The pace of development in the world has accelerated considerably over time, and it includes the development of technology. When it comes to the word “technology” and we just skip “computer technology” it wouldn’t be fair deed.
Table could not be displayed.So, when we talk about computers, it encompasses many more technologies, and each one of them is a masterpiece itself. This article is about a mandatory component of the computer which is known as RAM or Random-Access Memory.
In this article, we will provide an introduction, information, Best RAM for gaming, best ram brands reviews, buyer guides, and FAQs about the most commonly asked questions.
There are two basic types of memory in the computer; primary memory such as RAM and ROM and secondary memory like Hard drive, CD, Floppy, etc. Then there is another division accordingly between volatile and non-volatile memory; RAM and ROM respectively.
Hence, the RAM is volatile memory, it needs power. Without power, it loses its state or reset. Therefore, RAM only works when the system is plugged in. The actual definition of RAM and how it works are as follows:
Random-Access Memory (RAM) is a form of computer memory, usually used to store working data and machine code. It generally works between physical data storage such as hard drives or CD-RW, DVD-RW, and central processor unit (CPU).
CPU needs data that is stored on physical storage to run any program. The data must be stored into hard drive first, then the hard drive supplies the data to the RAM and once it reaches the destination, RAM provides data to the CPU, it works through the chain.
Now the pace or speed of the data transferring process depends upon the memory if memory is too low it might not be able to get whole data from a hard drive that CPU needs. And when this happens, some of the data returns to the hard drive, which decelerates the computer speed. That’s why you always need to have more memory RAM in the computer to avoid system hangs or speed reduces, especially if you play.
Best RAM For Gaming 2024 (List)
- Corsair Vengeance RGB PRO CMW16GX4M2C3200C16
- G. SKILL Trident Z RGB Series F4-3000C16D-16GTZR
- Corsair Vengeance LPX CMK32GX4M2A2666C16
- Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB
- HyperX Predator RGB HX432C16PB3AK2/16
- HyperX Fury HX426C16FB3K2/16
- G.SKILL TridentZ RGB Series F4-3200C16D-32GTZR
- XPG Spectrix D80 AX4U360038G17-DR80
- G. SKILL Trident Z Royal DIMM F4-3000C16D-16GTRG
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Some Facts About The Best RAM For Gaming
Before choosing the best and suitable RAM for gaming, there are certain things to know first.
The Working of RAM in a Computer
RAM needs constant power to store the data. The absence of power leads to the deletion of data from RAM. It works between CPU and physical storage such as Hard drives or CDs. When the CPU needs data to run the program, it takes it from RAM and RAM takes it from the main storage.
By increasing the memory of RAM, you can increase the capacity of data loaded into RAM. Then there is a frequency that works on the speed of data transfer rate. It is called Megahertz or MHz More MHz means the faster pace of data transfer, which increases the performance of the system.
If you are running heavy games on gaming PC and the RAM is not compatible with the requirements, it eventually slows down the computer and results in system hangs or sometimes crash reports.
RAM is attached on the motherboard through DIMs, these are modules that hold RAM and they are available in different sizes of memory. These days they range between 128MBs to 32GBs per dim.
Then there is a term 32 bits or 64 bits. It is a BUS that presents the volume of bits of the data that are passed through in a single clock cycle. The more bits are transferred the faster system will be. If dims contain 64 bits BUS, they will be able to pass 64 bits of data at a time-besides, there is also a SIMs, which are an older genre of RAM module, they contained only 32 bits BUS, which means they are only able to transfer 32-bits in a single system cock- hence, the DIMs have more speed than SIMs.
Now let’s do some calculations. A single bit is the smallest form of data, and 8 bits make 1 byte. If memory DIM has a 64bit data path, it means it has 8bytes wide BUS. For example, if a RAM has 100MHz speed then it can transfer 800MBs data per second or a single clock cycle. The conclusion is, RAM performance relies on its memory size, speed, or MHz and data path, which also improves the performance of the system.
Types of RAMs
There are two types of RAMs, Static RAM (SRAM) and Dynamic RAM (DRAM).
S-RAM
Static Random-Access memory holds the data in a static form, and it doesn’t need to be refreshed constantly, unlike DRAM. SRAM has six transistors that help to store the data, two of them are called access transistors that control the availability into the memory cell.
