But again, even if you find the exact same, no guarantee.

Thanks, this is really helpful.
So I dont need to look at company/brand of RAM at all? All I need to do to minimalize risk is to check if parameters and timings are same?

 

[PC Tailor]

Thanks, this is really helpful.
So I dont need to look at company/brand of RAM at all? All I need to do to minimalize risk is to check if parameters and timings are same?

Well ideally you need to buy a whole new pack of RAM

All I'm saying is if you are mixing anyway, there is probably (realistically) no different risk in going for a different model but with the same parameters. Just trying to get them to match is better than buying two completely different types of RAM.