The best RAM kits available in the DDR4 and DDR5 categories.

**If you're looking for the best RAM suitable for installation in a gaming computer, you've come to the right place. This guide lists the best RAM kits available in the DDR4 and DDR5 categories that you can install in your PC version. Therefore, whether you own the latest AMD Ryzen 8000G series or the 14th generation Intel Raptor Lake Refresh processor, the memory kits listed below will be a great fit for your build.**

Before that, it's important to understand things to keep in mind when purchasing RAM:

**Before purchasing, ensure that the RAM is compatible with your motherboard. Do this by checking the QVL list provided on the motherboard supplier's website.**

**Check if the RAM you plan to buy is certified by AMD EXPO or Intel XMP. Choosing the right RAM for your CPU platform ensures optimal stability.**

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When it comes to RAM speed, **6000MHz CL30 is the best choice for DDR5 RAM, and 3200MHz/3600MHz CL16 to CL18 is the ideal choice for DDR4 RAM.**

When talking about capacity, **16GB of RAM is recommended for optimal performance. 32GB of RAM is more than enough for today's gaming, and those with very large workloads and RAM-consuming tasks can benefit from more memory.**

Ensure that you get dual-channel RAM for better performance. **Note that a single DDR5 memory module is already dual-channel, so you can use just one memory module without losing too much performance.**After purchasing the kit, please follow our guide on how to install RAM on the motherboard to ensure proper installation or upgrade.

Once completed, enable Intel XMP/AMD EXPO according to this guide so you can run the RAM at the advertised speeds.

G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB 6000MHz DDR5

For Intel CPU users looking to get one of the fastest DDR5 kits at an affordable price, the G.Skill Trident Z5 is a reliable choice. This RAM kit comes in 32GB and 64GB capacities, with silver and black color options available. Both RGB and non-RGB variants are available, so you can choose according to your PC's color theme. The memory kit is Intel-XMP certified, so you can easily use it with Intel CPU versions.

The RAM operates at a voltage of 1.35V and a speed of 6000MHz. This speed is quite fast, providing excellent performance for gaming. The timings of CL30-40-40-96 are also tight. Compared to many other 6000MHz kits with higher CL32 or CL36 latencies, this kit is overall better. By using highly binned Hynix ICs, G.Skill offers relatively good RAM, perfect for your Intel PC build. If you have a budget constraint, you can also opt for the slower 5200MHz or 5600MHz models, which are slightly cheaper.

Patriot Viper Xtreme 5 8000MHz DDR5

The Patriot Viper Xtreme 5 RAM is one of the best memories that enthusiasts like to use for their high-end builds. They offer high RAM speeds and perform well when downclocked at very tight clocks, which enthusiasts enjoy tweaking for a slight performance advantage. The design here is quite striking, with the iconic Viper head RGB light bar on top, creating an aggressive gamer aesthetic. The RAM operates at a CL38 timing at 1.45V. It supports speeds of 7600, 7800, and 8000MHz. On the 7600MHz profile, it runs with a slightly stricter CL36 timing.The voltage here is 1.45V. This RAM requires a reliable motherboard that can overclock the CPU's memory controller without any issues. If you are looking for the fastest DDR5 RAM for your Intel system, this is your best choice. To run this RAM at 8000MHz on AMD, you will need to manually adjust the RAM using compatible timings, a process that requires a significant amount of time and stability testing.

While some AMD motherboards may utilize XMP profiles, running 8000MHz RAM on AM5 systems is not common. We have seen BIOS updates support higher speeds, but as we said, your mileage may vary.

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G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo RGB 6000MHz DDR5

The G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo is an extremely fast DDR5 RAM. Although it is more expensive compared to other 5200MHz kits, you will get the best gaming performance through this RAM. As a 6000MHz kit, it is the top choice for DDR5 memory and is our recommended choice for AMD systems because it has AMD Expo certification for RAM overclocking.

This RAM supports CL30-38-38-96 timings, which are very tight and will provide you with very low latency. The CL30 timings are key here, making this RAM one of the fastest 6000MHz kits available. The RAM comes in both RGB and non-RGB options, as well as metallic silver and matte black versions. You can purchase a product that perfectly matches the appearance of your computer. G.Skill uses SK Hynix M-Die in this memory, allowing enthusiasts to manually tweak as needed.

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Teamgroup T-Force Vulcan Alpha 6000MHz DDR5

The Teamgroup T-Force Vulcan Alpha is another excellent option for DDR5 RAM. With a speed of 6000MHz, it offers a great balance between performance and cost. It is designed to provide high-speed memory for gaming and productivity tasks, ensuring smooth and efficient operation. The RAM is built with high-quality components to ensure reliability and durability. It also features a sleek design that complements modern PC builds. Teamgroup's T-Force Vulcan Alpha is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and high-performing DDR5 RAM kit.TeamGroup T-Force Vulcan Alpha is a cost-effective DDR5 RAM suitable for AMD CPUs. With a price per GB lower than other options on this list, the combination of 32GB capacity and 6000MHz speed sets this RAM apart from other options in this price range, which typically have 5600MHz speeds. Although this specific RAM does not have the tighter CL30 timings like some other options, its CL38-38-38-78 timings running at 1.25V are still quite fast.

Compared to other options at 6000MHz, this DDR5 RAM will still offer a performance advantage in gaming. It is available in red and black, and there is a non-Alpha variant suitable for Intel systems. The product comes out of the box ready for AMD AM5 motherboards, saving you some money while providing ample performance for your gaming needs.

It features a stable power supply PMIC, high-quality ICs, and an aluminum heatsink. The design is stylish and minimalist, with T-Force branding on the front and top.

