Please help me understand which is better and why...

[erenas4]

8GB total memory....

4x2GB

or

2x4GB

Does it make a difference?

 

[jaquith]

2x4GB is easier on the CPU's IMC and to a very small degree faster. Like looking up a number in 2 separate phone books - but doing it crazy fast. Also, 2X_GB can run at Faster Frequencies and Faster (lower) CAS Timings. The increased DIMMs often run leaner powering 4x_GB sets so to correct additional DIMM (DRAM) Voltage and/or QPI/VTT/VCCIO CPU IMC voltages often are required.

 

[beenthere]

The above info. is accurate and useful. Unfortunately DDR3 RAM has plenty of speed and bandwidth so OC'ing produces minimal gains. 2x 4GB. is almost always cheaper and the best choice.

 

[erenas4]

Best answer selected by erenas4.