Quad Channel or Dual Channel?!?

[thegeekfather]

I don't know much when it comes to RAM (please don't tell me to read that FAQ! ).. I have decided on getting 16GB of RAM for stuff like video editing and all.. I also plan on making it a Hackintosh for using software like Final Cut Pro (also because I love Mac OS X!). I have already checked compatibility for my components so the Hackintosh thing is just extra information for you guys.

The main problem is that I don't know whether I should go for four 4GB RAM sticks or two 8GB ones. How to assess the two options and which is the best?

My new-to-come rig -

Intel Core i7 3770K
Gigabyte GA-Z77X-UD5H
MSI GeForce GTX 670 Power Edition
16GB (you tell me what config! ) Corsair Vengeance 1600MHz DDR3
NZXT Phantom 410 Mid-Tower


Thanks for your replies!

 

[cin19]

For the Z77, even you add 4 of RAM into the MB, RAM will still run in the dual channel mode. RAM will only run the Quad Channel mode in the X79 (LGA2011) MB.

IMO you should get the 2X8GB RAM, because the kit will use less power and put less stress on your board. The 2x8GB 1600MHz/1866MHz* Cl9 is the one you want to buy, because it has the best the ratio of perfomance/price.

* If you can find the 1866MHz has the similar price with 1600MHz.

http://www.bit-tech.net/hardware/memory/2011/01/11/the-best-memory-for-sandy-bridge/9

 

[thegeekfather]

For the Z77, even you add 4 of RAM into the MB, RAM will still run in the dual channel mode. RAM will only run the Quad Channel mode in the X79 (LGA2011) MB.

IMO you should get the 2X8GB RAM, because the kit will use less power and put less stress on your board. The 2x8GB 1600MHz/1866MHz* Cl9 is the one you want to buy, because it has the best the ratio of perfomance/price.

* If you can find the 1866MHz has the similar price with 1600MHz.

http://www.bit-tech.net/hardware/memory/2011/01/11/the-best-memory-for-sandy-bridge/9

Ya, I knew that. But what I meant was what was better, four sticks or two.. Anyway thanks.

 

[cin19]

IMO two is better, you should get the 2X8GB RAM, because the kit will use less power and put less stress on your board.

 

[thegeekfather]

Best answer selected by thegeekfather.

 

[thegeekfather]

IMO two is better, you should get the 2X8GB RAM, because the kit will use less power and put less stress on your board.

Okay, thanks for the answer!