RAM Frequency vs Latency
RAM Frequency vs Latency
He suggests getting the most RAM possible with the fastest clock speed for top performance, aiming for minimal latency. For your Gigabyte X570 Auros Master, you should look into high-speed RAM options to ensure smooth operation on a 144Hz display.
Latency matters just as much as frequency, so I suggest using a CL16 and below. A 3600MHz CL16 is usually what I advise.
His findings don’t align with what you expected; instead, low latency takes priority, even if both are desirable. The suggested range around 3600 works well for cost, while options like 3600 16-16-16 or 4000C17 offer quicker performance.
The graphics card takes a back seat, the CPU comes into play. If you're planning to purchase a Ryzen 5xxx chipset, lower timings could actually yield better performance. Steve from GamersNexus achieved significantly higher frame rates—up to 5-10% more—with a 3200 MHz CL14 instead of a 3600 MHz CL16, especially when using four RAM sticks versus two. He also mentioned that Level1Tech suggested even greater gains by pairing two 16 GB single-sided sticks, though he couldn't test those configurations. With earlier Ryzen models, a 3600 MHz or slightly higher might be more practical.
He mentioned needing RAM with a clock speed up to around 4000 MHz, probably close to 4000 MHz, C17 maybe. It's tough to find RAM with CAS 17 available at a fair price. The prices are pretty steep. A bit cheaper would be acceptable if it's under 3800 MHz, since the infinity fabric clock tends to decouple above that point anyway. I'm using this list as my reference for RAM purchases. Link: X570 Auros Master QVL list
I’m still figuring out Zen 3 (the Ryzen 5xxx chips). Based on current trends, most processors should reach about 3766 MHz if you’re using a 1:1:1 setup. You might hit 3866–4000 MHz depending on the model. In the video, Steve mentioned achieving closer to 4000 MHz with pairs of sticks, but he also noted better performance at 3200 MHz with lower latency. If you only have two memory sticks, higher bandwidth RAM could help a bit in games, though it might not justify the extra price. I’d probably go with a standard 3600 MHz Cl16 and tweak it to around 3200 MHz with lower latency for testing. Zen3 chips differ from earlier Ryzen ones—they have a different core layout and slightly varied 32 MB L3 cache, which could mean lower latency benefits in certain games.
You might check that discussion thread and review the final two pages. The screenshots Jumper118 shared clearly explain performance aspects like memory speed and latency. They convey a lot without needing to read every detail. These images represent benchmark results for rendering, not typical daily usage.
I rarely glance at those lists and never let them influence my buying decisions. A QVL entry means we actually tested the sticks in our lab or factory and confirmed compatibility. For premium systems, they might tweak the list occasionally, but usually it stays static after a while. The PDF you mentioned was made on December 8th, 2019—about a year ago. Since then, only a handful of updates have occurred, mainly improving memory support, CPU microcode, and overall performance. You won’t find new brands or series added to that list; it remains stuck in 2019. Just disregard the outdated QVL entries. Opt for well-known brands and series that promise reliable timing and frequencies, and if issues arise, return the item and try another option.