Mixing memory types

[ProkyProkyProky]

I have just received my new Dell OptiPlex XE2 i7 with 16gb (2 x 8) DDR3 1600mhz 1.5v.

The motherboard has two further slots for more memory to be attached and I was thinking of taking out my 2 x 8gb memory modules from my previous PC to boost the new machine ....

.... BUT ....

The old memory modules are DDR3 running at 1333mhz 1.5v.

I have read that to use these the motherboard will slow down the 1600 chips to work at the same speed as the 1333 chips.

My questions is ......... does the advantage of having 32gb of DDR3 memory running at 1333mhz outweigh having just 16gb running at 1600?

Any takers?!?!?

 

[Deleted member 2121781]

Unless you really NEED 32Gb RAM, you will get better use from 16Gb of faster memory.

 

[DRagor]

First of all, you would have to test IF your old ram will work with this Dell - cos it is not guaranteed.
If it will work, then whole set will slow down to 1333 MHz. Is it worth? Probably not, unless you have software that can actually use all that 32 Gb. 16 Gb is plenty for now for most uses.

 

[ProkyProkyProky]

I use quite resource-hungry software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop which is why I was curious as to whether the extra memory would help or not.

 

[Deleted member 2121781]

I use quite resource-hungry software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop which is why I was curious as to whether the extra memory would help or not.

Oh, in that case, go for the 32Gb. It will run @ 1333Mhz, but you might want to watch out for timings. The latency might be higher than normal with mixing the kits. Check the bios and adjust the timings as needed, if you feel the need to do so.