RAM brands mix (and what are the consequences?)

[Dr. Dressing]

I want to upgrade my RAM, from 8 to 16 (Since I use 4 GB idle, and 7.5 whilst using a mildly intensive program.)

 

Since I already have 8 installed, will it mess with the memory bandwidth/performance, if I get a different brand to align with the 8 GB I already have?

I ask, because it seems like it wouldn't be a problem, but I've heard that some companies just don't like cooperation with other brands, irregardless of the task.

[Entropy.]

1 minute ago, Dr. Dressing said:

I want to upgrade my RAM, from 8 to 16 (Since I use 4 GB idle, and 7.5 whilst using a mildly intensive program.)

 

Since I already have 8 installed, will it mess with the memory bandwidth/performance, if I get a different brand to align with the 8 GB I already have?

I ask, because it seems like it wouldn't be a problem, but I've heard that some companies just don't like cooperation with other brands, irregardless of the task.

Usually it should be fine with some minor exceptions that im too dumb to explain. Otherwise, if the Ram has the Same CAS latency (Timings), and same clocks, it should usually be okay, Otherwise your RAM will be underclocked to perform at the level of the worse-performing ones. Like I said, there are some exceptions to what I said, but as a general rule of thumb you should be okay. 

[Dr. Dressing]

3 minutes ago, Brok3n But who cares? said:

Usually it should be fine with some minor exceptions that im too dumb to explain. Otherwise, if the Ram has the Same CAS latency (Timings), and same clocks, it should usually be okay, Otherwise your RAM will be underclocked to perform at the level of the worse-performing ones. Like I said, there are some exceptions to what I said, but as a general rule of thumb you should be okay. 

What if these preinstalled sodimm sticks don't show timing, voltage etc? (Or, that they can't be checked) [Say for instance, that the sticker fell off, etc.] Would it be more reliable for me to get a kit? (Minimize the issues at all cost)- Or pray that I got the right specs throughout the entire preinstalled stick? (Potentially saving me half the price of those kits you find online)

[Hairless Monkey Boy]

You can use software like CPU-Z to check the specs of your current RAM. Try to buy something that matches as closely as possible.

 

Edit:

If you post screen shots of the memory and spd tabs of CPU-Z we can help find the right RAM to buy to match.