Does two different brand of ram still support dual channel?

Question

I have a currently have a Kingston 1GB ram in my motherboard...my motherboard support dual channel, and I want add another one 1GB ram, which is the same DDR and MHZ as Kingston, just that it is Corsair. Can I use two 1GB ram of two different brand? does the dual channel still work?

Answer 1

First off, "dual channel" is a different type of memory than regular DDR ram. (It does NOT mean two slots on motherboard). It means that the motherboard is designed with two memory channels instead of one....(not to be confused with memory BANKS). The two channels handle memory processing more efficiently by utilizing the "bandwith" of the two modules reducing latency (lag or timing delay). If you only have one memory chip installed then you are NOT using "dual-channel". DUAL-CHANNEL "MUST" BE RAN IN PAIRS TO WORK CORRECTLY and MUST SAY THEY ARE "DUAL-CHANNEL" WHEN PURCHASED!!!

You may use different brands of memory as long as they match in speed and type.

For example,..there is single-sided DDR and and dual-sided DDR,..although you may think they are alike, they are not. The best rule of thumb is to match both memory chips for SIZE, SPEED, AND TYPE.

Dual-channel memory allows for higher bus speeds to be achieved and therefore increases system performance, however, your motherboard must be able to "support" dual-channel and MUST say so in the user manual. It also tends to be a little more expensive than regular DDR ram. So above all, check your board specifications for the SIZE and SPEED allowed according to your motherboard manual and match it accordingly!

Answer 2

If you have 1066 installed and buy 1333, you wont be able to run the 1333 at 1333, you will have to under clock it to 1066 and it'll be a pain in the but. Just buy 2 more 1066. the speed isn't TOO remarkable unless you go from 1066 to like 1600.

Answer 3

Generally yes if they have the same speed and SPD (timings) and if your motherboard is capable of dual channel memory mode.

Answer 4

yes they will work.i have dual channel also and i have 2 different brand rams and they work just fine