The best RAM kit for your money depend on the platform you choose and the kinds of workloads you intend to run, whether you’re building a new PC or replacing an existing system that was once among the best gaming PCs but is now unable to handle today’s games. Since recently, every desktop system has supported the standard DDR4-2133 data rate and has used DDR4 RAM. That’s the simple part now.
When selecting the best RAM, the challenging part is determining whether faster memory affects your system. For instance, most programmes won’t react significantly to faster or slower system memory if you’re using an Intel system with one of the top best graphics cards. On the other hand, some workloads, such as some games and software, will grow well with larger data rates. For instance, file compression tools like 7-Zip or WinRAR prefer fast memory.
On the other hand, higher memory frequencies are more advantageous for AMD’s Zen-based processors. The “Infinity Fabric” (internal bits) used by the business to connect different logic units inside Ryzen CPUs runs at the same speeds as the memory bus. More information on this is available here. Platforms powered by Ryzen and Threadripper frequently experience real-world performance improvements as a result of faster memory. In games of gaming, this means smoother performance at greater resolutions and higher frame rates at popular resolutions like 1080p (1920 x 1080). But depending on the game, the quantity of additional frames you get with faster RAM will vary greatly. Some games are therefore simply more GPU-bound.
Last but not least, whether you’re using an Intel or AMD processor to play games with integrated graphics, memory speed matters a lot (you can see how they stack up in our CPU Benchmark Hierarchy). The majority of the best CPUs for gaming don’t often have a dedicated memory for the graphics engine (as discrete graphics cards do). Increasing your system memory’s clock rate also generally improves performance (again, the performance uplift varies significantly from game to game). If popular gaming is important to you, faster memory is the best RAM for such PCs. You would be better off purchasing slower system memory and a discrete graphics card if you had to spend top cash for the fastest best RAM to get playable frame rates.
In summary, if you’re gaming without a dedicated graphics card, using an AMD Ryzen system, or in some specialised situations with Intel chips, faster RAM is best for you. However, DDR4-2133 memory should be drop-in compatible with any current Intel or AMD PC platform and DDR5-4800 memory for Intel Alder Lake CPUs if you don’t care about getting the most performance out of your hardware.
Quick Tips for RAM Shopping
- The ideal storage size right now for many users is 16GB. In contrast to the more prevalent 1080p (1920×1080) and 4K (3840×2160) video formats, programmes are getting bigger and requiring more memory over time. Additionally, PC games are becoming harder to play, and websites are becoming more complicated every day. In order to avoid using the much slower disk-based virtual memory, strong multitaskers and prosumers may need 32GB, while 16GB is far more accessible and sufficient for gaming and common productivity tasks.
- On motherboards built on AMD architecture, memory speeds that are stated as part of an XMP profile might not be possible. For Intel motherboards, XMP functions as a form of automatic memory overclocking setting. On AMD motherboards, certain motherboard manufacturers provide BIOS settings that can assist you achieve these faster speeds. However, not all motherboards have these settings, and even when they do, they don’t always function properly.
Want the Intel platform’s fastest best RAM speed? Purchase a K-series CPU. Core i9, Core i7, & Core i5 processors from Intel’s non-K series are limited to DDR4-2933 by the inferior H470 and B460 chipsets. The lower limit for Core i3 CPUs is DDR4-2666. Although XMP is not included on the majority of motherboards, those that do can more easily configure XMP memory with improved timings. But keep in mind that these guidelines have been modified by Intel’s newest Rocket Lake architecture. On motherboards using chipsets other than Z, memory overclocking is now possible.
- Memory with two ranks is faster than memory with one rank. Additionally, testing demonstrate that dual-rank memory kits perform better than single-rank memory kits, whether the platform is an AMD or Intel one.
- Purchase a single memory kit every time you need a certain capacity. Even if they come with the same manufacturer and product line, never combine two memory kits or modules. Combining and matching elements might not always result in the desired outcome, and occasionally manual adjusting is necessary to establish stability.
Do you desire the best plug-and-play experience? If you want to avoid little to no user involvement, pick by choosing a memory kit that matches the official memory frequency supported by your processor. For instance, DDR4-3200 is the minimum need for both AMD’s Ryzen 5000 and Intel’s 11th Generation Rocket Lake processors. Remember in mind that on Gear 1, DDR4-3200 is only supported by Core i9 processors. The remaining Rocket Lake chips operate in Gears 1 and 2 at DDR4-2933 and DDR4-3200, respectively.
