Slow Tri-Chan or Fast Dual-Chan?

Mislead · 7 Aug 2010 at 13:02

Hey all,

Currently trying to put a build together for the very first time and need some good advice on the memory.

I started off thinking the more RAM the better so was going to go for this:

OCZ Gold 6GB (3x2GB) DDR3 PC3-10666C9 Low-Voltage Triple Channel
http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MY-151-OC

However, i was wondering if it is better to go with a faster 4GB instead?
http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MY-203-CS&groupid=701&catid=8&subcat=1517

Essentially, is it better to go for fast 4GB or a slower 6GB? The build will be used for gaming amongst other things.

Sorry if it sounds like i do not really know what i am talking about, there is a lot to learn when doing your first build. Want to make sure i get most of it right.

Thanks all,
Mis

Jokester · 7 Aug 2010 at 13:08

You're RAM will likely actually be faster with the triple channel slow RAM, plus you'll have more of it.

madindehead · 7 Aug 2010 at 14:15

Also, remember you can only use tri-channel with certain CPUs. Same goes for the dual-channel. What CPU where you thinking of buying?

Mislead · 7 Aug 2010 at 14:26

madindehead said:
Also, remember you can only use tri-channel with certain CPUs. Same goes for the dual-channel. What CPU where you thinking of buying?

Motherboard: http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MB-399-AS&groupid=701&catid=5&subcat=1692

Processor: http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CP-320-IN&groupid=701&catid=6&subcat=1272

Will be running Windows 7 64bit. So i believe this setup will be able to use tri-channel without any problems.

madindehead · 7 Aug 2010 at 14:33

Yeah, that uses tri-channel, not dual channel, so you're ok with the tri.

arknor · 7 Aug 2010 at 15:23

madindehead said:
Yeah, that uses tri-channel, not dual channel, so you're ok with the tri.

its backwords compatible with dual channel , please dont spread misinformation.

dual channel vs triple channel has no real world benefits the difference is only in benchmarks until something comes along which needs that much benefit.

while you will struggle to find any gaming situations that use anywhere near 4gb of memory for the little difference in cost you may aswell go with a triple channel kit and have 6gb of memory.

Muel · 7 Aug 2010 at 15:41

Filled up my 4gb a few times under Crysis...