1 GB (512mb x2) vs 1 GB (1 GBx1)? Big difference?

Is there a big difference between the two, like does one have a lot more benifits over the other? I wondering if i should pay the extra 100 dollars for the 1 GBx1.

 

Well, in any case make sure if you're going to get memory get it third party, you will save a LOT of money, just buy base for whatever notebook you're planning on (that is if your looking at something) Upgrading Ram yourself these days have gotten pretty simple for normal users, as long as you follow the instructions to the LETTER.

To take full advantage of Dual channel, you need two matched pairs of memory modules from the same brand and model. This is theorically suppose to double your bandwidth, and has been proven in real world performance to help a lot.

So yes there is a difference, if you're planning on having 1 GB, than 2x512MB is the way to go, however if you're thinking about upgrading ram even more in the future such as to 2GB, might as well just get 1x1GB module now.

 

Are you sure you have the prices right. Generally, I have seen $100 more for 512x2 b/c they are matched sets.

512x2 gives you dual channel, and maybe double bandwidth, but most reviews I have read put real world performance gain at around 3-5%. On the other hand, you have both slots filled so you have to throw away some memory to upgrade - one stick to go to 1.5G, both sticks to go to 2G, while 1x1G, means you just drop in another 1G stick to run 2G.

 

Dual-channel memory is overrated, and the real world difference is nil. Even in benchmarks, it would not be that noticable. I suggest going with a single 1024MB stick so you can expand later.

 

Well for $100 more, I wouldn't upgrade via the manufacture...

from newegg, you can get a stick of 1 gb for ~$80.

So if you replace one of your 512mb with the 1 gb, you can have 1.5 gb of Ram for $80 as opposed to $100 for only 1 gb

As for the dual channel, you do not need to have the same brand, bandwidth, etc to run dual channel..... if your pc supports dual channel, then it will do it as long as you have both slots filled.

 

From Sony's website for the FE
"1 GB DDR-SDRAM (DDR2-533, 1 GBx1) [add $200.00]
1 GB DDR-SDRAM (DDR2-533, 512 MBx2) [add $100.00]"

What confuses me is upgrading. If i get 1 GBx1 i can just stick in another later? Do laptops generally have two slots for ram? Also if get 512 MBx2, i can just replace one of the 512mb with any kind of ram right?

 

So it does, they are charging for the convenience rather than the performance - makes sense really.

Yes, but you are out $200. Or as mentioned, you could get the stock 256x2, remove one and throw in an $80 1G stick from newegg and have 1.25G for $80.

Generally, yes. And if they have configs of 256x2, 512x2 and 1Gx2, then that one has at least two.

Right. Or if you get 256Mx2 - Has to be DDR2-533 (or 667) but 533 is more common and cheaper. (Not DDR-SODIMM).

 

I would wait and get the 2gb all at once, so you only have to crack the pc open only once. But thjats just me, and you may not require 2gb of ram.