The 10 Most Powerful Ram Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
G.Skill Trident Z RGB Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) 288-Pin SDRAM
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Crucial RAM 32GB Kit (2x16GB) DDR4 3200MHz CL22

Crucial RAM 32GB Kit CL22 offers improved responsiveness and multitasking performance to help your system run faster and more securely. With the latest technologies, you can now downclock to 2933MHz or 2666MHz to match your system for better compatibility. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: G.Skill Trident Z RGB Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) 288-Pin SDRAM

G.Skill's Trident Z RGB Series is built with quality materials and designed for enthusiasts seeking the ultimate in performance. These memory modules are compatible with AMD Ryzen Series, Intel Z170 and newer. The XMP 2.0 profile ensures compatibility with your motherboards and improves memory stability, overclocking potential and power efficiency even further. Read Review

3. Best Portable: TEAMGROUP T-Force Delta RGB DDR5 Ram 32GB Kit (2x16GB)

The TEAMGROUP T-Force Delta is loaded with RGB colors and 120° ultra-wide lighting and supports various lighting effect software. It also has Power management ICs (PMICs) equipped for stable, efficient power usage, and strengthened PMIC cooling design. With an on-die ECC, the RAM is stable in your system. Read Review

4. Best Performance: PNY XLR8 Gaming 32GB (2x16GB) DDR4 DRAM 3600MHz (PC4-28800)

PNY XLR8 Gaming 32GB offers exceptional performance with a frequency speed of 3600MHz. This DDR4 DRAM is backward compatible with lower frequencies and provides a huge boost in performance over the previous generation. With its industry-leading speeds, PNY offers superior performance that makes your PC run faster and more efficiently. Read Review

The RAM is the most important part of a computer. It stores the data and programs, which run on your PC. Your RAM holds the data until you need it; after that, it’s stored in your hard drive. The more RAM you have, the better your PC will be. The question is, however, which type of Ram should you buy? To answer that we need to understand what RAM is and what different RAM specifications mean.

There are several types of RAM but they all work in the same way: They temporarily store information so that it can be used by the CPU (Central Processing Unit). A fast and effective RAM will help your system run faster. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what are the best RAMs for your ram PC based on various factors such as pricing, brand, reliability, and performance.

After nearly 15 hours of research, we were able to come up with many top products from prominent brands like Crucial, G.skill, Teamgroup, Pny, Timetec, Mushkin, Oloy, Lexar, Hp. Among them, Crucial RAM 32GB Kit (2x16GB) DDR4 3200MHz CL22 seems to be the first product you can rely on. Alternatively, if you're simply looking for a good-looking option, you may go with G.Skill Trident Z RGB Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) 288-Pin SDRAM.

