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The best RAM stores active data, apps, and tasks in a way that makes them easy for the processor to get to. To keep your PC running quickly, it’s important to choose high-quality RAM. If you’ve noticed your computer slowing down, you probably need to upgrade to a better and faster RAM. Most people do well with 16GB of DDR4, but we found out before the new year that the PC version of Returnal works best with 32GB.
With that in mind, the tide may be slowly starting to turn, so it might be a good idea to think about making some changes. Many different companies release new memory kits with different speeds, timings, and capacities all the time. This makes it take a long time to look through what seems like an endless number of models of RAM sticks.
Best RAM
G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo RGB DDR5-6000
Specification
| Computer Memory Type | DDR5 SDRAM |
| Voltage | 1.35 Volts |
| Manufacturer | G.Skill |
| Series | Trident Z5 RGB |
The Trident Z5 Neo RGB DDR5-6000 C30 is hard to dislike for any reason. The memory kit works perfectly right out of the box and does a good job. Most people will buy from you just because of that. As usual, looks are a matter of taste, but you can’t argue with the Trident Z5 Neo RGB’s high-quality exterior.
Like its competitors, G.Skill’s memory kit is made with SK Hynix M-die ICS, so memory modules can still be tweaked. Prices for DDR5 still change, but DDR5-6000 C30 memory kits start at $159.99 right now. When you think about that, the $179.99 price tag on the Trident Z5 Neo RGB DDR5-6000 C30 doesn’t seem so bad.
Pros
- Superb performance
- Cheaper than the competition
- AMD EXPO certified
Cons
- Early adopter price
Samsung DDR5-4800
Specification
| Computer Memory Size | 16 GB |
| Memory Speed | 4800 MHz |
| Number of Pins | 288 |
| RAM Memory Technology | DDR5 |
The Samsung DDR5-4800 C40 memory modules are a good choice for people who want basic performance that they can install and forget about. Even though the Samsung DDR5-4800 memory doesn’t look great, it has plenty of room to overclock. That’s the most important thing about the memory.
If you want to try your hand at B-die overclocking, the Samsung DDR5-4800 memory won’t make you feel bad. Our sample reached DDR5-5800 C36, which is one of the better DDR5 configurations. The Samsung DDR5-4800 memory is one of those high-risk, high-reward products because the results of overclocking will vary from person to person.
Pros
- Good DDR5-4800 performance
- Samsung B-die
- Huge OC potential
Cons
- Green PCB (for some)
- Not available as a kit
Corsair Vengeance LED
Specification
| RAM | 32 GB DDR4 |
| Computer Memory Type | DDR4 SDRAM |
| Memory Speed | 3000 MHz |
| Manufacturer | Corsair Memory Only |
When it comes to the best RAM on the market, Corsair is one of the most trusted brands. Its LED DDR4 options, especially in its Vengeance series, have something for everyone. This RAM has strong heat spreaders that allow for higher overclocking and maximum performance. They also give PC builders that extra touch of colourful lighting.
Corsair’s Vengeance LED DDR4 series also has CL16 latency and whopping 3,466 MHz speeds, so it’s as fast and responsive as it is pretty. This is still DDR4 RAM, so it’s not as fast as the new DDR5 RAM modules we’re starting to see, but if you’re on an older platform, this is definitely the best choice for most people.
Pros
- Great overclocking performance
- Vibrant LED
Cons
- Pricey
Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB
Specification
| Computer Memory Size | 32 GB |
| Memory Speed | 3200 MHz |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 32.0 GB |
| RAM Type | DDR4 SDRAM |
Corsair’s Dominator Platinum memory has always been at the top of the list if you want the best of the best and don’t care about price. But it has been updated with Corsair’s new Capellix RGB LEDs, making it look much more colourful and rich.
The Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB is one of the best RAM kits because it has the same high-end RAM we know and love, with speeds up to 3,600 MHz. Unfortunately, this RAM won’t work with AMD Ryzen chips. It only works with Intel chips.
