Is DDR5 worth it?
Is DDR5 worth it?
Hello, your setup includes an Intel i7 12700K with 32GB DDR4 at 3600MHz. Considering a switch to DDR5 for CPU-intensive games would be beneficial. You're using an older B660 motherboard and are also thinking about moving to Z-series RAM, since the B660 can't optimize your current CPU fully.
It's the same as saying premium tires don't speed up your car.
Dr3v5 offers great value at 100% over four years, with improved speed and features. But it may not be suitable for a 5-year-old platform.
You should consider sticking with your current setup or plan a full upgrade to DDR5/AM5 if needed. If you're not heavily gaming or doing demanding work, don't rush into changes. Your workload mix matters—if it's a balance of both, you might be fine without major adjustments. Running a 3090 with an 8700K for long gaming sessions is tough, and even after switching to a 5950X, performance remains below 85% across all threads.
This change doesn't justify the expense. Switching from DDR4 to DDR5 for 12th gen isn't cost-effective. You'll likely pay at least $200, possibly more, with only slight gains in most games. Some might notice a 15% improvement, but others could see a drop due to better RAM timings overriding bandwidth benefits. If you must upgrade, consider moving to AM5 instead of risking higher costs.
Not great unless you plan to move your RAM to a newer system—I’d just save some money that way.
but they’ll force you to stop sooner. DDR5 is a good choice if you’re setting up a new system... sort of. You usually don’t plan on the RAM your device supports; you pick the RAM that fits your device, not the other way around. However, given the 250-350 cost for replacing your motherboard and RAM, it wouldn’t make sense for you.