This article has been just updated: January 17, 2024
Your computer has two types of memory at its disposal where it can store data: volatile memory and non-volatile memory. In this article, we focus on volatile memory, better known as RAM. What separates RAM from non-volatile memory, such as a hard disk drive or a solid-state drive, is that RAM requires power to maintain the stored information.
For this reason, RAM is used to store data and machine code currently being used. Let’s say you want to download and play a game. First, install the game on your HDD or SSD. When you launch it, parts of the game get loaded into RAM, where they remain instantly available until they are no longer needed.
Because a typical DDR4 RAM module has a data transfer rate of nearly 20 GB/s—the fastest NVM Express SSDs have a data transfer rate of “only” around 3 GB/s—you can enjoy much higher frame rates and smoother gameplay than you could otherwise.
But the benefits of fast volatile memory go far beyond gaming. Modern web browsers are notoriously hungry for RAM, and it’s common for Google Chrome or Firefox with just a few open tabs to take up several GB of RAM. That’s okay if you have enough of it, but bad things can happen if you don’t. At best, you’ll wait a long time for pages to load. At worst, the entire operating system will become unresponsive.
Fortunately, DDR4 RAM is very affordable in 2024, and you don’t even need to know much about it before you make a purchase. We’ve selected the top 7 best DDR4 RAM modules, which should be compatible with almost all modern motherboards and play well even with your current DDR4 RAM.
CPU | Data rate | Timings | Price(according to Amazon) |
---|---|---|---|
1.Corsair Vengeance LED | DDR4-3200 MHz | 16-18-18-36 | $189.99 for 2 x 8 GB |
2.ADATA Spectrix D80 | DDR4-3600 MHz | 19-19-19-43 | $174.99 for 2 x 8 GB |
3.Kingston HyperX Predator RGB | DDR4-2933 MHz | 15-17-17-39 | $174.99 for 2 x 8 GB |
4.Ballistix Tactical Tracer RGB | DDR4-2666 MHz | 16-18-18-36 | $139.99 for 2 x 8 GB |
5.G.Skill Trident Z RGB | DDR4-2400 MHz | 15-15-15-35 | $169.99 for 2 x 8 GB |
6.Patriot Viper Elite | DDR4-2400 MHz | 15-15-15-35 | $109.99 for 1 x 16 GB |
7.Corsair Dominator Platinum | DDR4-3333 MHz | 16-18-18-36 | $169.99 for 2 x 8 GB |
1. Corsair Vengeance LED
The Corsair Vengeance LED DDR4 RAM modules are perfect for overclocking enthusiasts who want their PC to perform at its very best. They feature understated LED lights that add to their already appealing design. Built-in heat spreaders keep the modules cool even in less than ideally ventilated cases, and Corsair is so sure about their reliability that the company offers a limited lifetime warranty on them.
Pros: Built-in LEDs. Beautiful and functional design. Supports XMP 2.0 for easy overclocking. Limited lifetime warranty.
Cons: Higher price.
2. ADATA Spectrix D80
The ADATA Spectrix D80 is unique memory with a hybrid liquid-air cooling system that keeps its temperatures low even during extreme overclocking. A special heatsink contains non-conductive fluid that transfers heat away from the sensitive memory modules and looks great while doing so thanks to built-in RGB lighting, which you can control using the XPG RGB Sync app. If you’d rather not install yet another software application on your computer, you can control the RGB lighting using an existing RGB light control software from a major motherboard maker.
Pros: Liquid cooling mechanism. RGB lighting. Great design.
Cons: Only average two-DIMM performance.
3. Kingston HyperX Predator
The Kingston HyperX Predator memory provides the performance your system needs to play the latest games and multitask without any limitations. Available in 4 GB – 16 GB single modules and a variety of kits, this XMP-ready memory is fully optimized for Intel’s latest chipsets and many recent AMD chipsets. The memory is back by a lifetime warranty, and Kingston is generally known for its friendly customer support.
Pros: Beautiful combination of matte black, black PCB, machined accents, and white lettering. On par with other kits in its class in terms of performance.
Cons: Lackluster overclocking.
4. Ballistix Tactical Tracer RGB
Some DDR4 RAM modules focus on performance alone, while others are all about style. The Ballistix Tactical Tracer RGB falls into the second category. While there are faster options available at the same price, you would be hard-pressed to find a memory kit that’s more customizable as far as RGB LEDs go. You can create select RGB LED patterns and adjust brightness, customize your rig’s color scheme with 16 RGB LEDs in 8 zones on each module, and even create your own custom light bar with your 3D printer and provided 3D files.
Pros: Optimized for H370/B360 motherboards. Its design matches a wide variety of builds. You can control the RGB lights with motherboard-based software applications.
Cons: There are faster options available at the same price.
5. G.Skill Trident Z RGB
The G.Skill Trident Z RGB doesn’t know the meaning of the word compromise. It merges the award-winning Trident Z heatspreader design with premium memory chips to deliver uncompromised performance with excellent overclocking potential. Downloadable software lets you play with the memory’s built-in RGB lighting system, which makes it stand out in every case.
Pros: Comes with a lifetime warranty. ASUS Aura Sync support. Excellent overclocking potential.
Cons: Expensive.
6. Patriot Viper Elite
Patriot’s Viper Elite memory modules are designed with the needs of hardcore gamers in mind, and they deliver true performance and stability for even the most demanding computer environments. Their custom-designed heat shield ensures maximum reliability and increases the lifespan of the sensitive memory modules hidden underneath it. Each and every Patriot Viper Elite module is hand-tested and validated for system compatibility, so luck won’t affect your system’s performance.
