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Mixing RAM or simply buying the same RAM.

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June 16, 2013 4:23:41 AM

Hi, I'd like to know if it's okay to mix two different brands of Desktop RAM? The specifications are essentially the same with the one stick I'm intending on buying being 2GB DDR3-1333, 240 pin, PC3-10600 Rating, CL9-9-9-25 timing, 1.5V and my current RAM being 4GB DDR3-1333, 240 pin, PC3-10700, CL9-9-9-24 timing, 1.5V. Also, would I be better off getting the exact same kind of RAM?

More about : mixing ram simply buying ram

June 16, 2013 5:12:41 AM

In theory, ram with the same specs but different makers should work together, but in practice there are usually subtle differences that may or may not cause issues.

How is your ram configured now? 1x4gb or 2x2gb? How many slots in your m/b? Adding a single stick is generally not a good idea - if your m/b is dual channel capable (most are), a single stick will hinder not help. If you are using a triple channel m/b, the three sticks will work.

What motherboard?

Mark
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June 16, 2013 6:14:04 AM

It is probably not going to work because the timing of the sticks are different plus you have different capacities, etc. Nothing about those sticks matches except the advertised speeds. I would try to find another one of the 4GB sticks that you have that matches perfectly especially the same manufacturer & model/type.
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June 16, 2013 9:00:08 AM

This mixing is a common misconception dating back to DDR and DDR2 days - While YES it can be done, overall, more often than not as most all DRAM manufacturers will attest to, the bulk of the RMAs they have are from people mixing sets and not being able to gt them to work, about 80% of these returns have no problems with the sticks. With DDR3 generally 1333 and 1600 can be made to play nice with vltage adjustments (DRAM and MC), but best not to bother. Faster sticks 1600 and above are even more complicated, most people don't have the knowledge of advanced DRAM timings to manipulate those settings
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