Confused about RAM
Confused about RAM
After reviewing several forum discussions about RAM choices for my new setup, I feel even more uncertain than when I began. Every positive review seems balanced by a critical comment. The main challenge is grasping the pros and cons clearly enough to decide what matters. I already own a Ryzen 3900X and an Asus ROG Strix X570-E motherboard. For its price, I’ll also bring my existing EVGA 1000W PSU, a Samsung 970 Evo Plus M.2 SSD, and my Corsair H100i Pro. The only items I need to buy are a GPU and RAM. The GPU is straightforward now—I’m planning a 2080 Super and possibly upgrading to a 3000 series card this summer. That leaves RAM as the focus. Timings, latency, overclocking potential, all the details are overwhelming. I’ve overclocked before, but never with RAM. My goal is around 3600 MHz and CL16 performance, which is still unclear. I believe my understanding of those numbers is limited. Unfortunately, I attempted to interpret them but didn’t fully grasp what they mean. The point is, many guides suggest criteria but stop short of concrete advice. Ideally, I’d like to stay under $250, though a 32GB RAM package with 3600 MHz and CL16 would be ideal for gaming, video editing (Adobe Premiere, After Effects), and some CAD work. I’m still trying to make sense of these specifications. Would your suggestions help clarify things?
Sure, you're thinking about getting the 3600 Cas 16. Buying it outright and configuring the XMP profile in BIOS is a great approach for Ryzen 3rd generation processors. Prices are currently reasonable too. I'm sure many experts agree on this.
Zen 2 integrates smoothly with most available kits, especially those rated for 3600MHz XMP. If your setup supports it, you can fine-tune the main clock settings manually. I personally used a 3600MHz TridentZ kit (19CL) and adjusted it to 16CL. Avoid focusing solely on 16CL models unless they're noticeably pricier than higher-end 18-19CL options.
3600 represents the RAM's clock speed at 3600MHz, while CL16 denotes the CAS latency. For most systems—especially those with Ryzen processors—prioritize high speeds combined with minimal delays to achieve optimal performance. Generally, you'll reach diminishing returns around 3200Mhz for Cl34 or 3600Mhz for CL16. Both offer a good balance of speed and cost. Based on current market prices, the 3600Mhz CL16 provides excellent value and is the top choice unless you need significantly higher speeds at a much higher price. When upgrading to 32GB, opting for a 2x16GB configuration is recommended. Running faster RAM reduces the number of DIMMs, which lessens stress on the IMC and helps maintain stability. More DIMMs mean increased load on the controller, raising the risk of issues. You're unlikely to face stability problems just by enabling XMP profiles, but minimizing the number of sticks is always preferable. For your setup, consider dual or quad channel configurations depending on your needs, and for larger capacities, go for 64GB or more unless aesthetics matter.
Be mindful of certain kits. Review user feedback and comments about OCing, ratings, etc., before deciding you can adjust timings. For instance, 3200 CL16 kits are well-known for being problematic Hynix AFR memory chips that struggle beyond their limits—often not improving performance meaningfully. I own several of these that won’t even reach 100 MHz without severely compromising timing or tightening it effectively. A 3600 CL16 model seems better suited, though cheaper options may have similar issues if they lack a strong reputation for OC success.
Sure, but purchasing a 3600MHz kit guarantees compatibility at that frequency, even though it carries some risk with a 3200MHz model.
Thankfully, for my budget at least, my case isn't clear, so aesthetics are pointless. When it comes to OC'ing, I think I'd prefer something out of the box that's great, and gives me the potential to make it better. BUT, and a big but, there's an above 50% chance I never touch any of the settings and keep things as they come. From what I've read, that means I shouldn't buy cheaper RAM and attempt to improve its performance; I'm better off spending a premium upfront.
Prefer a model from 2070S, use about 80% of the 2080S, and keep the funds aside for other uses or future needs. These two options seem similar in PCB layout (A2), only differing in a heatsink and RGB LED. Also, verify the timing settings—lower is better, CL16 should stay at 3600MHz with 16-16-16, 16-18-18, 16-19-19 or 16-20-20.
Thank you! I don't require RGB since my setup lacks any glass panels.