Does "physical" size of ram matter? (Not speed)

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Kusaywa

Weaksauce
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Mar 11, 2003
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I just bought some ram off of ebay (2GB Kingston KVR800D2N5/2G DDR2 800MHz PC2-6400). "Physically", this ram is rather small compared to the ram I already have installed (OCZ Platinum XTC 2GB Dual Channel PC6400 Memory - DDR2-800MHz). I'm not talking about the speed, since they are both 2gb PC6400 800Mhz ram. I'm talking about the physical size. The Kingston is rather small. Just curious... Thanks
 
By smaller do you mean shorter? If its smaller in any other dimension its not going to fit in the slot...
 
I think we are talking about memory height. If so, that doesn't matter specifically. However, if you are going to try and mismatch modules in the same system I'd tell you not to waste your time with that. It probably won't end well.
 
Sorry, never got any notification that there were responses. Anyway, ram fits and works OK. Wasn't expecting miracles but can tell a little difference. I just never seen ram so small. Haven't noticed any performance problems. I currently have 2 (4gb) OCZ Platinum XTC 2GB and threw a 2GB Kingston KVR800D2N5/2G in with it. Dan_D are you saying I should go with all OCZ Platinum XTC 2GB's? Thanks everyone
 
What he is saying is that once you start mixing different models of ram, the system could get finicky.

I haven’t noticed any performance hit but I guess I don’t push my systems to the limit all too much.
 
The shorter height RAM modules are sometimes required for systems that don't have the height clearance for full size modules. I've seen these too before and they're no different than any other modules--just to to make sure the specs are okay and matching, etc for optimal performance.
 
The only thing that matters (as long as it physically fits) is the speed its rated for.
 
Yeah I have some office machines that have 4 totally different 2GB sticks in them but they have worked solid for years. If you dont mess around then in most cases it's fine.
 
don't fat shame the RAM :)
mixed usually will work with match speeds and timings but can have issues depending on the mobo ususally. if you have to mix try and match the actual chips used as well as the speed/timing. ie different brand but both using Hynix or Samsung chips. but for almost zero chance of issues, use all matched brand/speed/timing/chips.
 
I never understood why there wasn't more low profile RAM available, especially in higher speeds. Corsair LPX is about it. I don't want gigantic heatsinks and RGB lighting. I want something that will fit with my gigantic heatsink or radiator.
 
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