2x8gb or 4x4gb

[alexk33]

Hey guys,
Thanks for taking the time to read this!
I am building a new gaming pc.

CPU: i5 Ivy Bridge 3570K

OS: Windows 8 64-bit OEM

Memory: 16GB of DDR3 1600

Overclocking: Yes

Below are several options I have for RAM/Motherboard combinations. Please help me choose the one you think it best in terms of cost, efficiency, and longevity.

Option 1

ASUS P8Z77-V PRO LGA 1155 Intel Z77 ($209.99)

Paired with CORSAIR Vengeance 16GB DDR3 1600 (2 x 8GB) ($139.99).

The final price for RAM+Motherboard is $349.98.

Option 2

ASUS P8Z77-V PRO/THUNDERBOLT LGA 1155 Intel Z77 ($229.99).

The Thunderbolt comes with 2 4gb sticks of this Crucial RAM. I would buy an identical set to have 4x4gb. Crucial Ballistix Sport 8GB 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 ($62.99)

The final price for RAM+Motherboard is $292.98.

Option 3

I could also purchase the Corsair RAM for the Thunderbolt motherboard. The price would be $369.98.

Thanks!
Alex

 

[X79]

I'd go for the one with 8GB RAM.

You save cash and you don't go overboard on the amount of RAM you'll actually need.

Getting 2x8 GB RAM has the advantage of leaving more PCI slots free for more RAM however.

But I generally follow the philosophy of "buy what you need, now." And you don't need 16GB now.