Pros
- Great performance
- Looks great
Cons
- Not compatible with Ryzen
TEAM XTREEM ARGB DDR4-3600 C14
Specification
| Computer Memory Size | 16 GB |
| Memory Speed | 3600 MHz |
| RAM Memory Technology | SDRAM DDR4 |
| RAM Type | DDR4 SDRAM |
This Team Xtreem ARGB RAM kit is not your typical DDR4 RAM. It’s one of the few 3,600MHz kits with a CAS latency of only 14. That makes it the best low-latency RAM for gaming PCs, especially those with AMD Ryzen 5000-series (Zen 3) processors. Because of this, it is our top choice for the best DDR4 RAM for gaming.
Not too long ago, a kit with such a good balance of price and performance would have been unthinkable. DDR4 memory is really getting better with age. Just a few years ago, a good DDR4-3200 kit was considered high-end, but now 3,200MHz is the minimum for a good gaming system.
Pros
- Great for AMD Ryzen Zen 2/3 chips
- Subtle RGB
- Great price
Cons
- Expected a little more from overclocking performance
HyperX Predator DDR4 RGB
Specification
| Computer Memory Size | 16 GB |
| Memory Speed | 3200 MHz |
| RAM Memory Technology | DDR4 |
| Size | 16GB Kit (2 x 8GB) |
The HyperX Predator DDR4 RGB is a great set of RAM made for gaming. Unlike some other DDR4 memory kits, this one starts at 2,933MHz instead of 2,400MHz or 2,666MHz. It can even run at a native speed of 4,000MHz, and we haven’t even talked about its ability to be overclocked yet.
It has addressable lighting, just like any good modern memory kit should, but HyperX has taken RGB one step further by adding Infrared Sync technology to make sure that all of the DIMMs have the same lighting effects. Overall, this RAM for gaming looks as good as it works.
Pros
- Competitive performance
- No RGB
Cons
- Some buyers want RGB
Teamgroup T-Force Dark Z
Specification
| Computer Memory Size | 16 GB |
| Memory Speed | 3200 MHz |
| RAM Memory Technology | SDRAM DDR4 |
| Size | 16GB (8GBx2) – 3200MHz C16 |
The Teamgroup T-Force Dark Z is a good deal for a DDR4 straight-shooter. You can get 16GB of memory for less than $125. It comes with a stylish metal heatsink that protects the memory chips and is only 43.5mm high. Given the price, this set also makes it easy to upgrade to 32GB of memory if you hate having to close Chrome when you’re playing games.
These DIMMs have a good overclock of 3,200MHz right away, and the 16-clock CAS latency keeps things moving quickly. Both AMD and Intel motherboards can run these memory modules at full speed, as long as the board and CPU support speeds up to 3,200MHz.
Pros
- High frequency
- Great for Intel CPUs
Cons
- Not super widely available
FAQs
Which is the fastest RAM?
DDR4 memory has speeds that start at 2400 MT/s and is faster and more responsive than all previous generations. DDR4 is for people who want to get the most out of their system. It is optimised for gamers, professional designers, and enthusiasts who need to get the most out of their data rates.
Is 32 GB RAM overkill?
If you can’t live without your gaming PC, you might want to go all the way up to 32GB. People often think it’s too much to spend money on a 32GB storage unit, but there are a few good reasons to do so. First, you can run almost anything without breaking a sweat. Your computer has enough space at the table to work well.
How many GB RAM is best?
We suggest 4GB for browsing the internet and sending emails, at least 8GB for people who use spreadsheets and flash games, and at least 32GB for gamers. If you don’t have enough RAM, your computer will run slower.
What is the max RAM speed?
RAM speeds usually range from 800MHz for older DDR2 modules to 5200MHz for DDR5. Most DDR4 modules from this generation run at 3200MHz.