Which Ram Slots to Use: Dual RAM Make PC Faster

You've come to the appropriate place incase you want to upgrade the memory of your computer, but on the other hand, you are still determining which RAM slots to use.

Finding the right slot is relatively easy, even though it may seem difficult.

A thorough guide on choosing the appropriate slots for your computer and installing them on a laptop and a desktop has been created by our team.

Let's investigate.

Table Of Contents

What is a RAM Slot?

A RAM slot, commonly referred to as a RAM socket or Memory Socket, is a long, thin socket often positioned in a bank of two or four on a computer's motherboard. They enable adding RAM (random access memory) modules with various speeds and capacities to the computer.

RAM slots are frequently found next to CPU slots. Each is equipped with a tiny, hinged clamp to hold the memory module in place securely. Only compatible memory can be installed because a riser runs halfway along the memory slot. A cutout on compatible memory modules corresponds to the riser's location.

How Many RAM Slots Do Motherboards Have?

The majority of consumer motherboards include two or four RAM slots. Four spaces, occasionally even as much as six or eight, are nearly always included on high-end or gaming boards. Anything over eight slots is typically only used on servers or costly system boards.

The maximum RAM that can fit into each slot is usually between 8 and 32GB. Although a 16GB memory module can work in an 8GB slot, it will only register 8 GB in the best situation. In the worst case, nothing will happen. A motherboard's overall capacity for random access memory can be calculated by multiplying the number of slots.

Does It Matter Which RAM Slot You Use?

Yes, because of the multi-channel architecture, RAM slot order is essential. To enable the CPU to access the RAM modules more quickly, you must set up multiple memory sticks to work together (dual-channel, triple-channel, etc.). Putting the sticks in the appropriate slots will optimize the performance of your computer.

You must ensure the RAM modules are inserted into the appropriate slots. You must know which RAM slots to use to benefit from the dual-channel functionality. They are typically set up in duos. For example, with a motherboard which has slots of four RAM, you must utilize the second and fourth slots for two sticks, and only then, if you obtain a second pair, should you place it in the first and third slots.

What distinguishes RAM slots 1-3 from slots 2-4, then?

A2 (slot 2) and B2 (slot 4) are regarded as dual-channel RAM slots, while A1 (slot 1) and B1 (slot 3) are typically designated for a single channel of the same sort.

The image below shows (the ROG CROSSHAIR VII HERO 288-pin DDR4 DIMM Socket)

Recommended Memory Configuration

Which RAM Slot to Use for a Single Stick?

It is typically recommended to place the single RAM stick in the DIMM_A2 slot first; you have to always consult your motherboard documentation to determine the precise location unless your motherboard only has one RAM slot accessible.

Because slot ordering varies between motherboards, you must refer to the instructions. Suppose you haven't got it, you should try and look for the DDR4_2 or DIMM_A2 slot on the motherboard.

Memory Module Installation Recommendation

NB: Always insert memory modules in the DIMMA2 slot first.

What Slots Do You Put RAM In?

The quantity of RAM sticks you possess, and also the total number of slots on your motherboard will determine where to place them.

For a smooth gaming experience, you'll need 16 GB of RAM. Utilizing two 8 GB RAM sticks for the dual-channel memory that most modern motherboards enable is preferable.

For 2 slot dual channel boards, install RAM in both slots.
For 4 slot dual channel boards:
- Channel A uses slots 1 and 2
- Channel B uses slots 3 and 4
- Install in order slot 1, slot 3, slot 2, slot 4 for best performance.
Install identical or matched RAM sticks in each channel for dual channel mode.
Refer to motherboard manual for optimal configurations if unsure.

Motherboards with Four RAM Slots

You need to know that each motherboard's RAM slot configuration can differ, so it's best to read the instructions carefully.

On the other hand, there are specific broad rules you could follow

The A2 slot is typically where a single RAM stick would go if you only have one.

If you're equipped with two RAM sticks, then you have to place them in slots A2 and B2 or 2 and 4, or the slot one position away from the CPU socket, respectively.

Place the third stick in the space between slots A2 and B2 if you have three sticks.

Using every slot available for each stick is the apparent solution when using four sticks in a motherboard with four slots.

Motherboards with More Than Four RAM Slots

Very many motherboards contain up to four slots, while others have twice as many. If your motherboard has eight slots, your computer might handle triple-channel or quad-channel memory.

The RAM installation procedure is the same for motherboards with four slots.

