When assembling a computer, be it for office or gaming, users first of all pay attention to the choice of processor, drives, motherboard and other components. And this is certainly correct. But if then, when choosing RAM, the buyer does not pay as much attention to it, then the potential of the rest of the hardware may not be revealed to 100%. And already at this stage a problem may arise, because it is not enough to take one or several large-volume planks, hoping that this will be enough. Therefore, we not only decided to find out which is the best DDR4 RAM 2021 available on sale today, but also give valuable tips on purchasing it.
What to look for when choosing RAM
- Of course, volume is important. It should not be too small, because in theory you can work with 4 GB, but several extensions and tabs in Chrome running along with office applications will show you how inconvenient it is. But you shouldn’t install too much either. Even with a huge budget.
- For example, the Home edition of Windows 10 supports up to 128 GB of RAM. But, firstly, it is almost impossible to find such a volume with one set, and secondly, it is difficult for us to imagine situations in which you will be able to fill it by at least a third. Therefore, you won’t find 64 GB kits in our review either.
- The number of slats also plays a role. For fast work, one module is no longer enough. But two are still enough for almost any task. If you need maximum performance in games or you work in professional software, then you should take a closer look at sets with four brackets.
- The next important points are frequencies and timings. Both parameters affect the speed of operation of the modules, and are inversely related to each other. That is, the lower the delay, the lower the frequency that will be supported with it. To put it simply: the lower the timings, the faster the processor accesses memory cells. Frequency affects the speed of information transfer for processing.
- The last important point is cooling efficiency. It depends on the radiator used by the manufacturer. It also affects the design of RAM, but this is a secondary issue and depends on your preferences. But the cooling must be of high quality, because at high performance the chips will overheat. Therefore, all modern RAM models, if they are not the simplest ones, contain radiators.
Bus frequency and bandwidth
The main parameters of RAM that characterize its performance are the bus frequency and data transfer speed.
The frequency characterizes the potential of the memory bus to transfer data per unit of time; accordingly, the higher it is, the more data can be transferred. The bus frequency and bandwidth depend directly proportionally on each other (for example, the memory has a 1333 MHz bus, which means theoretically it will have a bandwidth of 10600 MB/sec, and the module itself will say DDR3 1333 (PC-10600)).
The frequency is indicated as “DDR2(3)-xxxx” or “PC2(3)-yyyy”. In the first case, "xxxx" indicates the effective memory frequency, and in the second, "yyyy" indicates the peak bandwidth. To avoid confusion, look at the table (it shows the most popular standards: DDR (1), DDR2 (2), DDR3 (3)).
Best Cheap DDR4 Kits
The cost of memory in 2021 has jumped almost one and a half times, although in all previous years it has been steadily declining. As a result, the quality and characteristics of the available memory were far from what customers wanted to see in this product. However, now the situation is changing. The three largest DRAM manufacturers were accused of conspiring to inflate the cost of RAM by creating shortages. Then, for various reasons, memory became less frequently purchased by users. And now its price has begun to decline, even trying to exceed the forecast for the year of about 20%.
Corsair CMK16GX4M2A2400C16
The review begins with good inexpensive memory from Corsair. It includes a pair of 8 GB modules. The same applies to other sets of RAM in this category. Yes, for greater savings you can purchase one 8 GB stick or a set of two 4 GB sticks. But this volume is already on the verge of optimal. If the user likes to game, then even a basic gaming PC should be equipped with 16 gigabytes of RAM.
The Vengeance LPX line, which includes the reviewed DDR4 RAM, has a low-profile design. This allows you to place the brackets in limited space (in micro-ATX and mini-ITX form factors). However, the model in question is not aimed primarily at gamers. Its operating frequency is only 2400 MHz, which is the lowest in the category. And even if it can be overclocked, it will be only insignificant. Moreover, this is not very reasonable, because by paying an additional 1-2 thousand rubles you can get the best DDR4 modules in terms of speed.
Advantages:
- low profile design;
- moderate cost;
- reliability and practicality;
- popular manufacturer.
Flaws:
- weak overclocking potential.