The best gaming RAM currently available
Best 32GB DDR5 Kit Performance: G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5-6000 (Photo courtesy of G.Skill)
1. G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5-6000 (2 x 16GB)
Specifications
F5-6000U3636E16GX2-TZ5RS is the model.
Size: 32GB (2 x 16GB)
DDR5-6000 Data Rate (XMP)
Duration: 36-36-36-76 (2T)
Current: 1.30V
Warranty: Permanent
Excellent performance, strict timings, and good OC potential are all reasons to buy.
Causes to avoid
– Expensive as all get-out
The data speaks for itself. One of the quickest DDR5 memory kits money can buy is the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5-6000 C36 kit. Additionally, it features the best timings a DDR5-6000 memory kit can find. Trident Z5 RGB memory is able to run at precise timings even after the DDR5-6000 specification is reached because to the best RAM use of Samsung’s B-die integrated circuits. The silicon lottery and the amount of voltage you’re prepared to feed into the memory will determine your ceiling as usual.
Even enthusiasts with vast pockets might be put off by the Trident Z5 RGB DDR5-6000 C36’s eye-watering price tag, despite the fact that it looks good and performs even better. Before buying the memory kit, give it some extra thought because it costs $489.99. The Trident Z5 RGB DDR5-6000 C36 will work well for you if you’ve already made up your mind to choose a high-speed DDR5 memory kit for your Alder Lake system, though.
Samsung DDR5-4800 is the best 32GB DDR5-4800 kit (Image credit: Samsung)
2. DDR5-4800 from Samsung (2 x 16GB)
Specifications
M323R2GA3BB0-CQKOD as a model
Size: 32GB (2 x 16GB)
DDR5-4800 Data Rate
Duration: 40-39-39-76 (2T)
Power: 1.10V
Warranty: Permanent
Good DDR5-4800 performance, Samsung B-die, and a tonne of OC potential are all reasons to buy.
Why to avoid away from Green PCB (for some)
– Limited retailer availability – Not available as a kit
Customers looking for basic performance that they can install and forget will be satisfied with the Samsung DDR5-4800 C40 memory modules’ performance. The Samsung DDR5-4800 memory boasts unwavering overclocking headroom despite its unattractive appearance. That is the most important quality of the memory. With precise timings, you can hit with high frequency. If you wants to try your hand at B-die overclocking, the Samsung DDR5-4800 memory won’t leave you with an bad taste in your mouth. By DDR5 standards, our sample reached DDR5-5800 C36, one of the best RAM configurations. Naturally, your results with overclocking will vary, making the Samsung DDR5-4800 memory one of those goods with a high return but high risk ratio.
The list price of Samsung’s DDR5-4800 C40 memory module at Newegg is $153.26. It’s crucial to stress that this is consumer pricing rather than IT pricing. The cost of a dual-channel system is $306.52. The price of DDR5 is still in flux, but 32GB (2x16GB) DDR5-4800 memory kits presently start at $273.99, making the Samsung memory kit slightly more expensive. However, if you want to overclock your hand, these memory modules are the way to go. They are “cheap” B-die.
For Ryzen owners, the best 16GB kit is: T-Force Xtreem ARGB DDR4-3600 from TeamGroup (Image credit: TeamGroup)
3. TeamGroup T-Force Xtreem ARGB DDR4-3600 3. (2 x 8GB)
Specifications
TF10D416G3600HC14CDC01 as the model
Dimensions: 16 GB (2 x 8GB)
DDR4-3600 Data Rate (XMP)
14:15, 15, 15, and 35 (2T)
Power: 1.45V
Warranty: Permanent
Reasons to buy + good performance + Beautiful design + Effective overclocker + Most affordable kit in its category
Reasons to avoid away from – Limited supply
The Xtreem ARGB DDR4-3600 C14 memory kit was expertly created by TeamGroup, and it surely checks all the right boxes. When switched up or off, the memory kit looks amazing and functions just as well. The fastest DDR4-3600 C14 memory kit we’ve tested so far is the Xtreem ARGB.
Only a few DDR4-3600 C14 memory kits with a 16GB (2x8GB) capacity are available on the memory market. And the Xtreem ARGB is the least expensive of them all, coming in at a price of $169.99. So, the availability of it is the only issue we have. It may be difficult to find because Newegg is currently the only store that lists the memory kit.
