What memory should i buy
What memory should i buy
Hello, I’m still learning about building PCs and picking the right components. For gaming at 4K with a target of 144 FPS or higher, I’m planning to upgrade my RAM soon. Right now I have Corsair Vengeance LPDDR4X CMK16GX4M2D3200C16, but I want to move to 32 GB. The price for 32 GB feels steep, so I looked for alternatives. I found the same Corsair model but with a 3600 MHz speed and a 16 GB version, which is more affordable. The 3200 MHz option has better timing, but the 3600 offers more performance. My current setup uses an i9 9900K, ASUS ROG Strix Z390-E, and a Be Quiet Rock 4 cooler. I need low-profile RAM due to clearance issues with my cooler—34 mm is the max I can get. Would you recommend this model or suggest other options?
The typical response is to check your QVL list. It’s not very helpful for intel since most brands are interchangeable, though it might still be useful. The QVL contains memory modules that the motherboard manufacturer has actually tested and optimized. What’s useful is that they store their tuning profiles, allowing you to insert the RAM, press a button, and your memory will run at peak speed. This isn’t great for Intel specifically but can be a starting point. A download of the list is available here: https://www.asus.com/Motherboards/ROG-ST...pDesk_QVL/
I prefer not to push the speed beyond what’s already set at 3200 MHz. Upgrading to 32 GB RAM is a good idea. I’m looking for the optimal choice that fits my needs.
Yes. So You said. I took that into account. *sigh* MHz goes up by speed, clocks go down by speed. Everyone tests with intel when they make their memory so the chance of something not “working” is near zero as long as everything is the same. Memory prices vary wildly sometimes by the hour, and it’s a price performance thing. So I tell you to buy some this-and-such because it’s good value compared to other stuff two hours later it might not be. That’s just a list of stuff that is guaranteed to work.
To boost your RAM performance, overclocking it to higher speeds can improve data transfer rates. It won’t change the total capacity, but faster clocks may help you achieve better throughput. Choosing a higher frequency like 3200MHz instead of 3600MHz could be worth it if timing is tighter, though 18-22-22-42 might offer more stability. Upgrading from 16GB to 32GB is still beneficial, so consider the trade-off between speed and cost.
Timings match but memory speed remains consistent, meaning slower memory performs better than faster one. When only 16GB is sufficient, faster memory shines; beyond that, extra memory becomes significantly slower. Running low on memory signals a shortage. Adding another 16GB with the same speed and CAS can merge capabilities for optimal performance. For different brands, OC issues may arise due to QVL handling. Consistent results come from using identical components, allowing you to adjust speed without complications. Replacing memory doesn’t affect outcomes—it’s just an upgrade. All systems should function properly.
The memories I consider more affordable than what I own would cost less than what I currently have. For a 16GB memory at 140 USD, a 32GB model with 3600MHz would be about 150 USD. Comparing the two options, it seems the higher frequency might offer better performance, but it depends on your needs.
MHz tends to be preferable over cas, though cas performance also increases with MHz. Extremely high cas (above 20) usually indicates slow overclocking. Comparing the two options, the new RAM is noticeably faster than the older one. The key concern is whether you’re truly running out of memory—then the system will switch to swap space, causing a drastic slowdown. RAM is significantly quicker than even the fastest non-volatile storage. The machine should remain stable during swap events, though it will become extremely sluggish. Out-of-memory errors were common in older systems.