RAM problem: PC3 10600 vs 12800

[mtastum]

I have a Clevo P170EM laptop with 8gb RAM. I would like to upgrade to 16gb but unsure of what types of RAM will work with it.

The type I currently have installed is 8gb (2x4) Samsung PC3-12800 (800MHz) DDR3 RAM (which I figure is SO-DIMM)

If I want to upgrade, what type of RAM can be used in my pc?

I am looking at G-Skill or Crucial 2x4 204pin DDR3 SO-DIMM RAM right now, but they are both PC3 10600. Would this matter to my laptop or can I use both 12800 and 10600 at the same time?

Thanks for your help!

 

[CraigN]

If you did, normally your memory would downclock to match the slower RAM. It would be more ideal if you matched the speeds. The best thing to do would be to match the sticks, because the timings are important. If you can't find the same Samsung RAM, you need to find RAM sticks with at least the same CAS timings. Look up what the CAS timings are on your sticks against the ones you want to buy.