16GB of RAM (2x8) or (4x4) which way is better?

2x8 is faster, you can usually use command rate: 1T with 2 sticks, and also have access to 1600mhz for 2 sticks. NOT SURE you can get 1T and 1600mhz on 4 sticks with Ivy Bridge.

EDIT: I should mention that the performance difference isn't LARGE, but noticeable in benchmarks and specific usage scenarios. However, having 2 open slots allows you to expand later on, AND from computing history, 2 sticks is a lot less possible compatibility issues than 4.

16 gig will NOT improve gaming .

Even 8 gig wont make a noticeable difference over 4 gig

So there is no difference between the two in gaming or editing. I’m not gonna use the computer just for gaming, but also in editing and recording videos.

I decided to go with 2x8 sticks. Thanks, guys.

I found 2x8 sticks with 9-9-9-24 timing. Should I get it? Or just take the 10-10-10-27?


It’s CMZ16GX3M2A1600C9. Is it compatible with ASUS P8Z77-V Pro?

That exact model (CMZ16GX3M2A1600C9) is on ASUS's first PDF on QVL memory compatibility. It is 100% tested and reported by ASUS to work at 1600mhz, specified voltages and settings.

Go with the 9-9-9 timings set. Tighter timings mean slightly better performance.

You’re amazing!! Hhhhh. Thank you so much!

Thank you, guys! You’re the best!

Hi, Maxx.

Please, tell me in which version of QVL PDF?
I can't found any information about compatibility of this module (about ANY "CMZ 1600 CL9" 2x or 4x 8GB module) in four downloadable PDFs.

CMZ16GX3M2A1600C9 doesn't work on my PBZ77-V Pro and i7 3770K in dual-channel mode.
Only single module in B2 channel. (After BIOS update both modules in B1/B2 channels...)

I don't know if this is 'incompatibility issue only' or bad piece of RAM or MB. :-(

This is weird. Have you tried setting the BIOS settings for the RAM to XMP mode ? Some of these sticks running at 1600mhz requires XMP support to be enabled explicitly.

I'm double checking the QVL now.

Okay, I can't find that exact model number in the 4 QVL PDFs. It is possible I overlooked the model numbers (they are very similar...).

However, these are advertised to support XMP 1.3 and are launched this summer, so they should work on any modern Intel board.

When you tried slots A2+B2, the board won't POST ? Does ANY of the sticks work in A1/A2 by itself without any in the B slots ?

If none would work in the A slots (with B empty), then it sounds like a board issue with the A slots.