Which ram slots to use My question is which 2 ram slots should I be using for the two 8gb sticks? Dec 3, 2023 · If your current RAM is dual ranked, 4 sticks will limit how fast you can run the memory greatly. Is it bad to put a third stick into any slot? Will I see a decrease in speed? Thanks in advance, here’s Feb 2, 2022 · I should be setting in new components (2x 16gb corsair ddr5 5200 sticks, msi mag b650 tomahawk wifi, and a ryzen 7 7700x ) in a day or two and wanted to verify that it's still likely slots 2 and 4 I should be using for dual channel ram usage? I have been asking a few likely newbie questions here as of late but I haven't done any major pc changes in years So I'm feeling pretty rusty and want to Nov 21, 2023 · Confused about which RAM slots to use? This comprehensive guide will help you navigate through the process of installing RAM in your computer for maximum performance and efficiency. It is important to do this to take advantage of the dual-channel feature that your motherboard and Sep 15, 2024 · Confused about RAM slots? Don't cripple your PC's speed! Learn the optimal configuration for dual-channel memory and unlock peak performance. Power up the PC and check if the two RAM slots work. Dual channel is a technique that makes accessing the RAM modules by the CPU faster. You can potentially use the first and third slots as well (A1 + B1), although the added space between the CPU and the memory slots tends to aid airflow, which is why we recommend A2 + B2. Aug 30, 2022 · It is critical to determine whether more RAM slots are available on your computer if you are running low on RAM and wish to upgrade its memory capacity. Aug 17, 2023 · Learn about motherboard RAM slots, their functions, and how to effectively utilize them to maximize your computer's performance. In this article, we demonstrate how to check whether your computer has empty or used RAM slots. can i use either A1&B1 or A2&B2 slots both are the exact same and i can achieve 7200mhz using ei Feb 14, 2023 · Match Your RAM for the Best Performance RAM works best when paired with matching hardware. If only using 1-16gb - 2 x 8gb RAM-set, with only 2 of the 4 RAM-slots, which 2 RAM-slots, by # and color-clips should they be installed in, to get dual channel RAM. Feb 3, 2023 · In this post, I will show you how to check available RAM slots in Windows 11 using different methods. May 28, 2024 · Hi Everyone, I was having trouble seating my RAM sticks in my new ASUS ROG STRIX B650E-F gaming mobo, and alas, the RAM clip snapped off. Here are my specs: Intel I5 9400, ASUS Motherboard H365M-A, and 4GB Patriot Ram sticks along with 1 8GB Samsung Ram stick. A word of caution: The information provided by the Task Manager might not be accurate on some computers. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of RAM and explore the benefits and drawbacks of filling all your RAM slots. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of installing two RAM sticks in a motherboard with four slots, discuss the importance Jun 6, 2025 · Why a pair of memory sticks is often the better choice for PC gamers takes a little unpacking, but we're here to give you the low-down on the best memory kits for your system. Why Sep 7, 2025 · Exploring Different RAM Slot Types DIMM is the most prevalent type of RAM slot used in desktop computers. They are running at 2133 MHz right now, which is the default. Oct 12, 2023 · Having that many RAM slots allows you to use some of the best Daemons in the game that would otherwise be unavailable due to their high RAM cost. The manual says when enabling the dual channel mode we recommend using DDDR4_1 and DDR4_2. So I was wondering if that's just how it is with windows 11? cuz my old laptop also had 8 GB of ram and windows 8. Each RAM slot type is designed Using 2 slots is better than 4 slots as 4 slots puts more stress on the memory controller so it could be harder to oc or get the ram at the rated speed without adding more voltage. But it turns out that 4 RAM slots can only be used in expensive motherboards / CPU's. Ultimate Quickhacks, such as System Collapse and Dec 4, 2023 · Discover how to easily determine the number of RAM slots in your computer for quick upgrades and enhanced performance. Every motherboard has memory slots where you can see the existing RAM sticks