Are you a seasoned gamer? Choosing the right 16GB DDR4 RAM is crucial for effectively meeting the technical requirements of your gaming PC and maximizing its capabilities! If you're looking for the best quality 16GB DDR4 RAM, you've come to the right place!
Discover the best models to buy for 2020 and our complete buying guide to choosing it like a pro!
1. Patriot Viper RGB DDR4 4000 RAM for performance
Features and Reviews
To be honest, this 16GB DDR4 RAM model is the highest performing among the many models we reviewed in 2020. The Patriot Viper RGB 16GB DDR4 RAM is one of the fastest and particularly suitable for gaming.
Its power and excellent value for money explain its popularity among gamers who want to enjoy both LED overclocking and RGB lighting. This LED system, combined with its superior finish and the aesthetic design of the LED strips, showcases the RAM in all its technological glory.
Patriot Viper RGB 16GB DDR4 RAM also stands out, notably for its five speed settings, two colors, and four lighting systems. Let's just say that no PC gaming enthusiast can afford to be without it.
- Frequency: 4133 MHz (DDR4-3600)
- 16 GB capacity
- Number of memory modules: (2 x 8 GB)
- Timings: 19-26-26-46
- Voltage: 1.35V
- Integrated support: XMP 2.0
2. Crucial Ballistix BL2K8G36C16U4W, excellent value for money!
Features and Reviews
This is one of our favorite 16GB DDR4 RAM modules of 2020. In fact, it's one of the most groundbreaking technological innovations of the year. If we had to recommend a 16GB DDR4 RAM module with an unbeatable performance-to-price ratio, we would have no choice but the Crucial Ballistix BL2K8G36C16U4W.
This is an innovative product designed not only for gaming, but also for most tasks that can be performed using a computer. It boasts exceptional performance with a frequency of up to 3600 MHz and a CAS latency of 16.
This level of performance is also justified by its integrated XMP 2.0 protocol, which allows for even deeper RAM utilization without the need for overclocking. The Crucial Ballistix BL2K8G36C16U4W is simply one of the best currently available on the market.
- Capacity: 16GB
- Number of memory modules: 2 x 8GB
- Frequency: 3600 MHz
- CAS latency: CL 16
3. Corsair Dominator Platinum for demanding gamers!
Features and Reviews
This RAM module truly belongs to the Corsair lineage. It's virtually impossible to imagine the DDR4 standard without Dominator Platinum modules. These modules guarantee the Corsair Dominator Platinum DDR4-3 200 exceptional performance and overclocking potential that will appeal to even the most demanding gamers.
This 16GB DDR4 RAM module boasts a 16GB capacity, a CAS latency of 15, and, most importantly, Dual-Path DHX certified cooling technology. Its Corsair Link System technology acts as a temperature monitoring system, confirming its suitability for even the most demanding and discerning gamers.
And to boost the performance of these RAM modules, the integrated support ensures flawless, automatic, and effortless overclocking. So, rest assured, the Corsair Dominator Platinum never disappoints.
- frequency: 3200 MHz
- Capacity: 16 GB
- Integrated support: XMP 2.0.
4. Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB: the best price!
Features and Reviews
The Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB is undeniably the epitome of performance when it comes to meeting the demands of RAM speed. No matter your performance requirements or system configuration, you're sure to be satisfied with this 16GB DDR4 RAM module. It also falls into the 2 x 8GB category and has the added benefit of having been tested on Intel X99 Series motherboards.
It has been designed with high-performance enthusiasts in mind, featuring memory modules compatible with integrated XMP 2.0 support. This allows you to easily enjoy automatic overclocking.
In simpler terms, you have the option of running the module at its maximum speed to reach peak performance. However, you're not required to do so, as most motherboards (like those in the X570 form factor for AMD) support a frequency of 3200 MHz. This frequency pairs perfectly with a CAS latency of 16.
- Capacity: 16GB
- number of strips: 2 x 8 GB
- frequency: 3200 MHz
- CAS latency: CL 16
5. G.Skill Trident Z RGB 4400 MHz: for pro gamers!
Features and Reviews
Style is also a selling point for Crucial, particularly in gaming setups that rely on RGB lighting. But Crucial doesn't stop there. They want you to get the most out of your RAM. That's why they combine an excellent XMP 2.0 protocol with an impressive 4400 MHz clock speed and a CAS latency of 18.
G.Skill Trident Z RGB combines performance and style to provide a wonderful computer experience. However, despite its striking appearance, you must ensure its frequency is compatible with your motherboard. Furthermore, this 16GB DDR4 RAM isn't just about top performance; it's also about price.
- Capacity: 16 GB
- Number of memory modules: 2 x 8GB
- frequency: 4400 MHz
- CAS latency: CL 18
How to choose the best 16GB DDR4 RAM?
