Can someone help me select ram memory for my first pc build?

[nomonkeysalexa]

I'm a first time builder and I have a question about choosing appropriate ram memory for my new soo-to-be-awesome pc. I'm not sure what size of ram stick to put in, how may sticks, and I could use any and all advice / expertise.

I bought the following motherboard ...
MSI 785GT-E63 Socket AM2+ 785G ATX Motherboard
http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0332148

here's the processor...
http://www.newegg.com/product/product.aspx?item=n82e16819103649

from what I know, the motherboard has 4 ram slots with 16gb max capacity. I'm not a gamer, I'm just looking to build a great home pc that won't get bogged down once many applications are open.

I've been thinking about buying 4 sticks of 1gb ram, actually I bought this from officemax, but it's on backorder. Recently, someone told me I should not do this because loading up all 4 slots will slow the computer down. His recommendation was to purchase 2 x 2gb of ram, and leave two slots open.

I'm terribly confused, so here's my question... how much ram should I buy total, how many sticks of ram and how big should each stick be?

Any and all help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!

 

[chefboyeb]

4 gigs in 2x2gb should be fine...

 

[saint19]

Hi newcomer and welcome to the Tom's hardware forum.

U can go with this G.Skill 4GB (2x2GB) 800MHz or this Crucial Ballistix Tracer 4GB (2x2GB) 800MHz