Patriot Viper Steel DDR4-4400 is the best high-speed 16GB kit (Image credit: Patriot)
4. Patriot Steel Viper 4400 (2 x 8GB)
Specifications
The PVS416G440C9K model.
Dimensions: 16 GB (2 x 8GB)
DDR4-4400 Data Rate (XMP)
Schedule: 19-19-19-39 (2T)
Power: 1.45V
Warranty: Permanent
Reasons to Buy: Excellent 19-19-19-39 DDR4-4400 timings; Performs better than DDR4-4600 kits from rival manufacturers; Affordable prices and a color-free design
Causes to avoid
– More expensive than the closest-performing RGB kit – Requires motherboards with specific XMP characteristics
Patriot’s Viper Steel DDR4-4400 16GB kit is a great high-performance choice that also omits RGB for those with a system that can handle its top speed and workloads or games that can benefit from it.
Patriot was able to outfit the Viper Steel with improved timings that significantly improve the performance of particular applications, including some games, by keeping the kit basic. The Viper Steel DDR4-4400 fits perfectly in this segment because the market for just gaming rigs and tailored builds made for certain activities is still competitive.
Patriot Viper RGB DDR4-3600 is the best High-Speed RGB 16GB Kit (Image credit: Patriot)
5. Patriot Viper RGB DDR4-3600 (2 x 8GB)
Specifications
The PVR416G360C6K model.
Dimensions: 16 GB (2 x 8GB)
DDR4-3600 Data Rate (XMP)
Time: 16:18, 18:18, 36 (2T)
1.35 volts.
Warranty: Permanent
Reasons to buy: DDR4-3600 XMP timings; overclocking; excellent latency-tuning; compatibility with motherboard RGB software; and more. Free Patriot RGB programme download
Causes to avoid
– LED diffuser results in colour bleeding or merging
Instead of pushing data speeds on its Viper RGB up to 4,133 megahertz (MHz), Patriot defies convention and pairs aesthetic aspects with commonplace DRAM ICs. This DDR4-3600 kit is consequently only $10 more expensive than the white-LED variant and several dollars less expensive than similar-latency competitor devices. At this best RAM, it makes excellent value, however slower kits offer more significant price advantages.
Patriot’s Viper RGB DDR4-3600 Kit, the fastest DDR4-3600 kit we’ve tested, offers outstanding value to buyers who want to go (overclocking capabilities) and show (RGB LEDs).
6. Patriot Viper 4 DDR4-3400 16GB Kit, Best Overclocker Value
Specifications
The PV416G340C6K model
Dimensions: 16 GB (2 x 8GB)
DDR4-3400 Data Rate (XMP)
Time: 16:18, 18:18, 36 (2T)
1.35 volts.
Warranty: Permanent
Top overclocking from a reasonably priced 16GB two-DIMM kit is a reason to buy.
Causes to avoid
– Yet more expensive than budget kits
It may not include fancy software-controlled RGB lighting, and faster kits are available for greater prices, in addition to more affordable kits. Patriot’s Viper 4 DDR4-3400 C16 16GB (PV416G340C6K) is a good option for those who don’t need or want their memory to light like a rainbow and who are looking for a balance between price and performance.
Two 8GB modules with XMP values of DDR4-3400 CAS 16-18-18-36 are included in the kit. These latter three figures aren’t terrific, but DDR3 supporters should remember in time that 16 cycles at a 3400 MHz data rate have the same delay as best RAM 8 cycles at a 1700 MHz data rate. As a result, this kit offers a great DRAM overclocking value and includes some eye-providing red heatsinks to ensure that your memory will look good enough to show in your windowed case.
7. Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro DDR4-3200 7. (4 x 8GB)
Specifications
The CMW32GX4M4C3200C model.
Size: 32GB (4 x 8GB)
DDR4-3200 Data Rate (XMP)
Time: 16:18, 18:18, 36 (2T)
1.35 volts.
Warranty: Permanent
Excellent performance at rated (XMP) settings and at different data rates are reasons to buy. Supports Corsair RGB utilities as well as external RGB utilities Plus affordably priced
Avoid if possible: Didn’t reach DDR4-4000 Pastel colours are emitted by white light diffusers.