and add more if you want to upgrade your RAM capacity. Jul 12, 2014 · How many memory slots I have on my motherboard. Sep 9, 2019 · RAM Channels: The What Simply put, memory channels are the links between your RAM and your CPU through which data moves between the two. At the end of the day, we will prefer you to use dual-channel RAM instead of 3 sticks of RAM because of a better user experience. Make sure the computer is stable as-is then go into the BIOS and enable the XMP Profile (instead of Auto) for the RAM. my motherboard can manage 4GB per slot, at DDR27600 - if that is even a speed, been a while since I upgraded :|) I am using Windows XP and 7. As you can see in the picture, one out of two memory slots are in use in my ThinkPad laptop. more Aug 9, 2020 · Hi, i have a gigabyte z390 gaming x motherboard and i was wondering which slots are the dual. The reason you don’t use the first with the second slot, or the third with fourth slot, is because there are two ram channels and doing so would only use a single channel. I have a gigabyte b650 gaming x ax v2 motherboard and 2 ram sticks. If I currently have 2x4GB 1600MHz Corsair Vengeance 9-9-9-24 RAM Sticks installed in my system, would it be okay to add (to the two empty slots) 2x8GB 1600MHz Corsair Vengeance 10-10-10-27, bringing my total RAM to May 26, 2021 · For 2 sticks of RAM, ASUS recommends using memory slots 1 and 3, Where slot 1 is closest to the CPU. The motherboard layout is DDR4_4 2 3 1 left to right. Jun 6, 2021 · RAM does NOT use PCIe, it has its own connection, you see the 4 slots bunched up together where your current RAM is installed? That's the RAM slots, they're called DIMM slots (Dual in-line memory module). Mar 20, 2025 · When it comes to upgrading your computer’s RAM, one question that often arises is whether it’s necessary to fill all available RAM slots. Oct 8, 2023 · I have 2 sets of the same ram, so a total of 64gb of ram and have filled out all 4 ram slots I built the computer on friday, could not get it to post, after troubleshooting i found out it would only boot with 1 or 2 ram slot in. Nov 21, 2023 · Discover how many RAM slots are on your computer and find out how to upgrade your system's memory for improved performance. Mar 29, 2020 · System OEM/Model: HP Pro 3400 MT Motherboard: Foxconn 2abf CPU: Intel i7-2600K GPU: PNY Geforce GTX560 ti RAM: 2x 2gb Crucial For some reason my system only is using one of the RAM slots at a time, I've tested each slot by itself with ram. May 20, 2023 · Which slot to put RAM in? The answer is that it depends on the number of RAM sticks you have and the DIMM slots supported by your motherboard. Just bought an Asus Vivobook 15 K513eq, and installed windows 11. In this video, we have elaborately discussed which ram slots 1 3 vs 2 4 and different channel ram slot differences. Note for Ryzen the preferred slots are different to intel. With two sticks, install it in A1-B1 or A2-B2 format. Different types of RAM DIMM slots have varying numbers and structures of pins, as follows: SDR has 168 pins DDR has 184 pins DDR2 and DDR3 have 240 pins DDR4 has 288 pins There are various types of RAM DIMMs with Sep 4, 2023 · I want to install a matched set of 2x48GB DDR5 RAM sticks (Corsair or Gskill) for 96GB total DDR5 RAM on a new build Asus Maximus Hero Z790 MB with an Intel-i9 13900K CPU. RAM slots are frequently found next to CPU slots. I have 2 DDR4-2666 memory modules of 16GB each (no XMP enabled). The ideal RAM slot order depends on the specific motherboard’s design and the number of RAM modules you have. Nov 25, 2022 · Which RAM slots should you use for your RAM Sticks? Does it make a performance difference or can you place the Modules wherever you want to? Jul 15, 2024 · Which DIMM slots should I use for dual-channel memory? To enable dual-channel memory, use slots with matching colors, typically labeled DIMM0 and DIMM1 or A1 and B1. My motherboard manual recommends RAM slots 2 and 4 for dual channel memory. Does it matter which pair of RAM slots I end up using? I've got b-die RAM at 4133 which I am planning on bringing down to 3600 and tightening the timings. It's common for motherboards to come with four RAM slots, so a general guideline is to start with the RAM slot farthest from the CPU, and then if you have a matching stick of RAM, skip one slot and