Hi, Can anyone tell me if there is a performance difference between using 2x8Gb and 4x4Gb memory sticks? Thinking about a new build upgrading to Skylake i7 Core 6700k and Z170 motherboard. Thanks
No performance difference, might effect your overclocks on the CPU using more memory sticks is a issue sometimes that happens.
there is not really a performance difference its good to buy the biggest set in least package eg if you have 4 slots if you get 2 x 8gb you can later upgrade to another set of 2 x 8gb to double the amount if you get 4 x 4gb you have to upgrade the whole 4 to double the amount of ram
As Rollo said 4 sticks stresses the memory controller on the chip more, so max overclock could be lower. IMO 2 x 8GB gives you best of both worlds as well as leaving room for future expansion.
yes, 4 sticks of RAM does stress the memory controller more. Also, using 4 sticks increases the latency, which does decrease performance, however, you should not notice the difference unless benchmarking, and as already been said it can effect overclocking [because of reduced performance and increased stress on the memory controller]. .
If you go for an Asus motherboard with T-Topology which keeps tracer lengths to each stick at equal distances, it will reduce the impact of running 4 sticks instead of 2. I'd still go for 2 over 4 though for future upgradability.