SRAM is known to be the faster RAM, but it is way too expensive therefore it cannot be used by everyone.
D-RAM: It contains small capacitors, which store electricity and holds the bits of information in it.
DRAM has to refresh these capacitors continually because the capacitors cannot hold the electricity too long, it leaks it immediately, so they have to be refreshed constantly. This process of refreshing where the name came dynamic because the capacitors dynamically refresh often.
DRAM
It is less expensive than SRAM and is available from 128MB to 32GB memory sizes, which is compatible with almost every system accordingly. Then there are types of DRAM; SDRAM, RDRAM, and DDR SDRAM.
SDRAM
SDRAM is a synchronous and advanced version of DRAM or its kind. It syncs the data with the system clock cycle so that the data flow according to it. This allows the system to perform more accurately and to avoid the disadvantages of asynchronous DRAM such as complex manufacturing processes and slow operational speed.
Plus, SDRAM is way faster than DRAM, and it is crafted in 3 sections of memories, which can perform access commands at the same time. This process increases the speed 3 times. The clock rate of SDRAM is 100 and 133 MHz.
RDRAM
This is another type of RAM which is developed by Rambus.Inc, the manufacturers developed the RIMS or Rambus Inline memory module.
RIMS contain 184 pins that alike DIMS in the structure unless the bottom architecture, the notches are positioned in the center. RIMs became popular in 1999 because of speed. And was used by the gamers for graphics cards and better speed up to 1GHz.
RDRAM debuted in the early 2000s and that time it ran 800 MHz which was significantly faster than SDRAM which ran at 133 MHz but RDRAM has the only 2-byte wide bus, which gives the speed of 1600 MBs per second. As compare to SDRAM which had an 8-byte wide bus that grants a speed of 1064 MBs per second.
DDR SDRAM
As technology-enhanced with the rising of a new era, the SDRAM became more advanced with the newer version called Double Data Rate or DDR. Its performance is alike its name, which means it multiplies the data 2 times in each system clock unlike non-DDR which operates only the rising edge of the system clock cycle, but the DDR utilizes both the rising and dropping edges of the system clock to transfer the data.
This process enhances the transfer rate by double the sum speed of non-DDR. Meanwhile, the system clock’s speed remains the same for both modules, so even if the clock speeds up the DDR will still be faster because it has the advantage of the ability of both edges.
DDR2
DDR2 is the advanced version of DDR, it is faster than DDR due to its better bus speed. It passes the data that is double the amount of DDR. It also consumes lesser power than DDR. Its dims have 240 pins compared to DDR which has 184 pins.
DDR3
Even though it has 240 pins just like the DDR2 but still the DDR3 is twice faster and lesser consumer to the power compared to DDR2. The only difference is the bottom structure. The notches are in different places.
So, the DDR3 cannot be put in the RAM slot made for DDR2, even motherboards are prepared to support a specific type of RAM, we can’t mix or replace DDR with DDR2, 3, or 4 on the exact motherboard.
DDR4
It is an advanced and better type of DDR, it succeeded DDR3. Its dims have 288 pins and it has a faster speed than DDR3 with lesser power consumption, it also provides a higher range of speed than DDR3, like maximum 4266 MHz and the total bandwidth of 34100 MBs per second, which is an extremely larger amount than DDR3.
DDR4 is the latest generation of DDR SDRAM, even though there is gossip about DDR5 and its launch date of July 14, 2024, but it has not yet been shipped. Since the DDR4 is an advanced and modified form of DDR RAM, it is considerably used by gamers all across the world for high definition and larger size of games.
It will possibly remain the favorite among the gamers community until the more advanced generation comes into the market. In this article, we will show and describe the best DDR4 RAMs for gaming, which includes 16GB RAMs and 32GB RAMs.
Some more things are likely to be known about DDR SDRAMs such as DDR is labeled differently than non-DDR RAMs. It includes both the system clock speed and the total bandwidth, like DDR 333MHz PC-2700.
Moreover, all types of DDR are labeled the same, the only difference is the number right after the “DDR” and “PC”, for example, DDR is labeled as DDR 333MHz PC-2700 and others have the difference of their numbers like DDR2 is labeled as DDR2 800MHz PC2-6400, DDR3 is labeled as DDR3 1600 PC3-12800 and so on.