insert it. Each is equipped with a tiny, hinged clamp to hold the memory module in place Nov 21, 2023 · Unsure of which RAM slot to use? Read this comprehensive guide to understand the best practices and optimize your computer's performance. Sep 18, 2023 · In this guide you will find instructions on how to check and find out the RAM size, speed, type and manufacture on a Windows 11/10 PC. Which are the correct ones to use, if I have 2 sticks? In the Advanced bios, I see MC 0 & 1, I think this means Memory Channel? They look as follows (slot number in bios added, as well as the physical location of the slots): MC 0 Ch 0 DIMM 0 - Slot 1 - Closer to fans/Top slot MC 0 Ch 0 DIMM 1 - Slot 3 - Closer to fans/Bottom slot MC 1 Ch 0 DIMM 0 - Slot 2 So I decided 4x16 but tons of people said never use all 4 slots on AM5, as it greatly reduces the RAM speeds. Mar 10, 2014 · Please help I'm building a PC with a MSI MAG b650 Tomahawk wifi. This guide will walk you through the steps to check your RAM slots using Windows 10’s Task Manager and Command Prompt. Jul 26, 2022 · In fact, populating all 4 slots may cause the memory to run at looser timings and even speeds - causing slower performance than with just 2 sticks. Is there a way to use all 4 ram slots? I'm currently on dual channel mode, which is 2 ram sticks. However, selecting the right RAM slots and configuration can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. The answer, Jul 9, 2025 · Which RAM slots should you use? Consumer motherboards generally have four memory slots. Nov 22, 2023 · Not sure which slots to put your RAM into? Here's a comprehensive guide on correctly positioning your RAM modules for optimal performance. . Will the mobo function normally if I use A1 and B1 instead? Also, can I use two 48GB sticks instead of two 32GB stic Feb 1, 2016 · I've been reading all around and still don't have clarity as to how to configure my RAM sticks in their slots. This guide is designed to help users understand various methods to check RAM slots, interpret the information, and troubleshoot hardware issues related to RAM in Windows 10. But 2 sticks DR can perform better because each rank/bank can be accessed separately. Aug 8, 2023 · The Slots used field shows the total number of RAM slots available and how many are being used now. So, one RAM slot is free, which I can use to upgrade the total RAM if and when I want. 1 but the memory usage was always near 30%. Always install RAM in the slots from the bottom to the top. By accessing the System Information tool or Task Manager, you can see how many RAM slots are available and how many are currently in use. I ended up changing my ram for 2x16gbs because I read somewhere that there might be a problem by using 4 slots, like electricity thing that is not stable or that is easier for the motherboard to just use 2 sticks instead of 4. I was thinking of getting 2x 4GB RAM and then in a year orso adding 2x 4Gb for a total of 16GB. 2, fan headers, audio, front panel connectors, etc. RAM is a volatile memory. 4 RAM Sticks So, two memory sticks give you double the memory bandwidth, and most users may think that using four sticks of memory quadruples the memory bandwidth. I've always heard that slots 2 and 4 are the most optimal for gaming, but now I'm kind of being forced into using the 2nd and 3rd ram slot. I installed the windows just yesterday with the drivers and a handful of I currently have the ram inserted in the 1st and 3rd slot, but the PC is only using 2400mhz of the ram instead of the 3200mhz as advertised. Motherboard RAM slots are the components on the motherboard that allow you to install RAM (Random Access Memory) modules onto your computer. Jul 9, 2017 · DDR channel architecture works with up to 2 sticks per channel meaning dual channel capable components can have up to 4 slots. Jul 11, 2019 · Planning to upgrade your PC's memory, but you don't know if there are any slots available? Here's a quick way to find out on Windows 10, no disassembly required. Oct 15, 2025 · Learn how to install DDR4 or DDR5 RAM on your PC's motherboard using a step-by-step guide with pictures, precautions, and more. Depending Sep 23, 2024 · A memory slot, memory socket, or RAM slot allows RAM (Random-Access Memory) to be inserted into the computer. Confirm whether or not your motherboard has