Preferred DDR5 RAM configuration
Preferred DDR5 RAM configuration
Hello, I'm setting up a PC for a friend and wanted to know the optimal balance of price, performance, and future upgrades. This is my first time using DDR5 RAM with AM5, so I'm not very familiar yet. I considered these options:
- 1x16GB 6000 CL40 (67 euros)
- 2x8GB 5600 CL40 (75 euros)
- 2x8GB 6000 CL40 (80 euros)
I plan to pair this with a Ryzen 5 7600 and an RTX 4060 on an A620M Mobo. Are these speeds too high for that setup? I've heard AMD suggests 6000 CL40 for their 7000 series CPUs. Also, I think dual-channel memory is better than quad-channel, especially if you plan to add more sticks later. Since the motherboard might only have two RAM slots, I need to decide on the best setup and what factors matter most. Any other suggestions would be appreciated!
Non-X3D CPUs require a lot of memory and perform best with fast RAM (refer to the previous notes). With a modest budget paired with a 4060, you won’t need to worry much. However, if you upgrade later to a faster CPU, memory speed becomes important again (similar to how DDR4 2133 or 2400 are slow today). AM5 doesn’t seem to like multiple sticks, especially for 32GB, but I’m unsure how it handles just 8GB. If you’re willing to invest around 80 euros, consider buying another 15-20 euros for two 16GB modules, especially since you’re thinking about this.
Two sticks are the ideal setup for gaming. DDR5 memory behaves differently from DDR4, as a single stick operates in Dual Channel since the module is built into the stick itself. This allows two sticks to function in a Quad Channel configuration, which is acceptable for DDR5. Using four sticks can hinder the ability to activate EXPO/XMP, especially when targeting speeds above 6000MHz. That’s why DDR5 manufacturers now produce 24GB and 48GB single sticks, enabling you to use two 24GB or two 48GB sticks instead of four.
16GB or more RAM is sufficient for now, but for long-term security you might consider 32GB. Currently it’s not too costly to double the size to 16GBx2. Look at what’s available nearby, but I’d recommend the 2x8GB 6000 CL40 option at around 80 euros.
These options aren't great considering the size and specs. Instead, consider purchasing Hynix bare PCBs directly. Models like Hmcg78mebua081n/084n, KD5AGUA8M-48G4000, and KD5AGUA80-56G460D are solid choices. They offer better performance than the standard sticks and should be more affordable than XMP RAM. Hynix DDR5 ICs are reliable, so you can expect around 7200 units per die and over 8000 per die. Since they use specific interfaces, sticking to the same model number ensures compatibility for future upgrades. Hynix also provides top-notch DDR5 support, avoiding issues with other brands like Samsung or Micron. For best results, opt for a B650 board if you want consistent performance. If you need something older, a 3070 or 6700XT/6800 should match the new 4060 in price and power.
I'm having trouble finding those in my area. Amazon isn't offering them, and it looks like there aren't any other reliable sources left to purchase them. Thanks for checking that out. What makes an A620 (like the Asrock A620M-HDV/M.2+) problematic is its performance gap compared to other models. The 6700xt only marginally beats the 4060 and costs a bit more, while the 6800 is significantly pricier. With ray tracing turned on, the difference becomes even smaller or vice versa. A used 3070 would be perfect, but they're much costlier and I've had issues with them before. That's not a good fit for me, but appreciate the guidance.
Worse VRMs than their B650 models and no option to adjust the CPU, which results in reduced power efficiency and performance on X CPUs because of their poor initial setup and maximum performance on non-X CPUs if you want to run higher clocks. They are optimized for efficiency, not peak power. B650 HDV clearly offers a much better VRM than its A620 version. Which country is this? Ebay and AliExpress might have some JEDEC 5600C46 TForce Classic units with Hynix chips, according to the buildzoid in his DDR5 buyers guide.