Running different branded Ram, yes or no?
 

Currently running 2 (dual channeled) kingston ddr2 667 pc-5300 1GB (2GB in total) RAM

Now I have 2 more slots on my motherboard for ram, so i'm considering upgrading my RAM for my l4d2.


Now if I want to buy a third stick of ram (say 1GB) I understand that it's recommended to run the same speed ( pc-5300 ddr2 667 ) but what if the brand is different, such as patriot or PNY?

What's your take/insight on running different branded RAM?

it works, but its not recommended, it might cause system instability

if u really really need to do it, get same speed, and size, dont just add 1 1GB stick, add 2 1GB sticks and run those in dual channel too.

really? I am thinking of doing this as well, I have 2 x 256 in my old desktop, want to add 2 x 256 of the same speed, size, etc. but the brands will be different. should I alternate them or pair them up or does it not matter?

I have done it with no problems.

Run Prime, or SP2004.....any stressful program...

You will see why its not recommended......

it works if ur just adding ram to run windows and surf, but once u start running stressful programs, like playing games or photoshopping, the computer will become unstable and crash randomly.

its fine for the average joe user..

So if I want to upgrade to 1G from 512M I have to get all matching RAM? Because it's mainly to run a couple games (my brother mainly plays GW) on my desktop that I am told desperately needs RAM (all review sites for it say it's hurting for RAM more than anything. I already added a graphics card)

There is no one answer for your question. In 99% of all cases there is no problem with mixing RAM. Virtually everyone who upgrades is not willing to throw away their old RAM, so they end up mixing them. If you have existing RAM it is almost impossible to find identical RAM a year later.

You need to decide your risk tolerance and make your own personal decision.

I always mix my RAM if needed.

:werd:

I don't know where people get the idea that if you mix RAM, your machine will become unstable.

If you mix DDR RAM, the fastest RAM you have installed will match the speed of the slowest RAM in your machine.

There is no harm in mixing RAM. We're not playing with old 386's and 486's anymore. Come on.

You'll get instabilities if they don't have any timings that will match up. Also start getting problems with overclocking, but that was never mentioned in the OP's original intent.

OT (and a bit of threadjacking) but, if your motherboard only supports up to DDR2 800Mhz..buying 1066Mhz would be useless as it'll downgrade to 800Mhz?

MB in question is P5W DH Deluxe...I plan on replacing my 667Mhz 2X1GB with either 800Mhz or 1066Mhz 4X2GB for overclocking. I know this board doesont have the greatest potential but I want to squeeze the most juice out of it since I cant afford a new mobo.