G.SKILL F4-3000C16D-16GISB
The next line is occupied by good DDR4 memory modules from G.SKILL. Looking ahead, we note that this brand is the leader in the number of models in our rating, since its RAM is truly excellent. So, in this case, for just 7 thousand rubles you can get a pair of brackets with XPM support. Users have access to two profiles with frequencies of 2800 and 2933 MHz. If you set the parameters manually, then with standard timings 16-18-18-38 and a power supply of 1.35 V, the RAM can easily reach 3200 MHz.
Advantages:
- overclocking capability;
- stable work;
- parameters out of the box;
- two A-XMP profiles supported;
- excellent price/performance ratio.
Flaws:
- there are no radiators.
Patriot Memory PV416G320C6K
Looking for the best price for a 16GB module kit? Then we definitely recommend RAM from Patriot Memory. The model we chose for review has good timings of 16-18-18-36, a throughput of 25600 MB/s, and an impressive frequency of 3200 MHz.
Important! Initially, the RAM can “start up” at a frequency of 2133 MHz. To fix this, go into the BIOS settings and set the settings manually.
I'm glad that the manufacturer thought through its brackets and made them suitable for both regular and compact cases. If necessary, the user can unscrew the red ridge-shaped heatsink from the top, thereby reducing the height from 41 to 33 mm. But the thickness will always be 8.5 mm; if the DIMM slots on your board are placed too close to each other, then these strips may be right next to each other or may not even fit there.
Advantages:
- the kit is based on K4A4G085WD-BCPB chips from Samsung;
- overclocking potential and parameters of standard profiles;
- good timings;
- good combination of price and features;
- excellent price tag;
- an efficient radiator whose height can be reduced.
Flaws:
- slightly careless attachment of radiators to the board;
- some copies do not work at the stated 3200 MHz.
HyperX HX426C16FB2K2/16
The Kingston company is considered one of the most experienced manufacturers in the RAM market. This brand produces memory in different categories, but models from the HyperX gaming line are in particular demand in its assortment. If we talk about the budget RAM HX426C16FB2K2, which includes a pair of 8 GB modules, then it is an excellent choice for computers built on the Intel platform.
These modules are built on Plug and Play technology. In other words, the user just needs to install it on the motherboard and start using it, because the timings and frequency will be set automatically in the BIOS. We are also pleased with the branded black radiators, which, based on reviews of Kingston RAM, are not only beautiful, but also effectively remove heat, consistently keeping the chips cool.
Advantages:
- reasoned cost;
- cooling design and efficiency;
- good overclocking potential
- no manual configuration required.
Recommendations for selection
One of the key points in choosing RAM is whether the laptop motherboard can support the type of RAM. The next criterion is the operating mode of the PC. Depending on this, the memory module is selected as follows:
- Office work. For this operating option, RAM up to 2 GB and with a frequency of 1333 - 1600 MHz, DDR3 memory type, will be sufficient.
- Multimedia mode. To watch movies or games online on the Internet, you need a minimum amount of memory of 4 GB and with a frequency based on the technical capabilities of the motherboard and processor 2133 - 2400 (DDR4) or 1600 - 1866 (DDR3).
- Professional or gaming. For stable operation of modern programs and games, a laptop must have high technical specifications. The volume must be at least 8 GB (two 4 GB sticks are possible) with a minimum frequency of 1866 MHz, the optimal option is 2133 - 2400 MHz.
- Powerful professional. This operation option should not be limited by budget since you will have to work with powerful programs for three-dimensional design with professional processing of video, audio, high quality photos, etc. In this regard, it is necessary to choose DDR4 type RAM with the maximum data transfer frequency and minimum volume of 16 GB.
Attention! 32-bit operating systems do not support RAM larger than 3 GB. Installing more RAM is accompanied by a transition to a 64-bit OS.
The right RAM can increase the performance of your laptop. In addition, the optimal combination of technical parameters of the motherboard and processor with RAM will save you from unnecessary expenses.
