Are you asking this question?
Read on, as this article will explain if you’re able to mix RAM brands.
RAM is the memory of any computing rig, from smartphones to giant mainframe computers its everywhere.
Its where all the app data is stored when you run an system on a PC or mobile phone.
But not for long.
When you exit the app, data returns to the internal storage or hard disk drive.
So far, everything is fine.
However, confusion arises when you should probably enhance your computers memory capacity.
When a specific RAM brand is out of the market, would you discard a perfectly working RAM?
Read on to know more!
Contents
Can You Mix Ram Brands?
You may just bring up the PC case and install another RAM of a different brand.
However, it doesnt mean that you really should do this.
Compatibility
The RAM manufacturers only test their own RAMs.
RAM producers dont test their RAMs with manufacturers products.
Hence, you dont know if mixing RAM brands is scientifically okay.
Thats because different RAM manufacturers use different PCBs, breadboard dies, circuitry, electronic components, and more.
), RAM BUS frequency, Voltage, and CAS Latency.
Memory Chip Variation
While producing a batch of RAM, brands use semiconductor chips of unique qualities.
Workload on the Motherboard
The motherboard comes with intelligent programming and hardware components just for RAM chips.
This is an unnecessary load on the motherboard.
For example, take a look at the following scenario:
Youre using two RAMs from two manufacturers.
Now, the motherboard will use 2,200 MHz BUS frequency and 1.35 volts of power for both RAMs.
Almost all branded and reliable RAM chips come in transparent plastic packaging.
But give a shot to match the other technical specifications.
Its highly likely that other brands also make similar configurations for RAM chips.
It provides granular and more technical information about the RAM.
For example, it says DDR4/DDR3, PC4/PC3, CL11/22, 12,800, etc.
You may also want to match these details as much as possible for the new RAM youre buying.
Try not to buy a memory chip with different capacities, as this will interfere with the motherboards performance.
However, motherboards have the necessary programming to handle memory capacity disparity on different slots.
This process is known as the Flex Memory Mode.
For example, youre pairing 16 GB and 8 GB RAM together on a motherboard.
Youll get 24 GB of overall memory on your PC.
However, the memory access will be controlled in a blend of dual-channel and single-channel configurations.
The remaining 8 GB of the 16 GB memory chip will use single-channel memory access mode.
Hence, youll notice a slight performance issue.
This is called Column Address Strobe latency, CAS latency, or CL.
Hence, the lower the CAS latency value, the better the RAM is.
Ensure the new RAM comes with a CL number matching the existing RAM module.
As you could see here, youre slowing down one RAM by pairing it with a slower RAM.
If youre mixing RAM brands of different volts, youre putting one RAM at risk.
For instance, youre pairing a RAM rated for 1.2V with a 1.35V RAM.
For memory modules, this upscaling of rated voltage is highly risky.
Soon, the RAM of low power rating will start showing anomalies or stop working.
Buying a new RAM?
You certainly can mix and match RAM.
However, you might only mix and match RAMs of the same generation.
For example, 16 GB DDR4 RAM can be paired with 8 GB DDR4 RAM.
You cant mix and match RAMs of different form-factor generations like DDR4 with DDR3.
Because a motherboard cant support both DDR4 and DDR3 RAMs.
Can You Mix RAM Speeds?
you could mix RAM speeds.
Thus, you wont be able to enjoy the benefits of a 3,200 MHz RAM.
Can You Mix RAM Sticks?
you’ve got the option to mix RAM sticks in a few cases.
Mostly, experts suggest that you buy a RAM kit instead of individual RAMs.
Hence, after considering many technical and practical experiences, Id say dont mix and match RAM chips.
RAMs come with a batch number or model number that matches across RAM sticks of the same production line.
For example, BL8G32C16U4B for Crucial Ballistix 3200 MHz DDR4 RAM.
Alternatively, get a RAM kit for reliability, compatibility, and the best performance.