Pros: Improved performance at a great price. Latency optimization and overclocking potential. Tight frequency-to-latency ratio.
Cons: Its height may interfere with oversized CPU coolers.
7. Corsair Dominator Platinum
To dominate your opponents, you need the right equipment. As far as high-performance DD4 memory goes, the Corsair Dominator Platinum is up there with other elite memory modules. It features Corsair’s patented DHX cooling for reliable performance in demanding environments and has built-in XMP 2.0 support for trouble-free, automatic overclocking.
Pros: Overclocking capability. Futuristic cooler design. Aggressive performance for agrresive gamers.
Cons: Its price is on the higher side.
Conclusion
If all DDR4 RAM modules seem too similar to you for you to know which one to buy, that’s okay. The most important thing is to have enough RAM—what make and model you choose doesn’t matter all that much at the end of the day. All DDR4 RAM modules listed in this article have received raving reviews from professional tech reviewers and enthusiastic users alike, so you can be certain that no matter how you choose, you won’t regret your decision.
FAQ
What factors were considered when selecting the top 7 best DDR4 RAM in 2024?
In selecting the top 7 best DDR4 RAM for 2024, factors such as memory speed, latency, compatibility with different motherboards, heat spreader design, brand reliability, consumer reviews, and price-to-performance ratio were taken into account.
Which DDR4 RAM was recommended for gamers in 2024?
The Corsair Vengeance LPX was highly recommended for gamers in 2024 due to its excellent performance, high speeds, and the presence of a solid heat spreader for better thermal management during intense gaming sessions.
Were there any DDR4 RAM options particularly suited for overclockers in 2024?
Yes, the G.Skill TridentZ series was a favorite among overclockers for its high-speed capabilities, tight timings, and robust build quality that allowed for better stability during overclocking.
What made the Crucial Ballistix Sport LT series a good choice for general users in 2024?
The Crucial Ballistix Sport LT series was known for its balanced performance, reasonable pricing, and easy compatibility with a wide range of systems, making it an excellent choice for general users seeking reliable RAM.
Did any DDR4 RAM stand out in 2024 for its unique aesthetics?
The Corsair Dominator Platinum stood out with its distinctive LED lighting and premium design, which not only provided great performance but also enhanced the visual appeal of custom PC builds.
What DDR4 RAM was considered the best for high-performance computing in 2024?
For high-performance computing, the G.Skill Ripjaws V was highly regarded due to its high speeds and ability to handle demanding tasks and software with ease.
Which DDR4 RAM was known for offering the best value for money in 2024?
The HyperX Fury series was widely appreciated for offering great performance at a more affordable price point, making it an excellent value for money option.
What DDR4 RAM would you suggest for someone prioritizing energy efficiency in 2024?
For those prioritizing energy efficiency, the Kingston Technology HyperX Predator was a good choice due to its lower power consumption without compromising on performance.
Can you recommend a DDR4 RAM that was compatible with a wide range of systems in 2024?
The Crucial Ballistix Sport was reputed for its broad compatibility with various Intel and AMD systems, making it a versatile choice for many builds.
Was there any DDR4 RAM particularly optimized for the Intel platform in 2024?
Yes, the Corsair Vengeance LPX series was optimized for the Intel platforms, offering compatibility and performance enhancements when used with Intel processors and motherboards.
What DDR4 RAM featured the best heatsink design in 2024?
The ThermalTake ToughRam RGB, with its striking RGB lighting and efficient heat dissipation design, was considered one of the top DDR4 RAM modules for its heatsink design in 2024.
Did any DDR4 RAM offer RGB lighting customization in 2024?
The Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB offered extensive RGB lighting customization options, allowing users to personalize the aesthetic of their memory modules.
What DDR4 RAM was known for its durability and build quality in 2024?
The G.Skill TridentZ series was known for its excellent build quality and durability, as well as its performance, making it a durable choice for consumers.
Were there any DDR4 RAM kits specifically tailored for compact systems in 2024?
The Corsair Vengeance LPX was designed with a low-profile form factor, making it suitable for compact systems or smaller PC cases with limited space.
What was the typical warranty offered with the best DDR4 RAM in 2024?
Most top DDR4 RAM kits, such as those from Corsair and G.Skill, were accompanied by a limited lifetime warranty, reflecting their manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s reliability and longevity.
How did LED and RGB lighting features in DDR4 RAM impact its popularity in 2024?
DDR4 RAM with LED or RGB lighting, like the HyperX Predator DDR4 RGB, became extremely popular among enthusiasts and gamers for its aesthetic appeal and the ability to sync with other RGB components in a PC build.
Was there any budget-friendly DDR4 RAM that still offered good performance in 2024?
The ADATA XPG Z1 was praised as a budget-friendly DDR4 RAM that still delivered solid performance for users looking to build or upgrade their PC without breaking the bank.
How significant was memory speed and latency for the top DDR4 RAM in 2024?
Memory speed and latency were critical factors for performance, with higher speeds and lower latencies generally leading to better overall system responsiveness and performance in the top DDR4 RAM modules like Corsair Dominator Platinum and G.Skill Ripjaws V.
Were there any DDR4 RAM options that supported Intel XMP 2.0 for easier overclocking in 2024?
Yes, many high-end DDR4 RAM options, including the Corsair Vengeance LPX and G.Skill TridentZ, supported Intel XMP 2.0 to facilitate easier overclocking and optimal performance profiles.