Our article today focuses mainly on giving you guidelines and tips to be able to buy the right product that best suits your needs. Explore with us right here.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Crucial RAM 32GB Kit (2x16GB) DDR4 3200MHz CL22
Our Score:
9.9
Crucial
  • Improve your system's responsiveness, run apps faster and multitask with ease
  • 3200MHz RAM can downclock to 2933MHz or 2666MHz if system specification only supports 2933MHz or 2666MHz
  • ECC Type = Non-ECC, Form Factor = SODIMM, Pin Count = 260-pin, PC Speed = PC4-25600, Voltage = 1.2V, Rank and Configuration = 1Rx8 or 2Rx8
  • Micron quality and reliability is backed by superior component and module level testing and 42 years of memory expertise
  • Compatibility assurance when using the Crucial System Scanner or Crucial Advisor Tool
TOP Choice #2 G.Skill Trident Z RGB Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) 288-Pin SDRAM
Our Score:
9.7
G.Skill
  • Trident Z RGB Series, compatible for AMD Ryzen Series; Intel Z170 and newer.
  • ECC: No, Dual Channel Kit, Recommended Use: High Performance or Gaming Memory
  • Check G.Skill QVL or RAM Configurator on the G.Skill website for validated motherboards
  • Rated XMP frequency & stability depends on MB & CPU capability
  • Brand: G.Skill, Series: Trident Z RGB, Model: F4-3200C16D-16GTZR
  • XMP 2.0 profile support to reach up to the rated overclock speed, or run at default JEDEC profile speed
  • 16GB kit containing 2 x 8GB modules, DDR4-3200, 288-Pin, CAS Latency CL16 (16-18-18-38) at 1.35V
TOP Choice #3 TEAMGROUP T-Force Delta RGB DDR5 Ram 32GB Kit (2x16GB)
Our Score:
9.6
TEAMGROUP
  • RGB colors & 120° ultra-wide lighting and supports various lighting effect software
  • Power management ICs (PMICs) equipped for stable, efficient power usage, and strengthened PMIC cooling design
  • On-die ECC for stable systems
  • DDR5 - Leading the way into a new OC generation, compatible with Intel 600 Series Chipset
  • Supports Intel XMP3.0 for one-click overclocking
  • Exceptional performance with a frequency speed of 3600MHz (PC4-28800), and backwards compatible with lower frequencies​
  • Experience the benefits of a PC Memory Upgrade with the ability to run more demanding applications simultaneously, and at faster speeds, for a better, smoother, computing experience
  • Intel XMP 2.0 Support​
  • Extreme performance DDR4 Desktop Memory designed for PC enthusiasts and gamers​
  • CAS Latency of 18, 1.35 Volts​
  • For Selected DDR4 Laptop / Notebook PC, Mini PC, All in one Device
  • DDR4 3200MHz PC4-25600 260 Pin Unbuffered Non-ECC 1.2V CL22 Timing 22-22-22-52 Dual Rank 2Rx8 based 2048x8 Designed for Gaming and High-Performance
  • Power Supply: VDD=1.2V (1.14V to 1.26V) VDDQ = 1.2V (1.14V to 1.26V)
  • Guaranteed Lifetime warranty from Purchase Date and Free technical support based on United States
  • Module Size:32GB Package: 1x32GB For Laptop, Not For Desktop
  • Compatible w/ All DDR4-3200 Laptops
  • Ideal for High-Performance DDR4 Laptop Notebooks
  • 260-pin / Low-Voltage 1.2V / Timings: 22-22-22-52
  • Guaranteed – Lifetime Warranty and Free Technical Support
  • 64GB (2x32GB) SODIMM DDR4 3200 (PC4-25600) Laptop / Notebook Memory Kit
  • CAS Latency of 19, 1.2 Volts
  • Exceptional performance with a frequency speed of 2666MHz (PC4-21300), and backwards compatible with lower frequencies (2400MHz and 2133MHz)
  • High performance DDR4 Desktop Memory designed for PC enthusiasts and gamers
  • Experience the benefits of a PC Memory Upgrade with the ability to run more demanding applications simultaneously, and at faster speeds, for a better, smoother, computing experience
  • Game at higher frame rates, run demanding software, and power through heavy workloads
  • Unlock the potential of your 12th Gen Intel Core laptop processors
  • ECC type = non-ECC, form factor = SODIMM, pin count = 262-pin, PC speed = PC5-38400, voltage = 1.1V, rank and configuration = 2Rx8
  • Compatible only with DDR5-enabled laptop, not DDR4-enabled laptops
  • Harness blazing speeds and massive memory bandwidth
  • Compatible with Intel
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • 1.2V SODIMM
  • Frequency : 2666 MHz CL19-19-19-43
  • DDR4 1x16GB SODIMM, total 16 GB
  • Lifetime limited product support
  • Experience next-generation DDR5 performance at 5200, more than 1.63x faster than DDR4
  • Premium heat spreader design combining bold style and cooling functionality
  • Supports Intel XMP 3.0 and overclocks your DDR5 memory
  • Built-in PMIC to enhance power efficiency
  • Designed with on-die ECC for improved stability of overclocking
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a most powerful ram?

A range of elements, including those listed below, influence the most powerful ram. The study process varies depending on the material. We'll be able to assist you and provide solutions since we're here to help you.

Please keep in mind the following points before selecting most powerful ram:

Height

This is a guide to the different RAM sticks on the market, noting their height and any special considerations for small form-factor PCs. Most computers don't need to be concerned about the height of their RAM, but if you're working on a small form-factor PC, then you may need to double check the height profile of your RAM, as it can potentially be the tallest piece of your tiny build.

DDR And Frequency

Frequency is one of the most significant factors of RAM. It is measured in MHz and typically follows by the DDR generation in the RAM spec. The frequency of RAM determines the communication speed with the motherboard, which reflects on the performance. Different DDR generations of memory support different ranges of transfer rates. The selection of DDR generation depends on the motherboard. However, one thing to keep in mind is that you shouldn’t choose a RAM with a frequency that is higher than the motherboard supports.

