When choosing the right RAM modules for your computer, it’s important to consider which type you’re getting. It’s not as simple as picking up the first RAM sticks you come across.
It’s important to understand compatibility and what is being added to the computer.
The wrong type will lead to errors and/or insufficient performance. To avoid this, you will want to be careful and go with the right type of RAM modules for your computer.
Keeping this in mind, you will also ask, does RAM have to be the same brand?
RAM does not have to be the same brand. The most important factor is compatibility with the system. You can mix and match RAM brands without compromising the computer’s performance.
This is a myth that is commonly passed down because it’s assumed each brand has a unique approach to making RAM modules. This is untrue as a RAM module won’t connect if made differently.
The most important thing to think about is what type of RAM module you are getting. If you are getting multiple RAM sticks then they must be fully compatible with your computer.
Here is a breakdown of what you should consider when buying RAM modules from different brands.
Tips To Buy RAM From Different Brands
1. Look For Compatibility
There is nothing wrong with mixing RAM brands.
You will only want to consider whether or not these are compatible with the computer. If they are, you are good to go and the computer will work as it is designed to.
It’s often assumed a specific RAM module should only go with the same brand when installed on a computer. This is incorrect as the slot is going to remain the same and the performance will only waver when one of the modules is incompatible.
You have to be diligent when checking for compatibility.
It should be a seamless fit with your computer. If it goes into the slot perfectly, the rest is not going to matter.
2. Don’t Be Afraid To Go With Different Sizes
One of the biggest concerns people have involves sizing.
You might assume adding an 8 GB RAM module is not going to work with a 16 GB Module. This is incorrect as you are more than welcome to mix and match RAM sizes.
It’s all about compatibility as mentioned before.
The difference in sizing will not play a role in how effective the setup is.
There is nothing wrong with adding different sizes and the computer will still work like a charm. Keep this in mind when it comes to going with the RAM setup that works best for you.
3. Scan The BIOS
An issue that can arise when you are mixing and matching RAM brands is readability.
This has to do with the BIOS not picking up on one of the RAM modules.
There is nothing wrong with this and it does happen. The best solution is to retry to scan the BIOS through the settings as that will ensure it picks up on the RAM modules that were added.
It’s a simple fix that will only take a few minutes of your time.
Once the BIOS has read what is going on, you will see the results you’re hoping for.
4. Test The RAM
It’s important to test the RAM.
This is one of the more common mistakes a person makes and it leads to subpar results. If you are not taking the time to test how the RAM modules are doing, you will not know whether or not there is a performance issue.
To test the RAM, look at using different programs and see if there is an uptick in performance.
Real-world performance does matter and that is far more important than any metrics you read about on paper. Dig into this to make sure your RAM addition is worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
Does RAM have to be the same brand?
RAM does not have to be the same brand. You are welcome to mix and match RAM modules whether it’s based on brands or sizing. The computer will still work as long as the RAM modules are compatible with the system.
This is the number one priority when looking to add RAM to a computer.
You have to make sure it is going to work with your computer. As long as that is the case, you will not have to worry about the RAM letting you down because each one is a different brand.
For the most part, all RAM modules are made the same way. This is how they’re fully functional when inserted into a slot. Always buy the one you think is going to add value to your system rather than looking for particular brands.
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