RAM: 4x1GB or 2x2GB?

[ta2]

I'm looking to buy some RAM for overclocking my E8500 & ASUS P5E (X38) - extra fast stuff which I will simply underclock. My question is, how do 4x1GB sticks of PC2-8500 weigh up against 2x2GB sticks of the same stuff, all else being equal. Obviously if I get 2x2GB sticks then I would have room for another 4 gig (not sure if this PC will ever get upgraded to 8 gig in it's lifespan though). Are there any performance or stability advantages of one confirguration compared to the other? The RAM will not ever be overclocked, just the CPU.

Thanks!

[TAKTAK]

if it's a new purchase then go for 2*2gb sticks.. it's just easier.. cos if you get 4*1GB then youn may have to give the NB a bit more juice.. and 4DIMMs can slow things down under certain circumstances... and considering it works out @ approx the same price.. its less faffing if you get 2DIMMs

[staffsMike]

Overclocking on 4 sticks tends to be more difficult as there is not way to know if you are getting 2 good sticks. That and what TAK TAK says really, 2x2GB will be the way to go.

If you aren't overclocking and 4x1GB is significantly cheaper then go for it but all things being equal 2x2GB will be the better buy.

[ta2]

Ok, cheers guys will go for the 2x2GB then... hardly any price difference anyways.

On an unrelated note, would a G33 + E7200 (266FSB) + PC5300 be comfortable running at 333FSB with stock fan in a microATX case?

[staffsMike]

Yeah sounds good to me

[hokiealumnus]

Late to the party, but all else being equal, two sticks should overclock better than four. 333FSB should be no problem with an E7200; those things clock like mad and the price is right. You might find yourself itching for more though, so beware of the impulsive urge to buy an aftermarket cooler.