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Best RAM for Gaming PC Reviews 2024
1. Corsair Vengeance PRO
Corsair brand is known for its extremely outstanding performance in developing RAMs, along with it they have been dominating the gamers world with their products. Vengeance RGB PRO is a unique best RAM for gaming with its stunning features and colors alongside with amazing memory speed of 3200MHz.
Vengeance RGB series DDR4 is designed to provide an incredible look with its colorful RGB LEDs, which precisely match the appearance of mid-range, high-end motherboards, and other gaming PCs. Software control allows a full range of lighting via the Corsair link.
Vengeance RGB PRO is made especially for gaming PCs and available in the kit of 2x8GB RAMs. Ensure to enable the XMP profile in the motherboard and BIOS setting and switch the RAM to 3200 to get ultimate benefits. It is also known as the best RGB RAM.
Compatibility: It is compatible with Intel 100, 200, 300 Series, Intel X299, AMD 300, and 400 series. It is also working on Ryzen though it cannot be said that it matches best but still it works.
2. G. SKILL Trident Z
G. Skill is also counted as a producer for the best RAM for gaming. Its Trident Z RGB series is remarkably famous among both the gamers community and developers. It is having 3000MHz with a max speed of 24GB per second data transfer rate and available in the kit of 2x8GB along with some attractive features of the light bar of vibrant RGB LEDs combined with the award-winning Trident Z heat-spreader design.
Trident Z colors have the sharpness of the trident’s blade along with its enchanting ability for the eyes, it can be modified according to the PC appearances for more appealing visuals. Additionally, each memory kit contains a special screened IC and its ten-layer PCB maximizes the signal strength.
Trident Z RGB series also supports the OC profile support on well-suited motherboards, you have to enable the OC profile in BIOS settings to get the maximum level of speed and performance of DDR4 memory speeds.
Compatibility: Latest Intel and AMD series.
3. Corsair CMK32GX4M2A2666C16 Vengeance LPX
If are not fond of lighting and shining threats and want to play in a peaceful environment and you are a pro player, it is recommended for you to pick up this one for your gaming machine. Corsair launched the vengeance LPX non-RGB RAMs to provide decent users a classy structure of RAM with every good feature of DDR4 RAM.
Vengeance LPX is crafted for high-performance overclocking. The heat spreader is crafted with pure aluminum so that the heat dissipation process can be boosted, it provides high frequency and bandwidth rate, and low power consumption. It also supports XMP 2.0. It is available in 8 different colors, which means the more choices for your motherboard appearances.
Even though it is available in the kit of 32GB (2x16GB) but it has a lesser memory speed of 2666MHz than the Vengeance RGB. But it has more compatibility range than Vengeance RGB.
Compatibility: Compatible with Intel 100, 200, 300 series, intel x299, AMD 300 and 400 series.
4. Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB
It is redefined highly modified DDR4 RAM by the Corsair. Dominator Platinum dominated many other memories in the gaming community like its name. As it is a newer model than Vengeance RGB, manufacturers did some advancements with timeless iconic design, superior craftsmanship, and aluminum construction.
Dominator Platinum guarantees space for overclocking due to custom PCB cooled by Corsair’s patented DHX cooling system. By using the iCUE software it is possible to stay notified with real-time frequency and temperature monitoring.
It is available in 16GB kit (2x8GB) holing the speed memory of 32000MHz with maximum data transfer rate 25600 per second. It is also considered to be the best RAM for gaming. Dominator RGB is also known for its top speed of 4800MHz.
Compatibility: Wide compatibility optimized for the latest Intel and AMD DDR4 motherboards.
5. HyperX Predator DDR4 RGB
Another best RAM for gaming is HyperX Predator DDR4 RGB. It is available in 8 GB single kits and kits of 2 and 4 sticks with 16GB-32GB memory. It geminates glitter RGB style with an exclusive performance. You can decorate your PC with some awesome looks without using any cable.
It provides the maximum speed up to 4000MHz which consequently boosts performance and constancy of the system. It comprises extreme overclocking modules that some systems can’t control. You have to be cautious about choosing the components of the system that are required to get the optimum advantage of HyperX Predator. In case, your system doesn’t meet the requirement for profile 1, you may still use the second back-up profile, which is included for slow clock speed.
It doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the maximum speed because the second profile is specially made to improve the performance of slower clock systems. You still can enjoy a remarkable performance even your system doesn’t meet the requirements of the highest XMP profile.
Compatibility: Optimized for intel 100 series and X99 motherboards. Operating temperature 0-85 degrees Celsius.
6. HyperX Fury 16GB
HyperX Fury DDR4 is one of the best RAMs for gaming and cheaper than others. It costs on amazon $75 for a kit. But yet, it still got similar features to expensive RAMs. Also, it has some extra abilities like plug and plays feature, which can automatically overclock the system at the highest speed of frequency.
Most of the DDR4 systems are qualified to run HyperX PnP memory up to the speed limit granted by their BIOS system. AMD Ryzen systems may need some modifications. If you want to enable the factory to overclock speed and latency in Ryzen, you have to select profile 1 in the BIOS.
Compatibility: Latest Intel and AMD CPUs including AMD Ryzen.
7. G.SKILL Trident Z RGB Series
G skill TridentZ RGB 32GB DDR4 RAM has similar features and characteristics as its 16 GB RAM. Decorated with uncovered bright vibrant RGB LED lights that can be modified according to your desire with no cables operating via the program.
The only difference is memory capacity and pair matching. Because if you are using different sticks from various kits you may not be able to operate lights appropriately or RAMs may not have that much impression on system performance either.
So, if you want to use 32 GB memory for your computer you must buy a 32GB kit rather than 2 different 16 GBs kits if you have 4 slots motherboard, and if you have only 2 slots motherboard then definitely you cannot use more than 2 RAM sticks. TridentZ 32GB kit has a minimum memory speed of 3200 MHz, it is considered to be made for gaming purposes and it is for sure the best RAM for gaming.
Compatibility: Compatible with the latest intel series and AMD motherboards.
8. XPG Spectrix D80 RGB DDR4
XPG Spectrix D80 Liquid-Cooled RGB DDR4 may be expensive but it has some cool features like its name and its cooling process. Speaking of cooling the XPG Spectrix D80 has a hybrid liquid cooling system with a low boiling point liquid fluid that is stored in a thermally sealed tube, which reduces the chances of both leakage and evaporation so that it won’t harm the RAM or system physically.
Below the tube, the aluminum heatsink and conductive materials on PCB work together to dissipate heat with the help of liquid rapidly and efficiently. This remarkable cooling system makes it unique and the best RAM for gaming, because gaming computers usually heat up more frequently than others due to the load on GPU and CPU by heavy graphics and definition games.
Moreover, XPG Spectrix D80 Liquid-Cooled RGB DDR4 is the first RAM to introduce this unique cooling system. Apart from it, it has eye-catching RGB LEDs that captivates the vision and adorns the machine with its adorable style.
Plus, you can operate these lights via program to change or customize its speed, intensity, and patterns by your desires. If we speak of speed the XPG Spectrix D80 Liquid-Cooled RGB DDR4 compete with other DDR4 RAMs as well, it has 3600MHz BUS speed and provides a wide frequency range from 2666MHz to 5000MHz.
Compatibility: Intel x299 and AMD AM4/Ryzen platforms.
9. G. SKILL Trident Z Royal Series
Trident Z series is better known for its jewel design, lighting, and eye-catching beauty of colors. Trident Z Royal series has some different and new styles resembling its name ROYAL. The top part of the RAM is bejeweled with crystals, which makes a reflection of an imperial glory and its appearance lordly magnificence.
Its heat spreader is made of 100% aluminum with gold and silver royal colors. The RGB LED lights to glow through the crystalline that fills up the crystal bar with its cold and calm colors like an ocean filled the glass. Besides its outstanding beauty, the G. Skill TridentZ Royal has some remarkable memory speed that makes it one of the best RAMs for gaming.
It provides 3000MHz BUS speed and the frequency rate goes beyond 4600MHz, it is available in 16GB (2x8GB) kit. If you want to give some royal touch to your PC, it is suggested that try it out.
Compatibility: Compatible with the latest Intel and AMD series.
Best RAM For Gaming FAQs
Can we use the PC RAM in laptops?