The best DDR4 modules for price and quality
The reduction in cost has had a positive impact not only on the budget segment, where you can now purchase excellent solutions for office, as well as basic and optimal gaming computers, but also on the mid-price category. For a reasonable price you can find fast and reliable RAM for demanding tasks. In this group we will also look at four sets of memory, two of which will be faster, but smaller in size (16 GB), and the second pair will be slightly slower, but larger (32 GB).
HyperX HX432C18FBK2/32
If the user doesn’t want to think for a long time about which DDR4 memory is better, and just needs to buy a reliable RAM for a reasonable price, then the HX432C18FBK2 will be one of the best options to buy. With a nominal frequency of 3200 MHz, this RAM has a timing scheme of 18-21-21. Yes, such values cannot be called impressive, but it is necessary to take into account the price tag below 15,000 rubles, which the manufacturer set for a 32 GB set.
If you cannot allocate the required amount to purchase the entire set, then you can purchase a 16 GB HX432C18FB module, and then, when the required amount appears, buy another one of the same kind. Yes, in the end the costs will be a little higher, but with a limited budget this approach is quite reasonable.
In appearance, the RAM is similar to other representatives of the line. The memory chips used by the company are no different: 16-nanometer E-Dies manufactured by Micron. In standard mode, the strips consume 1.2 V. The RAM throughput is 25,600 megabytes/sec.
Advantages:
- support for Kingston PnP technology;
- good amount of memory;
- operates at a frequency of 3200 MHz;
- work without increased stress;
- overclocking capabilities (in theory).
Flaws:
- high delays.
G.SKILL F4-3200C14D-16GVK
Next up is high-quality memory from G.SKILL, built on top-end B-Die chips from Samsung. And, looking at the nominal timing values 14-14-14-34, users are unlikely to doubt the veracity of this statement. The kit contains two memory sticks of 8 GB each, capable of operating at a frequency of 3200 MHz with standard presets. If you specify higher timings, you will be able to set a higher operating frequency. However, this is only advisable with an AMD Ryzen CPU.
Advantages:
- standard operating parameters;
- excellent overclocking capabilities;
- attractive appearance;
- versions available in other colors.
Flaws:
- bulky radiator.
Corsair CMK32GX4M2B3000C15
Typically, Corsair products are significantly more expensive than their competitors. And, it would seem, this is explained by excellent quality and reliability, but still not all consumers agree to pay impressive money for RAM. Therefore, it is especially pleasant to mention the CMK32GX4M2B3000C15 RAM in the review. If you have the necessary knowledge, then all the characteristics of this kit can be understood from the name. So, it includes two sticks with a capacity of 16 GB each and can operate at a standard frequency of 3000 MHz with latencies of 15-17-17-35. The voltage consumption in this case is 1.35 V.
Advantages:
- duration of warranty;
- impressive performance;
- excellent combination of price and quality;
- good for overclockers;
- beautiful radiators with a small height.
G.SKILL F4-3600C16D-16GTZ
The leader in the TOP of DDR4 RAM in terms of cost and quality ratio is another excellent model G.SKILL. This is an expensive kit that includes only two 16 GB sticks. But it can boast of good throughput of 28800 MB/s and good timings of 16-16-16-36. Moreover, the operating frequency of the RAM in this case will be an impressive 3600 MHz, which is the best value in the review.
G.SKILL TridentZ is an extensive line that includes a huge number of models. One of the best RAMs in terms of reliability is offered in sets of two to eight modules with capacities of 4-16 GB each. The frequency range of each of the strips can be equal to, respectively, 2800-4400 MHz at voltages of 1.25-1.5 V. Of course, we will not be able to cover them all in one review, so consider alternative solutions yourself, because among them you may find a suitable one to you.
But that's not all! Having the best combination of price and quality, RAM also boasts an excellent appearance. Beautiful radiators with several color options will surely decorate any computer. However, please note that due to the height of passive cooling, you will not be able to install some models of processor coolers next to these brackets.
Advantages:
- attractive appearance;
- reasonable cost;
- decent work speed;
- the best RAM frequency in the ranking;
- two XMP profiles for easy setup.
