Can You Combine 2 4gb and 2 8gb in Dual Channel?

Pankaikz · Nov 1, 2015

This question has been asked before, but I wasn't satisfied with the wording of the question or the quality of the answer(s). So, I'm getting 2 sticks of 8 gigabyte DDR3. It's going to be in dual channel. Later on, I'd like to get 2 4 gigabyte sticks and install them along side the 8gb. I am not asking if I should or shouldn't, but rather, if I can. So, again, can I have 1 8 gb and 1 4 gb stick in each channel for a total of 2 8 gb and 2 4 gb, 12 gb per channel, 24 gb total? I should add that it'll all be the same "type". So, for example, if the 8 Gb cards are 1866 Mhz G.Skill Trident X, so would the 4 Gb cards.

syked3 · Nov 1, 2015

They can work in a dual channel configuration but you need to install the DIMMs in the correct pairs i.e. in slots A1 and B1, you have DIMMs of the same speed, CL, size and voltage.
Disclaimer: I can't guarantee this will work as mixing DRAM is often problematic

Dark Lord of Tech · Nov 1, 2015

Dram modules , even if identical , purchased at different times may or may not be compatible.

photonboy · Nov 1, 2015

So the answer is:

1) YES. In theory.

2) NO. Problems may exist due to incompatible timings etc due to using different modules.

Other:
Mixing memory also means that the automatic settings can't be easily set. Identical sticks yes though the most compatible are those bought at the same time in a kit.

Manual setting can solve a lot of issues (frequency, CAS, voltage..).

Other:
Always run MEMTEST for a full pass www.memtest.org

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Can You Combine 2 4gb and 2 8gb in Dual Channel?

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