extra RAM slots, and how much RAM each slot can accept. When you install RAM modules on your computer, you might wonder which RAM slots to use. I start the computer and the BIOS tells me there's Mar 21, 2022 · Want to know how to enable dual-channel RAM? We'll give you a step-by-step guide in this complete article plus so much more. I have 3 8GB ram sticks, you will see them in my partspicker below. Follow our step-by-step guide to unlock the full power of your device. Sep 5, 2023 · 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. May 20, 2025 · Find the RAM cards on your motherboard and remove each from its slot, then fit the RAM card in slot 1 into slot 2, and vice versa. Let’s explore the differences and determine which slot configuration is ideal for your system. Jun 14, 2024 · This guide explains all motherboard slots and connectors, covering CPU, RAM, SATA, M. Nothing that comes with the board indicates which slots to use and i cant find the manual online. Also see: Check RAM details in Windows 10/11. Remember to prioritize essential skills, organize your memories, and manage your Memory Fragments to get the most out of this I have an ASRock B450m Pro4 with a Ryzen 5 3600 and 16gb (8x2) of Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 3600mhz ram. I plan on building a PC soon and I was just wondering why people use 2 RAM sticks instead of 4. I had a client who bought 4x16GB RAM for his PC (I suggested 2x32GB be he ended up with 4x16GB because he got a good deal on it, unknowningly of this issue), and had pretty major issues. Jul 9, 2025 · Which RAM slots should you use? Consumer motherboards generally have four memory slots. My questions: Will using ram in slot 1 and 3 produce similar results to 2 and 4? Will continuing to use my ram in slots 2, 3 significantly reduce Mar 24, 2025 · The MSI Titan 18 HX has 4 DDR5 slots. It tells the ram controller to run in dual channel. But this could result in lower performance due to how your CPU’s May 25, 2024 · In this article we explain what slots to put RAM in, and how to find the correct ones, whether you have a single, dual, or quad-channel motherboard. Jul 7, 2022 · If there is only one memory card and it is in the top slot, remove the top memory card before installing RAM in the bottom slot. Jun 29, 2025 · Certainly! Here’s a detailed, comprehensive guide titled "How to Check RAM Slots in Windows 10" that spans approximately 5000 words. speed and size of each stick) The maximum allowable size and speed per slot (i. Use the 2 gray slot first. Mar 31, 2022 · If you have two RAM slots, it doesn’t matter which slot you use for your RAM, but if you have four or more, it does matter. However, understanding the right slots to use when installing RAM sticks is crucial for optimal performance. The RAM is the computer’s short-term memory, and the CPU is the main processor that does stuff with the information in the memory; the RAM channels are how that information moves back and forth. better said they will, i'm still hunting the proper cpu. I don't know that I can use B2 at this point. 1K votes, 393 comments. Nov 19, 2023 · The truth is, the specific slot you choose can make a difference in terms of memory performance. Oct 28, 2022 · 3. By memorizing skills, abilities, and stats, you can adapt to different situations and strategies, experiment with different playstyles, and streamline your gameplay. That's why it's best to use the same RAM model in all slots. These slots typically have a 64-bit data path and support various types of DDR (Double Data Rate) RAM, such as DDR3, DDR4, and DDR5. Let’s explore the best practices for installing RAM and maximizing your system’s memory performance. Additionally, you look up to your motherboard manual to have a better understanding of which slots to fill up with RAMs. I have 2x8 g. ) May 27, 2025 · Checking the number of RAM slots in your Windows 10 laptop is a simple task that helps you understand your computer’s upgrade potential. I tried to watch this video, but it didn't helped much outside of "2 slots can be optimized for higher speeds" and "in daisy chain you can use 2 higher capacity RAM and in T you should use 4 lower ones May 12, 2025 · Learn how to ensure your computer’s RAM is compatible with your motherboard. e. This is why many mobos will have up to 4 slots and not more. Easy guide for beginners! Is your computer slowing down? Improve performance by installing more RAM. The most common slot type in modern desktops is the DIMM (dual inline memory module) slot, while laptops typically use SO-DIMM (small outline DIMM) slots, which are shorter to save space. 