Question regarding RAM Mixing

[jakerbreaker]

I currently have 12 GB. (2) 2GB and (2) 4GB. I am thinking of buying an 8GB and removing one of the 2GB. I keep reading comments about certain combinations not working or that they have to be the same size in each slot. Would this combination work? (1) 2GB (2) 4GB and (1) 8GB = 18GB

If not what is the reasoning behind it so I have a better picture. Would it work if I got (2) 8GB and left (2) 4GB? Thanks for the help.

 

[jakerbreaker]

Over 370 views and no replies? Somewhere out there is somebody who knows the answer to this.

 

[TMRaven]

Ideally you'd want matching amount of memory in both channels, but you'd probably sooner notice the increase in overall ram vs going from dual channel bandwidth to single.

 

[NMF]

If not what is the reasoning behind it so I have a better picture. Would it work if I got (2) 8GB and left (2) 4GB? Thanks for the help.

Don't do that, keep your memory dual channel. Either replace with 2x8gb or another set of 2x4gb.

 

[jakerbreaker]

Thanks for the input. I would love to know why that is the case if any one out there is able to help me understand it better.

 

[GGJstudios]

• MR Guide to Buying RAM
• MR Guide to Understanding Intel Mac RAM
• MR Guide to Matched RAM on Intel Macs

 

[TMRaven]

You do not have to have identical ram latency or speed to benefit form dual channel. Also, you seem to only post link to other topics and guides a lot.

 

[GGJstudios]

You do not have to have identical ram latency or speed to benefit form dual channel.

I didn't say otherwise.

Also, you seem to only post link to other topics and guides a lot.

Only when they're relevant, as in this case.