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64GB RAM - What is better, 2*32 or 4*16?
- Thread starter wavesm
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I asked this very question of a rep at Other World Computing. If I understood, while there may be a very slight increase in performance in four 16 GB modules, if one might ever want to increase to 128, then the two 32 GB modules would be preferable so that one would not have to chuck all the memory and buy four 32 GB modules. I plan to purchase two 32's after my BTO comes in.
Intel's desktop CPUs have a Dual-Channel memory interface. I have no idea what that OWC rep was smoking but clearly he/she had no idea. There is absolutely no difference at all between two and four modules. Quad-Channel memory controllers are available with Intel's server-class Xeon CPUs, starting with the Silver line if I'm not mistaken.
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2 x 32GB should be better as it gives you the option of upgrading to 128GB in the future if you'd like. 4 x 16GB would not give you that option.
As others have said, Intel consumer CPUs use dual channel memory, so 2 modules or 4 modules will perform exactly the same.
As others have said, Intel consumer CPUs use dual channel memory, so 2 modules or 4 modules will perform exactly the same.
It is possible that OWC is referring to a comparison test that was on gaming. Tested one band and one RAM module configuration (single rank). I found the result interesting but likely not universal.
Link to article
Link to Youtube video