4 slots is still included because some workloads arent very sensitive to speeds, but need as much RAM as you can offer it. I have 2 open slots on my MSI Tomahawk Wifi DDR5 motherboard… So I did some research, it seems to be a quite controversial and confusing topic for me. These components are the key to unlocking more power, speed, and functionality in your device. Most motherboards have two to four memory slots, which determine the type of RAM used with the computer. Sep 7, 2025 · Installing RAM modules in the correct slot order is crucial for achieving optimal performance in your computer. Also, check if the RAM card in the working slot works perfectly on the concerned one. Dec 15, 2011 · Do you need 4 sticks of RAM to 'activate/utilize' it? Or does dual channel literally only apply to 'two channels' and only two sticks out of the four will be benefiting from dual channel?. 1. Jan 29, 2024 · Monitor RAM usage in Task Manager. You can use multiple methods to find the free memory Nov 2, 2024 · Which RAM Slots Should I Use? Adding RAM to your computer is a simple and effective way to improve its performance and speed. The stats per memory stick I have installed in my machine (i. Lastly, the number of DIMM slots on a motherboard determines the maximum amount of RAM installed in a system. I inserted my memory modules in slots: 1+3 (A1+B1). Following the appropriate procedure, assemble the PC. Apr 16, 2020 · Basically I have a B450 Aorus Elite motherboard and want to know how to correctly insert the ram. These memory slots are sometimes labelled A1, A2, B1, and B2, with the letter Aug 14, 2024 · When using two RAM sticks, it's important to use the two optimized RAM slots by the motherboard manufacturer. Also, yes, with only 2 DIMM slots you can't mess up the placement. For a gamer or average user, dont go beyond 2 sticks. I am planing to buy an extra 4 GB of RAM however this leave me with one more empty slot, will this slow down my performance/ ram speed by any chance? Nov 14, 2013 · Yellow and orange, blue and black, green and red: you'll find the RAM slots on motherboards in all sorts of color pairs. Find what RAM you need that is right for your system. Ryzen loves fast ram. Examine the type and speed of your existing RAM, and ensure that any new RAM you purchase is of the same type and isn't too fast for your motherboard. but I noticed the memory usage is always at nearly 50% and even higher when I'm browsing. What Is RAM? Random Access Memory (RAM) is computer memory that is used to store data currently being retrieved or processed by the computer. Can you put RAM in 3 slots? To answer your question yes you can use three sticks of ram, however you will not get the maximum performance from it like you will from matched pairs in dual channel. Once you know that, it will be easy to figure out why RAM slots are also Sep 6, 2023 · If you are confused about inserting the two memory sticks in the correct slot, you can always refer to the motherboard’s user manual to check which memory slot runs the dual channel. Do I place ram into second slot and the last one How to install RAM onto your PC's motherboard step by step, including which DIMM slots to install multiple modules in for dual/quad channel memory. 3200mhz is best (considering price/performance). Sep 8, 2025 · Properly arranging your RAM modules can impact memory performance, especially when utilizing dual-channel or quad-channel memory modes. Jul 24, 2023 · $ sudo dmidecode -t memory Find RAM Slots in Linux As per the above output associated with the Physical Memory Array, the last entry that reads Number of Devices points to the installed and in-use RAM memory slots (In this case 2). Check out the right order Nov 19, 2023 · Discover how to maximize your computer's performance by utilizing all 4 RAM slots. Also, explore the importance of using the correct RAM slot when upgrading your computer's memory. I understand slot 2 & 4 is ideal for dual channel ram but why wouldn’t 1 & 3 work (just wondering what the difference