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RAM (Random Access Memory) is one of the most straightforward upgrades you can make to improve the performance of an existing computer. If your desktop or laptop is having trouble multitasking or just doesn’t seem as snappy as it once did, increasing the RAM is usually a cheap and simple fix.
But how do you know which RAM to get? While it’s understandable to try to get the most memory for your money, there are other factors to consider. Is your motherboard compatible with DDR4 RAM? Is standard-sized RAM sufficient, or do you require low-profile or laptop-friendly RAM? Are RGB lighting elements important to you, or are you willing to sacrifice style for cost savings?
Don’t try to plug and play without doing some research first if you don’t already know the ins and outs of RAM upgrades.
Fortunately, we have a plethora of worthwhile RAM options to choose from, so keep reading for our recommendations for the best RAM.
RAM is frequently the key to improving your system’s performance, whether it’s to increase your multitasking abilities or to enable higher-end games. Corsair is hard to beat when it comes to high-quality RAM kits. The Vengeance RGB Pro DDR4 SDRAM (Check latest price on Amazon) is especially good value for money. Although other capacities and configurations are available, this 16GB set has two 8GB modules and a 3200MHz speed, making it ideal for most users. It also has a low CAS latency (CL) of 16, making it ideal for most users. You can also overclock this RAM to make it run even faster, while an aluminum heat spreader keeps it cool.
Performance and price should be your primary considerations, but the Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro, like so many other PC components these days, will also put on a show. This RAM comes in two colors: black and white, and both have RGB lighting that dazzles with multi-zone colors and animation patterns. The effects will even be synchronized across multiple compatible components thanks to Corsair’s iCue software.
If you’re running a truly high-end system that necessitates the best of the best components, you may want to invest in some seriously high-performing hardware. When it comes to RAM, the Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB (Check latest price on Amazon) should be considered. We’ve already established that Corsair is a strong brand in this space, and the Dominator Platinum RGB exceeds the Vengeance RGB Pro in terms of performance… if you’re willing to pay for it.
This advanced DDR4 RAM is available in kits of 8GB and 16GB modules, with top overclocking speeds of 4800MHz. Low latency and tighter timings are possible as a result, implying minimal delays in the memory’s response time to commands. It’s also a show-stopper, with 12 of Corsair’s eye-popping Capellix LED lights strewn across the top, each of which can be customized individually using the iCue lighting software. You can even get individual module speed and temperature readings in real time.
The G.Skill Trident Z RGB (Check latest price on Amazon) has the flash to match your ambitions if style is just as important as performance when it comes to your gaming PC. By default, the exposed light bar along the top displays a full spectrum rainbow wave, but you can customize this RAM to show any color combination or animation effect you want. You’re also not restricted to G.Skill’s software; third-party options such as Asus Aura can be used if you have other RGB-equipped Asus hardware to synchronize with.
The bright LED color show contrasts nicely with the dark, brushed aluminum heat spreader, which features a fin design that improves heat transfer and allows the RAM to run at high speeds without overheating. Even with such performance-oriented design elements, the dazzling appearance isn’t compromised in the least. What a seamless combination of style and substance.
The Corsair Vengeance LPX (Check latest price on Amazon) is a popular DDR4 RAM option because of its overclocking capabilities, which allow power users to get the most out of their hardware. Its popularity stems in part from its smaller size. Because some CPU coolers won’t fit in your rig if you have standard-sized RAM modules underneath, low-profile options like this help to reduce the bulk and make room for a cooler.
The effective aluminum heat spreaders, which are available in red, blue, black, or white, keep these RAM modules cool. And, despite the fact that these Corsair Vengeance LPX RAM modules have a low-profile design, they’re still reasonably priced. That’s important if you want to upgrade your RAM but don’t have a lot of DIMM slots on your motherboard.
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Runner-Up, Best Budget: Patriot Viper Elite
Don’t be put off by the price: the Patriot Viper Elite DDR4 RAM (Check latest price on Amazon) has a proven track record of dependable hardware and plenty of speed. The best deals are on the smaller end of the scale, such as 8GB RAM, but even the higher-capacity Viper Elite memory kits are a good deal.
They’re capped at 2800MHz, but you can use Intel XMP profiles or other methods to overclock them to 3000MHz or higher. For many users, that will suffice, and it is on the higher end of the price range for this type of product. Furthermore, Patriot provides a limited lifetime warranty, so you won’t have to worry about low-quality components, especially given the low price.
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The Final Word
You can’t go wrong with Corsair’s Vengeance RGB Pro DDR4 SDRAM, which packs a punch for the money and features stunning RGB lighting. For most users, it’s the best overall RAM option, though serious power users may prefer the more expensive and capable Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB.
