Which DDR5 memory kit will be better?
Which DDR5 memory kit will be better?
Hey everyone! Looking for your thoughts on which memory option is superior for the i7-13700K + Z790. I'm also considering production quality and reliability. Team Group Delta RGB 32GB (2 x 16GB) 288-Pin PC RAM DDR5 7000 (PC5 56000) FF3D532G7000HC34ADC01 - CAS Latency: 34-42-42-84 - 1.4 volts or Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB 32GB (2 x 16GB) 288-Pin PC RAM DDR5 6400 (PC5 51200) CMT32GX5M2B6400C32 - CAS Latency: 32-40-40-84 - 1.4 volts or G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB Series 32GB (2 x 16GB) 288-Pin PC RAM DDR5 6800 (PC5 54400) F5-6800J3445G16GX2-TZ5RK - Quality comes down to price. The kits are around $230. Corsair is definitely my preference for the look, and I’m confident about its build. DDR4 models have been around for five years. But if Team Group or G.SKILL aren’t worse, why not go with them?
It doesn't make sense to choose anything other than the 6400 here. Even 6000 cl 30 will work. For reliability, using the quickest setup and adjusting timing and voltage regularly isn't worth it. Performance drops sharply once you exceed 6400 atm, and success depends a lot on luck with silicon quality. Some people handle higher pressures well, while others struggle.
If only these kits are available, I’d choose the TeamGroup model—it’s the top-rated option and features the best heat spreaders. They actually keep the PMIC cool, unlike some competitors. However, I find it tough to suggest DDR5 kits above 6400MT/s. After experimenting with a 13700K, speeds over 6400MT/s usually need adjustments to memory controller voltages. If you’re planning manual tweaks, consider boosting the kit to 7000MT/s or higher (many modern boards and CPUs support that). The Corsair kit is rated for 6400MT/s, but it’s too costly—around $180 in the US—which adds $50 more than a similar lower-rated kit. It’s usually better to opt for a more affordable option. Issues typically appear around 6800MT/s on Z790 and 13th-gen SKUs, not at 6400MT/s. Finding a 13700K that reliably hits 6400MT/s is rare. In short, stick with a kit rated at 6400MT/s or lower for smoother performance.
I won't increase the memory speed. Everything should function normally. The Corsair Dominator looks like a stronger choice. It depends on the product's quality. IMO
I reviewed a few gaming tests and noticed minimal variation in frames per second. I started evaluating two budget-friendly choices: CORSAIR Dominator Platinum RGB 32GB with 2x16GB DDR5 6000, and G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB Series 32GB with 2x16GB DDR5 6400. Both are priced around $200-$300. I decided to upgrade my system and won’t revisit this for the next five years.
It seems the focus on choosing the top performer isn't worth it unless you're drawn to their appearance. I tend to prefer the Trident Z, especially because it's quicker and more affordable.