Today, we can happily see that the cost of components for building a gaming PC is becoming increasingly affordable! However, it would be a mistake to base your choice of RAM solely on price. Technical specifications are the best way to buy 16GB of DDR4 RAM that will meet your speed requirements! In other words, choosing the right RAM is impossible without considering:
The frequency of the memory sticks
The operating frequency of RAM is a determining factor! It greatly affects the performance level of DDR4 RAM and must be compatible with the motherboard.
Indeed, when the frequency of DDR4 RAM modules is lower than the minimum frequency your motherboard , the consequences can be serious. There is a risk of damaging both your RAM and your motherboard.
However, it is possible to reduce your RAM frequency to match the one specified by the motherboard manufacturer. The good news is that the RAM frequencies recommended by motherboard manufacturers are listed in the user manuals or on their websites. Currently, some of the most common frequencies include:
- 2133 MHz
- 2666 MHz
- 3000 MHz
- 3200 MHz
- 3600 MHz
- 3800 MHz
- 4000 MHz
- 4800 MHz
The capacity of DDR4 RAM
4 to 8 GB is generally sufficient for most everyday uses. But for more intensive tasks or working with many programs simultaneously, it is wise and prudent to opt for 16 GB or sometimes more (32 or 64 GB).
Latency time
Often abbreviated as " CL ", latency ( timings ) is also an essential parameter for choosing DDR4 RAM. By "latency", we mean the number of clock cycles between receiving a command and sending the data.
In other words, this expression refers to the time it takes for the memory controller to route a request and for the information stored on the chips to reach the controller pins. The shorter this time, the better the RAM performance.
However, it is possible to modify it via the motherboard BIOS (for experienced users). The need for a large amount of RAM for your PC, along with low latency, requires a significant budget.
In conclusion, we note that the ratio of latency time to frequency determines the performance of DDR4 RAM (can range from 12 to 19 CL).
Module voltages
Regarding DDR4 RAM, the voltage increases to between 1.2V and 1.35V, even though Intel often directs its customers towards 1.2V batteries. This voltage variation for DDR4 is not without consequences. It indicates that DDR4 RAM models are less power-hungry than the older DDR3 standard .
overclocking certainly . Therefore, some manufacturers recommend 1.35V to maximize the performance of your RAM components.
You might even be surprised to find that the maximum voltage accepted for Intel XMP profiles goes up to 1.5V.
Pay attention to the channels when installing the RAM
We simply recommend installing RAM modules in pairs rather than individually to increase available bandwidth. This allows the dual, triple, and quad channel configurations to effectively utilize the available conductors within the memory array.
Thus, the bandwidth is duplicated in two, three, or four parts. This is all quite feasible since computers offer between two, three, and four slots for memory modules.
Instead of placing a single 8GB stick in one slot, it's better to place two 4GB sticks in two slots. This configuration is commonly known as " Dual Channel " because it allows for two sticks on the motherboard. Configurations with three or four slots are referred to as " Triple Channel" or "Quad Channel ."
However, with DDR4 RAM, modular motherboards offer 4 to 8 slots for installing memory modules. This provides enough channels to connect to the controller, demonstrating the enormous potential bandwidth and memory capacity that can be implemented.
Note that the less memory is shared across modules, the less it communicates with its controller. This is why it's advisable to use four 4GB modules for 16GB of RAM in your computer, rather than two 8GB modules.
Using the same memory capacity across two paths effectively doubles the transfer speed by combining the bandwidth. Furthermore, it is also crucial to choose two modules of the same RAM for Dual and Quad Channel configurations.
FAQ
Why choose 16GB of RAM over 8GB?
Although 8GB of DDR4 RAM may be sufficient for your PC, using 16GB of DDR4 RAM is recommended for processing huge databases and for creating high-definition videos.
It also facilitates photo editing, machine visualization, and gaming in 2K and even 4K on PC screens. The same applies to 3D game design.
16GB of RAM is also essential for optimizing loading times in gaming due to its fast loading speeds. And if you work in a field that uses video editing or 3D software, we absolutely recommend choosing 16GB of RAM!
How to convert a small capacity into 16GB of RAM?
It's possible to upgrade your RAM without having to replace your existing stick. If you notice slow loading times or your gaming PC constantly lagging or crashing, consider upgrading to 16GB of RAM!
To do this, you need to acquire an identical memory stick and know the highest capacity, as well as the frequencies supported by your PC.
As for the installation, don't worry! It only takes a few minutes. First, you need to shut down your PC and power it off. Then, you need to open it using a screwdriver suitable for the task, checking for the presence of any protected screws.
Installing the 16GB of RAM shouldn't take long, as some computers have systems that allow for incredibly fast memory access. Now, secure the RAM modules so they don't move. Once this step is complete, simply close your device and turn it back on!
