It is possible to have three sticks of RAM in a computer system. However, it is important to note that using an odd number of sticks can affect the performance of your system compared to using a matched pair in dual channel mode.
When it comes to RAM configuration, it is generally recommended to use matched pairs of RAM sticks, especially if your motherboard supports dual channel memory. This means that you would typically install two sticks of RAM that are identical in terms of their capacity, speed, and timings. This configuration allows the memory controller to access two sticks simultaneously, which can enhance performance.
However, if you have an odd number of RAM sticks, such as three, you will not be able to achieve the same dual channel memory performance as with a matched pair. In this case, the memory controller will operate in single channel mode, which may result in slightly reduced performance compared to dual channel.
It is worth mentioning that some motherboards may support a feature called flex mode or asymmetric dual channel, which allows for the use of three sticks of RAM while still utilizing dual channel memory. In this configuration, two of the sticks will operate in dual channel mode, while the remaining stick will operate in single channel mode. This can help optimize memory performance to some extent, but it is still not as efficient as using matched pairs in pure dual channel mode.
When it comes to stability and optimal performance, it is generally recommended to avoid mixing different sets of RAM sticks. Ideally, you should use RAM sticks that are from the same manufacturer, have the same capacity, speed, and timings. This ensures compatibility and reduces the chances of any potential issues.
In terms of personal experience, I have used both dual channel and single channel memory configurations with different numbers of RAM sticks. While there may be some performance differences, the actual impact on day-to-day computing tasks is often negligible for most users. However, if you are engaging in memory-intensive tasks such as gaming, video editing, or running virtual machines, the benefits of using matched pairs in dual channel mode become more noticeable.
While it is possible to use three sticks of RAM in a computer system, it is generally recommended to use matched pairs in dual channel mode for optimal performance and stability. Using an odd number of sticks can result in slightly reduced performance compared to dual channel configurations, but the actual impact may not be significant for everyday computing tasks.