Builders that prioritise aesthetics must choose between pieces with the best performance and appearance. In their Vengeance RGB DDR4-3200 kit, Corsair offers a little bit of both, providing four 8GB DIMMs (for a total of 32GB) at CAS 16 timings at a price that, considering current market trends, is comparatively reasonable. Additionally, this kit isn’t just for show; it also performs admirably in terms of benchmarks.
The Vengeance RGB Pro DDR4-3200 receives our Editor’s Choice Award for RGB-equipped memory because to its excellent performance and affordable price, while some builders may find its pastel hues unappealing.
With the exception of the DDR4-4000 setting, where Corsair’s kit fell short of our previous favourite, the HyperX Predator RGB, in overall performance at all speeds. Vengeance RGB Pro is the clear victor here and a great addition to your next RGB build because Corsair also offers a better-performing XMP value at a lower price than the competition.
8. DDR4-3200 Patriot Viper Steel (2 x 16GB)
Specifications
The PVS432G320C6K model.
Size: 32GB (2 x 16GB)
DDR4-3400 Data Rate (XMP)
Schedule: 15-15-15-36
1.35 volts.
Warranty: Permanent
Reasons to buy: Extremely affordable DDR4-3200; competitive performance; and lack of RGB
Avoid this product because: Some buyers prefer RGB
There are just two reasons for buyers in the performance PC market to stop at DDR4-3200: Either they are attempting to save money or they are making an effort to get a good performance out of a system that is only capable of so much.
Patriot Patriot’s 32GB Viper Steel 3200 kit hammers the competition on price for people in either camp, but the former in especially. In our analysis, it undercuts its nearest competitor by over 18%. And that’s without accounting for the performance costs associated with using the same mid-market timings as its rivals.
In our fundamental performance-to-price comparison, even if the Patriot Viper Steel’s performance triumphs are less than 1% overall, its cheap price places it far in front of even the least expensive competition. Value hunters in the performance PC market have thus just discovered their new ally.
9. Patriot Steel Viper 3600 DDR4 (2 x 32GB)
Specifications
The PVS464G360C8K model.
Storage: 64GB (2 x 32GB)
DDR4-3600 Data Rate (XMP)
Schedule: 18-20-20-40 (2T)
1.35 volts.
Warranty: Permanent
Best Offers of the Day
A good overall performance is one of the reasons to buy a strong potential for content producers plus ideal for motherboards with two best RAM slots.
Avoid because: There is little room for performance improvement.
A great memory kit for professionals or video creators without the luxury of multiple DDR4 memory slots is the Viper Steel DDR4-3600 C18. Performance is unaffected because the memory kit performs admirably under all conditions.
Patriot basically pushed these modules to their absolute limit, so even if you’re ready to crank up the voltage, there isn’t much room for overclocking. However, in the majority of cases, operating the Viper Steel at the stated frequency should be more than enough.
The Viper Steel DDR4-3600 C18 64GB memory kit has a very competitive price from Patriot. The memory kit costs $239.99, which is neither cheap nor expensive. Being in the thicks of the competition is Viper Steel. Given its impressive performance, it is simple to suggest this kit to individuals who require speed and density in a dual-DIMM environment.
10. G.Skill Trident Z Neo DDR4-3600 10. (2 x 16GB)
The best 32GB kit for manual tuning is high-speed.
Specifications
F4-3600C16D-32GTZN as the model
Size: 32GB (2 x 16GB)
DDR4-3600 Data Rate (XMP)
Schedule: 16:16:16:36 (2T)
1.35 volts.
Warranty: Permanent
Best Offers of the Day
Good XMP performance and excellent headroom for manual tuning are reasons to buy.
Reasons to avoid clear of: A tad on the expensive side.
If you only consider the Trident Z Neo DDR4-3600 C16 kit from G.Skill’s published specifications, it’s simple to dismiss it. However, during our review, the RAM kit demonstrated its performance and worth under various workloads.
The memory modules employ Samsung B-die ICs, which is where the real value is hidden beneath the heat spreader. You may improve the timings for greater performance with time and perseverance. Your mileage with overclocking will always vary, however we were able to get our sample down to CL13.
The XMP timings for the Trident Z Neo memory modules are 16-16-16-36, which aren’t the worst in the memory industry. However, we tightened the timings down to 13-14-14-35 before the kit proved unstable with the DRAM voltage set to 1.45V.
Budget-friendly Best RAM
Find out our lists of Corsair and Newegg coupons to save money whether you plan to purchase DIMMs that made our list of the best RAM or not.