is ) Jun 1, 2025 · Learn how to identify the number of memory slots in your computer using Windows Task Manager, CPU-Z utility, or by examining the motherboard, with guidance. Oct 22, 2019 · I have to put the ram sticks in the 1 slot from the 24pin connector side and the 3rd slot from the same side. Any Aug 20, 2024 · Checking RAM slots in Windows 10 is a straightforward task that helps you understand your computer’s memory configuration. Jan 25, 2021 · Hello. That doesn't mean that you're guaranteed to be able to run 4 sticks of RAM at certain frequencies or timings on all motherboards. Oct 15, 2025 · Not sure about the number of RAM slots in your PC or laptop? We have detailed six ways to check available RAM slots in Windows 11. By using built-in system tools, you can easily find out how many RAM slots your system has and which ones are occupied. Should I Switch the slots? Sep 22, 2024 · Conclusion Using Memory Slots in Elden Ring is a powerful way to customize your gameplay experience. Apr 28, 2023 · Does It Matter Which RAM Slots You Use? Assuming your motherboard supports dual-channel memory, and most do, choosing the correct RAM slot order can significantly impact how well the memory performs. Dec 20, 2024 · When it comes to upgrading your computer's memory, one question that often arises is whether it matters which DIMM slot you install your RAM in. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. The easy way to test this is just to have task manager open, in the background, as you game. Boost your upgrade knowledge in just a few steps! Aug 20, 2016 · Which 2 RAM-slots, by # and-or color are part of the 1st channel and which 2 RAM-slots by # and-or color are part of the 2cnd channel. Do you know how to enable dual-channel RAM on your laptop or PC? This guide walks through all the steps, including hardware and installation. Memory boots up system fine in slots 2 and 4, the non-recommended config. Makes me wonder why would they even put 4 slots in if you weren't supposed to use them, whole thing sounds silly. Jul 23, 2025 · In this article, we will show you Four Ways to check available RAM slots in Windows 11, using Task Manager, PowerShell, Command Prompt, and CPU-Z. 4 sticks SR or 2 sticks DR is the way to go, unless you want to go for crazy high memory overclocks then 2 sticks SR will get you that. Jul 15, 2019 · To understand the different types of RAM slots, we need to look at what types of RAM modules exist and how they differ. A RAM socket is also known as a Memory Socket. Mar 11, 2025 · Does it matter at all? I'm having a pair of f5-7200j3445g16gx2-tz5rk they run on 7200mhz so the max O. DIMMs are available in different capacities, ranging from 4GB to 128GB per module, making them suitable for both mainstream and high-performance computing Nov 15, 2021 · It all depends on you, which RAM suits your PC and how many sticks you should use based on your motherboard slots. With one RAM stick, you can install it in any of the slots but preferably right next to the processor channel. Nov 29, 2022 · Where to find your RAM slots, RAM slot types, and how to install RAM on your motherboard for your computing needs. Title is pretty self explanatory. In a dual-channel configuration, the RAM sticks work together to increase the system’s memory bandwidth, allowing for faster data transfer and improved performance. This also means, yes it does work with 4 slots. So which slots are for dual ram? Nov 13, 2019 · Hello! I own a Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Master (rev. I enabled xmp. RAM, or Random Access Memory, is a crucial component in any computer system. Most computers and laptops typically come with 8GB of RAM, which is enough for most people who use their devices to browse or use basic programs Feb 6, 2020 · On dual channel boards - it's best to have 2 ram modules (Ryzen is dual channel). I always wondered if using all slots could be an issue and now I have to choose. For optimal performance, your RAM should use the same voltage, and their respective controllers should play well with each other and the motherboard. Some will still run dual channel even in adjacent slots, but generally, if you want speed, you go in opposite slots. I found the manual for the v1 version here which says to use slots 2 and 4 but idk if its the same. Jul 