RAM for Ryzen 5900x processor
RAM for Ryzen 5900x processor
Hey there, I wasn't sure about the best place to share this - maybe the workbench section under new builds and planning. I hope I didn’t disturb anyone too much. I’m planning to upgrade my current system (i7 3770, MSI GTX 980 4G) and decided to tackle the CPU first, as it’s been causing issues for me. I chose the Ryzen 5900X because I need more cores for tasks like VMs and Docker. I’m not sure if my RAM will slow down the CPU. For the motherboard, I’m considering the MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk. I was comparing it with the X570 and looked at the VRM tiers and prices in this forum. I went with the B550, hoping it works fine.
For RAM, I’m weighing G.Skill Ripjaws V 32GB DDR4 K2 32GVKC against G.Skill Trident Z RGB 32GB DDR4 K2 32GTZRC. I’m leaning toward the RGB option because of the Samsung B-die support, which Ryzen seems to prefer. Both are 2x16 sticks at 3600 MHz, but I read that the Ryzen 5900X typically runs better at around 4000 MHz. Will that cause a bottleneck? Also, will it support full clock speeds on the B550 board?
I’m keeping the Noctua NH-D15 cooler in mind and hope it fits with the RAM. Later I’ll consider a new graphics card, but my GTX 980 should suffice for now. Thanks!
Vermeer (Ryzen 5000) currently supports 3800 MHz RAM. AMD is developing AGESA improvements to reach 4000 MHz, though most CPUs cannot achieve this without altering the clock frequency.
Discussing variations in the dies, what happens if you choose the more affordable option? Would performance change noticeably on a B550 Tomahawk if installed in second or third slots? Are there other choices besides NH-D15? Also, looking for a space to expand if you eventually require additional RAM would be helpful.
Slot 2 and 4 are configured for dual channel operation. The die differences shouldn't affect performance noticeably.
The internal components are the same. The main variation lies in the heat spreader. One model features RGB lighting while the other does not. Always install them in the suggested slots and follow the recommended settings; otherwise, performance will drop significantly. Optimal setups are the slot closest to the CPU or the middle slot among the remaining three, or fully filling all four slots. Any deviation may force the system into single-channel operation instead of dual-channel.
For performance value, it’s $25 for a basic build. The only drawback is the appearance, which is personal. (I think it looks good with Arctic P12 fans.)
For enhanced cooling and quiet operation, the premium option costs around $76.
If you need extra RAM, consider a 2-module kit to ensure consistent speeds, avoiding slowdowns or single-channel mode.
I chose the more affordable RAM option. For the cooler, I’m considering the Arctic Liquid Freezer II, but it doesn’t fit my case (likely the Phanteks Eclipse P400), so I won’t. I’ll stick with Noctua if placing RAM in the second and fourth slots isn’t a problem. Thanks for your assistance!
The nh-d15s includes a single fan rather than two, yet offers nearly identical performance. This ensures it doesn’t obstruct the first slot. It’s also more affordable. Ram should occupy slots 2 and 4 regardless.