Processor designed for 3200MHz memory capacity
Processor designed for 3200MHz memory capacity
I recently chose the i5 10600k with an Aorus Elite AC motherboard, but the 2666MHz clock speed was disappointing. I’m thinking about adding more RAM later, aiming for a 3200MHz CL16 Trident Z RGB. What CPU suggestions do you have for gaming that can handle 3200MHz? Would it be worth upgrading just for the higher speed instead of sticking with 2666MHz?
No official support exists for a 3200 processor. Use 3200MHz RAM with your existing CPU.
Postpone any CPU upgrade plans. Consider getting Zen 3 in September—it's a smart move.
The officially supported RAM speed is the base clock. Anything above that is XMP (eXtreme Memory Profile), which is essentially an overclock. When you see 3200Mhz listed, that's the XMP profile speed. If your board supports XMP and you turn it on, you'll achieve that 3200Mhz.
Not entirely accurate. Similar to Zen 2, the officially approved RAM speeds are a fixed 3200 when CPU and RAM align, but exceeding it isn't assured—even with 3600 RAM. Any label marked (OC) for your motherboard and CPU specs isn't guaranteed. It's very probable you can run 3600MHz on Zen 2, but 3200 is the official limit. Above that depends largely on the chip design. Most systems will use 3600MHz, though I've built a few that only sustain at 3200.