No, you can’t use the PC RAM in gaming laptops, the main reason is its size. The laptop RAM is always smaller than PC RAM in physical size, and they also have different pins. As we cannot put the DDR4 in the motherboard dims that are made for DDR3.
Can we pair the sticks of RAMs from different kits on the same motherboard?
It is recommended that you use both sticks from the same kit, but if it is not possible for any reason then ensure that you have both the sticks have the same memory capacity, brand, model, and frequency speed. In this order, you may be able to pair the RAMs.
How much RAM do I need for gaming PC?
If you are a novice level gamer, it is suggested you use 8GB RAM to avoid spending extra money on RAM which you could use on other parts of PC such as Graphics Cards or Processors, etc.
Because it is seen that usually, entry-level gamers don’t play the higher requirement games, so it is not necessary to have that much RAM if it has no use. On contrary, if you are a pro player then you know what suits best for your PC or your game.
How does RAM affect gaming?
Usually, RAM enhances the performance of the system and helps with running multi programs at a time. So, it is obvious that it boosts the speed of gaming too. It leads to quick loading and improves the gaming experience. Additionally, it can also remove some burden from CPU and GPU.
Is 32GB RAM is best for gaming?
It will improve nothing it’s just a waste of money if the game requirement is not much that higher. More capacity of RAM only effects on multi-tasking, suppose you have a 10×10 ft desk and you work only with 2 or 3 files which encompass only 10% of the desk then the rest of the area of the desk is useless, but if you have stacks and bundles of files and papers which surrounds the whole desk, then it is enough for you.
The same happens with RAM, assume RAM as a desk and your work on PC as few papers or stacks. So, normally, 16GB RAM is considered enough for gaming purposes.
What if the system requirement doesn’t match with the game but I have more RAM than recommended, will the game still perform faster or appropriately?
If you don’t have the required configuration of PC for any game, increasing the amount of RAM won’t improve anything, because RAM only supports CPU and GPU and improves the speed, it’s not reliable. In fact, in some scenarios, the higher amount of RAM could harm the PC, because some PCs BIOS doesn’t support the higher memory of RAM.
What is the best RAM?
If we talk generally, the latest and most advanced RAM is the best. But when it comes to a specific condition then it depends. There are various types of RAMs as stated before. So, each system and motherboard have its requirements for RAM. Whereas, some programs, software, and games also have their specifications.
In this scenario, while choosing the best RAM you always need to determine the compatibility. Like if you have a motherboard that is made for DDR3, you cannot put DDR4 into, even though DDR4 is better. Likewise, if the game or program needs 4GB RAM, it is not appropriate to install 2GB RAM, it could lead to the system hangs and in various situations, it could harm your CPU or GPU.
What is the best RAM for gaming?
Now, this is the main question. Gaming overall is not a quite simple thing. It always confuses gamers in choosing the best machines for their requirements. There is always advancement in gaming technology over time, which forces gamers to modify their systems accordingly.
High definition and higher graphics games require more advanced CPUs and GPUs, but if you don’t value the RAM requirements it could be harmful to your CPU and GPU. Suppose, If you are a pro-level gamer and you play most advanced games like Far Cry 5, Assassins Creed: Odyssey type games or the games that have advanced features like facial recognition or voice recognition then it is recommended that you always choose the DDR4 of 32GB RAM.
On the contrary, if you are an entry-level gamer and you want to start from novice level, it is wiser to have only 8GB RAM as it also befits some good games requirements, otherwise, it will be just a waste of money.
Who makes the best RAM?
RAMs have been developed by many manufacturers in the past 40-50 years. Whereas, most of them fall. These days several brands make the best RAM, such as Corsair, G-Skill, OCZ, Kingston, etc.
Conclusion
The summary is as a gamer, first of all, you need to know about the RAM itself, its kinds and generations, and what is the best RAM speed and capacity. The second thing is the specifications, features, and compatibility of RAM with the system and its other components.
Once you get to know all of this it will be easier for you to choose the best RAM for gaming. All you need to do is check before buying RAM, whether it is the right one or the wrong one. And make sure you only buy from a reliable and trusted seller like Amazon, as they ensure the replacement of items purchased in case of damaging during shipment and provide a valid warranty. This precaution can make your purchase safe.
At last, if we have missed something or you have any additional information to provide or any queries please reach us at the comment box below and happy gaming.
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