9, 2025 · This generally means placing one stick of RAM in slot two (A2) and the second stick in slot four (B2). I have seemingly fixed it for the time being without any major drawbacks, and thought I'd share my experience and method with you guys. Jul 28, 2025 · Discover how to easily check the number of RAM slots in your Windows 10 laptop with this quick guide. I am wondering why so many motherboards even have 4 RAM slots? Mar 17, 2025 · Get memory specifications and learn how to install memory in iMac computers. Support page for B450M-A Dec 10, 2024 · Do you know how to check installed RAM and RAM slots on Windows? This article will give you some professional suggestions. In this article, let us see step-by-step, how to check for empty RAM slots in the system. DIMM slot The DIMM slot is the most common type of RAM slot on desktops and can support many kinds of RAM including SDR-SDRAM, DDR-SDRAM, DDR2-SDRAM, DDR3-SDRAM, and DDR4-SDRAM. Mar 2, 2025 · How to Install 2 RAM Sticks in 4 Slots Upgrading your computer’s RAM can significantly improve its performance and multitasking capabilities. Aug 30, 2021 · I have tested each ram stick and each dimm slot separately and everything works but if I put 3 or 4 ram sticks in, it will only use the two biggest sets of ram for example: if I place 2x4gb and 2x2gb it will only use 8gb and if I use 1x4gb and 2x2gb it will only use 6gb. let's assume i get a 13700k for decent $. Can you please tell me why? Most or all motherboards with 4 slots for RAM will support using all 4 slots at once. (I tried looking at the manual and it said to check the website for details on hardware installation, but it only has the shitty frontpage for the motherboard that isn't any help at all. Here's how to find your motherboard's RAM slots and how to use them. 3000mhz is acceptable also, but you shouldn't go any lower than that. My confusion is because posters don't distinguish how the RAM slots are ordered/number Dec 28, 2019 · My motherboard have 4 RAM slot with the maximum ram capacity of 16 GB (DDR3). In most cases, these are slots 2 and 4, but we recommend looking at your motherboard's specification sheet to find the best slots. Apr 25, 2022 · Is it better to populate Ram Slots 1-3 Vs 2-4? Get expert advice and find out how to optimize your computer's memory configuration here. Extreme example here: if you bought two kits of DDR4 3800 MHz CL14 memory, I wouldn't be surprised if many motherboards couldn't run 64 gigs of memory at extremely fast Dec 17, 2017 · Hello, Since long time already, we are told, when assembling PC and where motherboard has 4 RAM slots, that we should insert first pair of RAM into 2nd and 4th RAM slot first (or other two assigned RAM slots) and only after that, if we get 2nd pair we should put it into 1st and 3rd slot. Mar 26, 2013 · The slots having the matching colors are paired, so a matched set of memory modules would plug into the slots having the white tabs, and likewise for the slots having the black tabs. Mar 27, 2023 · Which RAM Slot To Use and How Does It Matter? Learn how to identify the different types of RAM slots, and find out why using the optimal slot can make a difference in your system's speed and stability. Check your motherboard manual! Dunno who downvoted this but don't be a moron. May 5, 2025 · Here's what you need to know about how many RAM sticks to install for optimal performance — and key tips to watch out for. However. Does it matter which of these dimm "bank" slot setups are used? Specifically for the Ga-Aorus-Pro-Wifi Intel Z390 mobo, if that matters. Would RAM slots 1 and 3 be just as good or is there a reason that slots 2 and 4 are better? If anything I would've expected slots 1 and 3 to be better as they're physically closer to the CPU and data would have to travel less distance. It will double the bandwidth. How Many RAM Slots Do I Need? RAM is one of the most important specifications that people look for in a computer. We explain which RAM slots you should use and why it makes a difference where the memory modules are placed. On Ryzen two of the slots will often not handle high speed kits well, and the manual will indicate which slots are best for a 2 stick dual channel setup. Then, 2 black if you plan to use all 4 slots. Where the slots color coded? This board says to use A2 & B2 for the