Dual Channel Vs More Memory?

paul_31 · 13 Aug 2009 at 22:48

Hi Guys,

I'm just trying to make a final decision on what memory to go for in a new AM3 build. Before I started looking I was thinking of getting 8GB dual-channel but as these kits seem vary rare (and expensive if you can find them) I've decided against it for now.

I now can't decide whether I will be better off getting a 4GB dual-channelkit or getting a 6GB Tri-Channel kit (which obviously will not run at either dual/tri-channel on AM3)

So basically do you think I'm better off having less memory running in dual-channel or going for extra memory but sacrificing dual-channel?

Just after some opinions really, how much of a real-world difference do you think dual-channel makes?

Thanks.

PermaBanned · 13 Aug 2009 at 23:26

4GB Dual Channel is enough for pretty much anyone at the minute.

PakJai · 14 Aug 2009 at 05:43

4GB (2x2GB) is suffice. I got some from OcUK yesterday infact. Most went out of stock but they had some decent ones back in now. Checkout the following:

OCZ Platinum AMD Edition 4GB (2x2GB) DDR3 PC3-12800C7 1600MHz Dual Channel (OCZ3P1600LVAM4GK)

£60.00 inc VAT for a pair of 1.65Volts, 1600MHz DDR3 with tight 7-7-7-24 timmings. Can't say much more really

cmndr_andi · 14 Aug 2009 at 09:58

If you want 8GB and dual channel - just buy two 4GB dual channel kits. The 4 sticks should run happily enough (may need to reduce the speed a bit to get stable).

But as the guys above said, 4GB should be plenty for pretty much all situations, but there are certain applications that would give you a distinct benefit when using 8 - if you plan to use such applications then 4x 2GB would be a good option.