If you only need to add one RAM stick, you can install it wherever you like.
If you have two RAM sticks, remember to place them in one slot apart from one another and place them in the slots that are farthest from the CPU for maximum distance.
Three RAM sticks should be placed side by side in the slots farthest from the CPU.
You should check your manual to see the layout for your four RAM sticks if the motherboard you're using supports quad-channel memory. You can arrange the four either closely together or apart.
Similarly, five RAM sticks can be arranged directly next to one another or the same as four sticks, with one stick positioned in the middle.
If you're going to place six RAM sticks, symmetrically place three on each side.
All slots should be filled with seven RAM sticks except for the first closest to the CUP.
Again, adding a stick in each slot is relatively straightforward for eight RAM sticks.

Is There an Issue With Having an Odd Number of RAM Sticks?

Mix and match RAM for installation if your RAM module count is unequal. Multi-channel arrangements might not operate as intended as a result.

Everything should be alright if your computer's motherboard supports triple-channel RAM. However, you won't benefit if the motherboard allows dual-channel (or more) memory or has an odd number of RAM sticks. The motherboard may force all RAM sticks to operate in single-channel mode.

Modern CPUs, however, have a function known as "flex mode" that allows a four-slot motherboard containing three RAM sticks to run two in dual-channel mode and one in a single channel. Therefore, carrying an odd number of sticks should be fine for you.

How to Install RAM on a Desktop

Purchasing new RAM modules to replace outdated ones is one technique to raise the speed of your RAM to improve your computer's performance.

Now that we know where slots your RAM should go in, let's look at how to install it on your PC.

Step 1: Turn off your computer and unplug every wire and cord.

Step 2: Unlock the clips. To access the motherboard, remove the side of the computer case. For instructions, refer to your computer's manual. To remember where the screws and cables go each time you need to put everything back together, it might be an excellent plan to take pictures as you work.

Step 3: Before installing the new RAM sticks, remove the old ones. The CPU socket is next to the memory slots. Switch over to the plastic clips at the two ends of the memory slots to remove them.

Step 4: Arrange your brand-new RAM sticks. Since you understand where to put them, arrange them so that the RAM's bottom portion lines up with the memory slot's rise. Only touch the corners of your new RAM sticks to prevent damaging the gold connectors or other components.

Step 5: Press the new RAM modules into place by applying pressure until the plastic clips secure your new memory sticks.

Step 6: To switch on your computer, close the case and re-plug all the cords.

You may need to restart your computer because it might not function properly. Your motherboard needs some time to adjust to the newly added RAM. But don't panic; everything should be in working order in a few minutes.

How to Install RAM on a Laptop

Compared to the ones on a PC motherboard, the sticks on a laptop motherboard are horizontal rather than vertical. In addition, some laptops include SO-DIMM memory sticks, which are sold straight to the motherboard. You'll need help getting them off.

Some laptops can't take more RAM, even though it may cause your computer to slow down. Therefore, before using new RAM sticks, you ought to verify these things:

If your laptop qualifies for a RAM upgrade, proceed as follows:

Step 1: Please turn off your laptop, allow it to cool off, and unplug all its cables.

Step 2: To get rid of the bottom casing, flip it over. Depending on your model, loosen the piece that covers your RAM. The placement and size of each screw should be carefully observed because the results may vary.

Step 3: Carefully pry open the clips holding your old RAM sticks in place. The memory modules must be removed from their slots.

Step 4: Drag the memory sticks downwards until they lock into place now that you know which slots to use for your RAM installation. Take care not to touch the top gold connector. Inside the laptop, the memory modules should be flat.

Step 5: After reinstalling the clips, you can replace the rear casing and flip your laptop over. Before turning on your laptop, you can reconnect all your wires and cords.

Remember to be cautious not to overclock your RAM when putting memory modules on your motherboard. It can be the cause of freezes and crashes on your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Can You Mix and Match RAM?

It should work if the various RAM modules have similar specs.

However, I don't advise combining different RAM types.

Instead of adding extra random sticks of RAM afterwards, purchase as much RAM as you require in a kit at the outset.

The likelihood that it will operate is high, but stability problems could arise due to timing issues and other factors. Identifying random blue screens while working or playing games can be challenging, which might be less enjoyable.

Q. Can I Use DDR3 and DDR4 RAM Together?

No. RAM generations cannot be switched.

DDR3 and DDR4 can only be used together, and so forth.

Q. Can I Use an 8 GB RAM Stick and a 4 GB RAM Stick Together?

It might work if the other specifications are the same as the 8 GB RAM stick or comparable.

However, you can experience stability problems or not. It's a gamble.

Try it out to learn more.

Final Thoughts

When updating your laptop or desktop, it is best to reference your motherboard documentation if you need help determining which RAM slots to use. However, most contemporary motherboards support dual-channel operation with two RAM modules of the same speed and generation. As a result, you must place them in matching sockets in pairs of 1 and 3 or 2 and 4.