Crucial DDR5 5200MHz

Looking for the most affordable DDR5 for a budget gaming PC? This is it. The 5200MHz speed is quite capable for mid-range gaming PCs. The description also mentions support for both AMD and Intel systems, with XMP profiles for Intel and EXPO profiles for AMD available. For just $25, you can get up and running with a mid-range AMD Ryzen 7000 or Intel 12th/13th gen system and upgrade the RAM as needed in the future.

You might think of this as a basic DDR5 option, and indeed it is. It lacks a heatsink, so be sure to add fans to your computer case to keep it as cool as possible. However, even when compared to faster options, you won't find a significant performance difference with this RAM.

The Intel XMP and AMD EXPO profile timings are both CL 42-42-42, which does not make it stand out as a low-latency RAM kit. It features a black PCB that fully showcases the DDR5 RAM module and has a small blue Crucial branding logo.Trident Z Neo RGB 3600MHz DDR4

The G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo is one of the best DDR4 memory options to purchase for your Intel and AMD gaming computers. Notably, this model runs at high speeds while maintaining a CL16 latency. The G.Skill RAM also boasts high reliability, which is an added advantage.

In addition to its sleek aesthetic appeal, the light bar that wraps around the top edge gives it a beautiful look, especially when housed in a transparent PC case. It is out-of-the-box compatible with most motherboards and is a commonly listed option on many QVL manufacturer lists. It offers a 32GB capacity in a dual-channel configuration and also provides 16GB and 64GB capacities with different timings.

The model we recommend is slightly more expensive, but it operates at a voltage of 1.35V and has a timing of CL16-19-19-39, which is very ideal for 3600 MHz RAM. These specifications meet the optimal latency for the best gaming performance. A timing of CL16-18-18-36 is common on 3200MHz kits, but this is a 3600MHz kit that still uses the CL16 timing instead of CL18. It should be noted that the timing here is CL16-19-19-39 and is not as strict as some 3200MHz kits.

PNY XLR8 Gaming RGB 4600MHz DDR4

The PNY XLR8 Gaming RGB RAM is an extremely fast DDR5 kit. It is well beyond the sweet spot required for gaming, but if you still want to chase every bit of performance and are looking for one of the fastest DDR5 RAM options at a reasonable price, this is it. DDR4 RAM at speeds of 4800 MHz and 5133 MHz already exists, but the price increase is significant.

Priced under $75, this is a very worthwhile RAM kit to purchase at the moment. It is available in black and white with a clear RGB light bar on top. The XLR8 branding looks neat, and this RAM will be an appealing sight in your gaming PC.Please remember that this RAM operates at a speed of 4200MHz. Running DDR4 RAM at such a high speed depends on the capabilities of the motherboard. Therefore, check the experiences of other users with the same motherboard to understand if it can handle the 4200MHz speed to stably overclock the memory controller (the CPU is also important). This option is best suited for users who wish to extract as much performance as possible to build a high-end system based on DDR4.

Otherwise, for the average gamer, the 3600MHz or 3200MHz DDR4 options in this list are more than sufficient. They will also provide better compatibility between mid-range Intel and AMD systems.

Silicone Power XPower Turbo 3200MHz DDR4

Silicone Power is a manufacturer from Taiwan, China, that has been producing storage solutions and DRAM for over a decade. Their products are typically affordably priced, especially considering the performance. This RAM offers a 3200MHz speed and a dual-channel 16GB capacity. It features a unique bright blue aesthetic, which may not suit every build, but it certainly looks cool.

The latency is CL16, so it definitely meets the appropriate timing tightness suitable for its 3200MHz speed. This is a great value RAM, especially if you are looking for the 3200MHz speed. The model listed below is the 16GB (8GB x2) version, but the 32GB (16GB x2) version sometimes offers an even lower price per GB. Nonetheless, for mid-range gaming systems that require fast RAM, this product hits the sweet spot in terms of both speed and capacity.

G.Skill Ripjaws V Series 3600MHz DDR4This is G.Skill's Ripjaws V memory kit, which has been a popular choice for many people's DDR4 systems since the release of the Ryzen 3000 processors and Z390 motherboards. Priced at $40, it makes for an excellent option, especially if you have a preference for the G.Skill brand. The neutral black color scheme with the "Ripjaws V" branding should pair perfectly with any color scheme of your PC.

This RAM supports a speed of 3600MHz, so out of the box (with XMP enabled in the BIOS), you will get satisfactory gaming performance. Although it sits at CL18-22-22-42, it is still a sufficiently low latency for 3600MHz. You can also attempt manual tweaking here, but that depends on other components, such as the motherboard and CPU. Nevertheless, it still has good overclocking potential.

**Essential 2400MHz DDR4**

Crucial 2400MHz is a DDR4 memory kit that you can purchase from a reliable brand suitable for your budget system. At the 2400MHz speed, there's nothing particularly special about it, and it's certainly not the fastest DDR4 RAM. This is a basic DDR4 RAM kit that I would only recommend for budget computers equipped with the highest 11th generation Intel CPU. It also has a basic look with a green PCB and no heatsink, so you should equip your PC case with a cooling fan to ensure the RAM maintains stable temperatures during high-load periods.

Nevertheless, at 2400MHz, it is still significantly higher than the basic DDR4 specification of 1600MHz. Therefore, it is a suitable choice for budget gaming systems with older Intel processors. It also offers a capacity of 16GB, so you can benefit from dual-channel support.

If you have a 12th or 13th generation Intel processor, I would recommend using a RAM kit with a speed of at least 3000MHz. I could not find this RAM model in the approved memory QVL lists for some AMD B450/B550 motherboards, so do not purchase it for AMD AM4 systems, as you may encounter stability issues.