CPU and RAM compatibility

[Susp8t]

Hey!

 

I’ve got a question regarding processor and RAM compatibility. 

 

I’m building a new gaming rig and I’m thinking of going with the Intel i7-8086k. I’m also considering 4x8 GB RAM to go with it.

 

On Intel’s webpage I read that it supports up to DDR4 2666 MHz RAM and a Max # of memory channels of 2.

 

From this I have some questions:

 

1 - Should I avoid getting any RAM that is above 2666 MHz, or will it still work perfectly if I get some that has say 3000 MHz.

 

2 - That the max number og memory channels is 2, does that mean I should get RAM that is dual channel? Or does it mean that i should only have 2 sticks of RAM? Or maybe none of the above and means something else entirely?:)

 

Thanks for any help!

Susp8t

[Wh0_Am_1]

It can run faster RAM than that, you just have to OC it, and the 2 channels specify that it can support up to 4 sticks of RAM, because the standard is to have 2 RAM slots for every channel, so as long as your MOBO supports it, you can grab any DDR4 kit you desire, (P.S. unless you OC it the 3000MHz RAM will run at 2666MHz).

[nick name]

Dual channel and quad channel won't change with the 8086K if you have 2 or 4 sticks.  Even if you use 4 sticks you will still be in dual channel because quad channel isn't supported. And people have gotten RAM overclocked much higher than the supported speed, but your mileage will vary. You don't need faster RAM per se, but that's a decision you'll have to make for yourself. 

[porina]

Number of installed sticks is not the same as number of channels. Running 4 sticks is fine in a dual channel system.

 

Anything above the CPU officially support speed is essentially an overclock and will require a Z chipset mobo to achieve. Generally speaking, buying modern ram from the same era as the CPU is safe. The higher the speed the ram is rated at, the higher the chances are of problems. Thankfully in most cases it is either work or not work, so it is obvious. But I've also had rare errors too. Up to about 3000 is easy.

 

For gaming uses, ram speed isn't that big a factor so no need to go for crazy high speeds. 2666 is fine. My suggestion is, if you can get faster without spending much more, consider it, but for sure don't spend silly amounts extra on faster ram.

[Susp8t]

Thanks guys for your replies. I’m much wiser now!