Question Is the max supported memory capacity limited by the CPU or the motherboard?

[awingray]

Hi,



So I have an i5 8250U which supports 32 GB maximum but according to the manufacturer's specification, it states the following:

Now I understand there is embedded memory in the motherboard, and one free slot to upgrade (at least in my model).



Currently the the on-board ram is 4gb + 4gb DDR4 in extra slot.



I'm confused by the "max 16 GB", is that total capacity limit? as in the most I could upgrade is an 8gb stick? Or is the "max" just for the onboard memory since this is a specification for a lot of models.



I'm sorry for my confused ass.



Would really appreciate if someone could clarify before I bomb out on a 16gb stick.

 

[MrN1ce9uy]

Both the CPU and the motherboard have memory limits. Smaller motherboards will often have lower memory limits than the CPU.

 

[awingray]

Both the CPU and the motherboard have memory limits. Smaller motherboards will often have lower memory limits than the CPU.

Ergo capacity is bottlenecked by the motherboard... So basically I only have 12 gb of memory available to add right.

 

[MrN1ce9uy]

Your best solution is to use 2x8GB of the same speed RAM, best to be bought as a kit to ensure compatibility with each other.