Channel

Most CPUs can support two or four memory channels, and their compatible motherboards tend to accommodate that with their available RAM slots. To use multiple channels, you'll need more than one RAM stick. If you have an incredible CPU and outstanding RAM, it's typically better to use a Dual Channel 16GB RAM kit, which is two 8GB RAM sticks with matching performance, as opposed to a single stick of 16GB RAM. Though, the downside here is that if you only have two RAM slots, then upgrading your RAM capacity would mean replacing the RAM entirely.

Speed

This is the complex aspect of RAM that gets computers running quickly. There are two main factors behind what makes RAM considered fast: frequency and timing.

Latency

Do not confuse RAM frequency with RAM latency. The RAM frequency indicates the speed by which RAM can send and receive the data. But, RAM latency is the speed taken by RAM to fetch the data in it. So, lower RAM latency means faster speed. The RAM latency of the RAM is measured in Nano-seconds and indicated as CL (Cass Latency) on RAM Sticks and Specifications. For example, CL 9, CL 15, CL 16, etc.

Capacity

It depends on what your computer is used for. Typically, 16GB of RAM is a good choice for the mainstream computer at present. For less budget, 8GB of RAM is also a pretty good choice. If you are intended to build a basic computer for general use like browsing the web, doing word processing, and watching videos, it is recommended to choose 4GB of RAM. If you are building a high-end computer for gaming, video editing, and graphics design, you may need 16GB or more of RAM to run your computer smoothly.

Compatibility

When choosing computer memory, you must check the compatibility between RAM and motherboard. The motherboard has limitations on many key factors of memory such as DDR generations, maximum capacity, and frequency. Namely, you can’t use a newer generation DDR memory in the motherboard that supports the older DDR generation and vice versa. You should also not choose a RAM whose capacity is larger than the maximum capacity that the motherboard supports. So, you should also note how many slots your motherboard has.

FAQs

What Speed Should RAM Be To Run A Gaming Computer?

We recommend that you use two DDR4 modules to build a dual channel system. Each module should have a clock speed of at least 3,000 MHz. This will ensure that you get the most from the top CPUs available for gaming. You can settle for the best Intel kit, but AMD Ryzen customers will need to dig deeper.

Do I Need RGB LEDs On My Memory DIMMs?

No. No. However, RGB can help your computer look cooler. We all know that computers need to be cool.

What Is Refresh Rate And Self-refreshment?

An electrical cell is the basic component of a memory module. These cells are recharged by the refresh process. They are placed on chips in rows. Refresh cycle is the amount of rows to be renewed. Common refresh cycles include 2K, 4K and 8K. The Refresh rate is the combination of refresh cycle and refresh period. The refresh rate is 4K
Refresh parts require more frequent replacement than the 2K ones. The 4K refresh component consumes less power for the same DRAM size than the 2K parts. Special DRAMs with self-refresh technology allow the parts to recharge on their own, without the need for external refresh circuits or CPUs. It is often used in notebook computers because it reduces power consumption.

Can More Memory Increase The Speed Of My Computer?

Although more memory won't increase CPU speed, it can reduce time spent waiting to receive data from the hard drive. You won't have to wait for programs to run because RAM delivers data faster than hard drives.

Are You Able To Mix And Match ECC Modules And Non-parity Ones?

No. No. Simply count the black chips in each module to determine whether your system is parity. Chip counts for ECC and parity memory modules are divisible by either three or five. A non-parity module is one whose chip count cannot be divided by 3 or 5.

How Do I Know When I Have Enough Memory?

The software you use, the operating system and how many programs you have open will all play a part in determining the amount of memory that you require. You should also consider six-monthly future memory requirements when determining your memory needs. It's important to consider whether you will be adding software or upgrading your operating system.

What Is The Difference In 72-bit, 64-bit, 32-bit, And 36 Bit Memory?

ECC memory, which is 72-bits of memory, is more commonly called. You can also use the additional 8 bits to correct errors. 64-bit memory is not ECC. 64-bit or 72-bit
Configuration is most commonly found in 168-pin DIMMs
Parity memory, which is 36-bits of memory, is a common name. You can also use 4 additional bits to check parity. Non-parity 32-bit memory. Commonly, 32-bit and 36-bit configurations can be found in either 72pins or 30pins SIMMs

When updated data are available, our system and editor will update a list of most powerful ram. Please periodically review our website for the newest data.

We can help you with more than just finding most powerful ram.  Please do not hesitate to contact us when you need assistance.


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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.