Z61t: 1GB (1 Dimm) Vs 2GB (2 Dimm). Cost Comparision.

Hi,

I am planning for Z61t. 1GB (1 Dimm) costs 90$ and 2 GB (2 Dimm) costs 260$extra. So a difference of $170.

Can I go for 1 GB (1 dimm) for now, and later add another 1GB myself? Because 1GB RAM outside is available for cheap. How easy is to add the RAM? Will it break the warranty? Also, will it be ok to add different brand RAM in another slot ?

Pls let me know what is the best option.

 

1.) You can add a second DIMM later without voiding the warranty.
2.) It's easy, on the T60 (not sure how it is on the z-series) you have to remove the palmrest and insert the RAM. There will likely be a guide inside the packaging showing you how to add memory.
3.) It's OK to add a different brand of memory as long as you get the right kind.
(either pc53/5400 (667Mhz) or pc 43/4200 (533), whatever is cheaper)

If you are in the States, check out www.newegg.com for memory.

If it's cheaper to upgrade aftermarket I would do so.

 

that's not really true. you fail to mention that there will be a performance hit when using 533MHz, and he should match whatever in in the notebook, not the cheaper.

 

There will not be a performance hit when one adds 1GB more to their system; 1GB to 2GB total. The lower frequency (533MHz) will not run at the speed (performance) of the 1GB already in the system (677MHz as far as I know). Therefore, if it is possible to get the same RAM running at the same speed, your performance will be superior then having 2 1GB sticks at different speeds (the lower speed will be the default and the stick already in the machine will run under its potential).

 

There is no noticeable difference, and in some cases 533 MHz RAM is faster because of lower latencies. If you search the forums you will find a user who benched various RAM types and 533 was indeed faster. 667 MHz memory is faster but has higher latency while 533 is slower but has a lower latency.

The difference (if ANY) is not worth the additional money, IMO.

 

So there seems to be no point to get the higher frequency ram. But does this situation change if you already have one dimm of the 677? Is it better to match with what you have in that case or still go with the 533?