HOW TO

What DDR4 memory should I buy?

Need help figuring out what DDR4 memory is best for you? In this article, we have some helpful tips to consider when making a purchase.

What do you plan to use the memory for?

The first thing to consider is what you want to do on your computer. Are you doing word processing, browsing Internet, playing games, rendering videos, streaming, or doing 3D modeling?

Your RAM requirements will depend on what your daily tasks are. You will want to research what programs you are going to use frequently, including games, to get an idea of the RAM requirements. Keep in mind that multi-tasking on your computer will require more memory.

You also want to look at your current computer and RAM usage. If you are getting close to the full amount of RAM usage during normal use, it may be time to upgrade your memory. For example, if your memory runs 8GB but you use 6.5 to 7GB constantly, you will want to upgrade.

What are the ideal RAM usages?

For basic computer tasks, gaming, lighter video rendering, introduction to streaming, or 3D modeling, you want to have at least 16GB, as 8GB may struggle with these tasks or anything other than light multi-tasking and basic computer tasks like word processing.

If you plan on having heavier multitasking, rendering videos, streaming, 3D modeling, or gaming while other programs are open in the background, you want at around 32GB.

Have you considered the physical size of your system?

You also want to consider the size and dimensions of your computer system to ensure that your memory modules can fit.

If you want memory modules with RGB lighting to light up the inside of your system, keep in mind that our RGB memory modules have a higher profile compared to our LPX series of memory. This means that small form factor and smaller mid-size ATX cases might not have enough space to fit RGB memory modules, so keep that in mind.

If you have an AIO cooler in a top mounted position inside of your computer case, it may affect RGB memory clearance depending on the size of your case. Keep this in mind when trying to decide if you want to purchase RGB memory.

For our own cases, you can reference the individual product pages for the specs, or reach out to our Support Team for assistance.

What memory has good compatibility with Ryzen CPUs?

Ryzen CPUs perform better with higher speed memory. Please note that memory compatibility at higher speeds will depend on your CPU and motherboard combination, and not just the CPU.

Ryzen 1000 CPUs have good compatibility up to 2933MHz.
Ryzen 2000 CPUs have good compatibility up to 3200MHz.
Ryzen 3000 CPUs have good compatibility up to 3600MHz.
Ryzen 5000 CPUs have good compatibility up to 3600MHz+.

Newer chipsets will have an easier time handling higher speed memory. For example, a B550 will handle higher speed memory better compared to B450.

What memory has good compatibility with Intel CPUs?

Intel CPU compatibility with memory modules will depend on what kind of motherboard you have, but the following can be used as guidance:

Intel 6th generation CPUs have good compatibility up to 3000MHz.
Intel 7th generation CPUs have good compatibility up to 3600MHz.
Intel 8th generation CPUs have good compatibility up to 3600MHz+.
Intel 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th generation CPUs can have good compatibility higher than 8th Generation CPUs, depending on your motherboard.

Cross generational chipsets, such as z170/z270 and z370/z390, generally have better memory support on later generation motherboards. However, your CPU will still be a large factor in attaining high speeds.