Flaws:
- radiator size.
The best DDR4 High-End memory
We decided to devote the last category in the RAM rating to top-end kits. And what requirements can be presented to such modules? Of course, they must be fast, reliable, cool and beautiful. In the first case, the important parameters are timings and frequency, which in each of the two sets discussed below is 3200 MHz. By the way, both sets include not two, but 4 sticks with a capacity of 8 GB. What about the design? An attractive radiator is clearly not enough here. But if the bars have customizable RGB backlighting, then your computer will sparkle with other colors (especially if it has other components with this option).
Corsair CMT32GX4M4C3200C16
When gamers want to buy RAM for their gaming PC, they often look at products from Corsair. Reliable, fast and stylish - this is what is typical for any RAM model from a well-known American manufacturer. If we talk specifically about the CMT32GX4M4C3200C16 variant, then this is a new product on the RAM market. If necessary, the user can overclock the chips above the standard frequency of 3200 MHz, but the nominal timings of 16-18-18-36 will deteriorate in this case. At the same time, you will get almost no performance gain in games, so there is no point in such experiments.
To adjust the backlight, the user can use a proprietary utility. It allows you to adjust the backlighting of memory modules in accordance with other products of the brand. If you don’t need this option, you can choose a separate color and even a glow option for each strip. At the same time, pay attention to whether this kit will fit your board and your case, because it has quite high and wide radiators.
Advantages:
- excellent characteristics;
- overclocking potential;
- ease of backlight settings;
- magnificent appearance;
- radiator efficiency.
G.SKILL F4-3200C16Q-32GTZR
The rating is completed by the best priced DDR4 memory in the high-end segment. It can be found for about 20 thousand rubles, which is quite good, considering the stated characteristics. Its only problem is availability, because at the beginning of 2021 this kit can be purchased only in a few online stores.
If you could not find the kit in question in your city, then you can purchase options with fewer strips. Sets of 2 modules of 8 GB are more common. In addition, frequencies of 3466 MHz and higher are available for them.
One of the main advantages of this RAM, according to user reviews, is the backlight. It perfectly complements the standard TridentZ design. In addition, in the proprietary utility the user can configure the glow separately for each bar, choosing between 16.7 million shades, which looks simply great.
Advantages:
- timings 16-18-18-36;
- there is XMP support;
- number and design of modules;
- frequency 3200 MHz and overclocking capability;
- attractive price for its capabilities.
Flaws:
- It is very difficult to find a 32 GB kit on sale.
RAM limit
Laptops usually have two RAM slots. Desktop computers usually have 4 on their motherboard. Thus, laptops are more limited in the amount of RAM that can be installed. That is, taking into account the limitations of modern DDR3 technology, a maximum of 16 gigabytes of RAM can be installed on a laptop. And this is provided that the laptop motherboard supports memory modules with a capacity of 8 gigabytes. Most often, the maximum amount for laptops is 8 gigabytes of RAM. Some ultra portable systems do not offer the possibility of increasing the amount of RAM at all.
What should you pay attention to when purchasing RAM modules for a laptop? First of all, you should find out what is the maximum amount of RAM the laptop supports. After this, you should clarify how many RAM slots are on the motherboard and how many memory modules are already installed. That is, if your laptop has 4 gigabytes of RAM, you should clarify whether 1 module of 4 gigabytes is installed or 2 modules of 2 gigabytes each. If 1 module is installed, the upgrade is greatly simplified, since you only need to buy one additional module. It is advisable to purchase an additional module from the same manufacturer. Memory modules must be the same size and the same speed.
Which DDR4 memory kit to buy
Let's start with the top solutions. In terms of characteristics, they have worthy competitors in the middle price segment. And it would be more rational to take them if you consider RGB lighting an unnecessary option. Do you want to save money? Then consider the best DDR4 RAM options in the budget segment. The best option for memory kits would be products from HyperX and G.SKILL, they also distinguished themselves in the price-quality category. Moreover, in the latter case, the available models are both faster and more capacious, which allows you to choose a RAM that meets your needs at the same cost.