first pair (see page 1-9 of the manual) so you have them correct. If you’re looking directly down at the motherboard these slots tend to be configured so that one memory channel is split over the two slots closest to the CPU, with slots three and four covering the second memory channel. If your RAM usage is regularly hitting 100%, you probably need to upgrade. They enable adding RAM (random access memory) modules with various speeds and capacities to the computer. There is no specific feature as this is a standard spec for ddr ram. The answer to this question depends on various factors, including your computer’s specifications, usage patterns, and budget. Nov 19, 2023 · The placement of RAM in the correct slots on your motherboard is crucial for optimal performance. I would like to install the 2 sticks in DIMM Slots A2-B2 for dual channels and leave the A1-B1 slots empty to provide Dec 14, 2024 · so i jus upgraded my ram to 32 gigs, (2x16) sticks an im wondering what 2 slots on the motherboard should i use for max performance with these 2 sticks It may seem intuitive to use all of your RAM slots in your motherboard to have the most memory possible for your gaming pc. The slots are color coded for which ones are dual channel with each other. 0) motherboard. This knowledge is useful for planning future upgrades to improve your laptop’s performance. In this article, we will explore the basics of RAM slots and help answer the all-important question: “Which slots do I put my RAM in? RAM, short for Random Access Memory, is an essential component of any computer system. skill trident 3200mhz but when i run benchmark tests it says the ram score is way too low. Jun 7, 2023 · Knowing which RAM slot to use on a computer is important to avoid performance problems. Hey guys. Don't know how many RAM slots your laptop or desktop has? Here's how you can use the task manager to find the total number of RAM slots. They are essential for your computer’s performance, as they allow for faster processing speeds and more efficient data storage. I don't know which ram slots to use first for the dual channel requirement. Thankfully, Windows 10 has built-in features for the users to check for empty RAM Slots without dismantling the system. Aug 5, 2025 · RAM Slots and Expansion Ports Explained Whether you're building your first PC or upgrading your laptop, understanding RAM slots and expansion ports is crucial. I heard it can mess up dual channeling and it is better to one in slot one and one in slot 3, or put one in slot 2 and one in slot 4. May 16, 2025 · RAM slot types refer to the different designs and specifications of memory sockets found on motherboards, each corresponding to a particular generation and form factor of RAM. C. Mar 29, 2013 · Hi, I have a quick question about RAM, hopefully someone can answer it for me. Are you confused about which RAM slots to use? Get quick tips on the best slot configurations for stability and compatibility and avoid common mistakes. For best performance you need to install memory beginning with the first slot, which is usually a white tab, I think. Jan 6, 2025 · Single-channel RAM configurations, on the other hand, use a single RAM stick installed in any available slot, which can limit the system’s performance. In this article, we’ll explore how RAM slots work and whether it really matters which one you use. Recently my fourth ram slot hasn't been working (pc unable to detect ram when placed in that slot). These memory slots are sometimes labelled A1, A2, B1, and B2, with the letter Sep 15, 2021 · Earlier, one had to open the laptop physically and then check if there were empty RAM Slots in the system or install third-party utilities to check for empty RAM slots. In this case, the Maximum RAM Capacity for these 2 RAM slots is 8GB. Jun 22, 2022 · Here are three easy ways to check the number of RAM slots available without opening your computer on Windows 11. I only The question is not about using 4 RAM sticks vs 2, but using 2 RAM stick in a motherboard which have either 4 or 2 DIMM slots. Everything works great! Recently I’ve been taught that the correct placement of 2 memory modules is into slots: 2+ Sep 7, 2023 · For ease of use, DIMM slots are designed to be user-friendly and are usually color-coded to help users install memory modules correctly.