We’ve heavily tested the Best DDR4 RAM For Gaming kits: perfect PC memory for graphically intensive apps, gaming, and video editing.
DDR5 is already steadily losing price, and the greatest DDR4 RAM for gaming doesn’t have to cost a fortune. One thing that has surprised us over the last several years of testing DDR4 kits is how affordable a 16GB or 32GB DDR4 kit is now compared to a few years ago.
Now is a great opportunity to get any DDR4 kit. 16GB is available for a reasonable price. Although most games won’t utilize more than 32GB, it’s considered excessive because 32GB might be a worthwhile purchase if you’re a major editor or deal with large files.
In terms of speed, current CPUs should use DDR4 RAM that operates at 3,600MHz or 3,200MHz. This should provide your CPU with sufficient bandwidth to manage both work and games. CAS latency is another crucial statistic to take into account. Lower is preferable when it comes to CAS latency. Keep an eye out for CL16/CL18 or higher.
Best DDR4 RAM For Gaming
CORSAIR Vengeance RGB RT 32GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
The Best Overall DDR4 RAM for Gaming PCs
G.SKILL Ripjaws V Series 32GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
The Best Alternate Overall DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs
Patriot signature premium 32GB DDR4 RAM 3200 MHZ
The Best Budget DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs
Silicon Power 16GB DDR4 RAM 3200 MHZ
Best Alternate budget DDR4 Memory For Gaming PCs
CORSAIR Dominator Platinum RGB 128GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
The Best Premium DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs
- Best DDR4 RAM For Gaming
- Selecting DDR4 RAM That Is Ideal For Gaming
- Best DDR4 RAM For Gaming In 2024
- The Best Overall DDR4 RAM for Gaming PCs
- CORSAIR Vengeance RGB RT 32GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
- The Best Alternate Overall DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs
- G.SKILL Ripjaws V Series 32GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
- The Best Budget DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs
- Patriot signature premium 32GB DDR4 RAM 3200 MHZ
- Best Alternate Budget DDR4 Memory For Gaming PCs
- Silicon Power 16GB DDR4 RAM 3200 MHZ
- The Best Premium DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs
- CORSAIR Dominator Platinum RGB 128GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
- Top 5 Best DDR5 RAM for Gaming You Should Buy in 2024
- Conclusion | Best DDR4 RAM for Gaming
- Best DDR4 RAM for Gaming | FAQs
Selecting DDR4 RAM That Is Ideal For Gaming
There are many different sizes, shapes, and specs available for DDR4 RAM; not all of them are suitable for gaming or working with all motherboards. To get the most out of a RAM update, it’s crucial to pay attention to the following parameters for DDR4 memory to be a decent upgrade:
1- Memory Size: Although DDR4 memory modules are available in a range of sizes, it is generally recommended to have a minimum of 16 GB of RAM installed for a new PC build to guarantee compatibility with the majority of today’s games.
2- Clock Speeds: RAM clock rates are basically the rate at which information can be retrieved from a module; generally speaking, the greater, the better.
3- Memory Latency: With a lower CAS latency (the unit of measurement) indicating a higher-end alternative to most RAM modules, memory latency is simply a measure of how quickly a memory module can reply to a request for data.
4- Price: A CPU or GPU upgrade offers a higher return on investment for gamers than RAM modules, which is why it is usually not a smart idea to spend more than a specific amount on RAM modules.
Best DDR4 RAM For Gaming In 2024
The Best Overall DDR4 RAM for Gaming PCs
CORSAIR Vengeance RGB RT 32GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
Two DDR4 memory modules, the CORSAIR Vengeance RGB RT 32GB 3600MHz (CL16) are made especially for AMD’s Ryzen 5000 series CPUs. It offers incredibly low latency RAM modules at a price point that is far better than most of its competitors and benefits from higher-clocked memory.
| Brand | Corsair |
| Size | 32GB (16G x 2) |
| Technology | DDR4 |
| Speed | 3600Mhz |
| Compatible Devices | All DDR4 Intel and AMD-based Motherboards |
| RGB | Yes, ARGB Lighting |
| Latency | CL16 |
Pros
- ICUE offers fully customized ARGB effects.
- Provides a lower latency than the majority of similar RAMs.
- The ideal frequency range for AMD processors is 3600 MHz.
Cons
- A little bit more expensive than average DDR4 memory
In comparison to other widely used DDR4 memory, the CORSAIR Vengeance RGB RT 32GB 3600MHz is a great AMD-focused RAM kit with superior rates and latencies. Because AMD Ryzen-based CPUs frequently show notable performance increases at higher memory clock rates and tighter timings, this makes the memory kit appealing.
The Vengeance RGB RT RAMs are a great, value-added option in 2024 at just under $100 for a pair of RAM modules that should let gamers play games soon. They also have tighter timings than their competitors, which allows it to be overclocked on demand.
The Best Alternate Overall DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs
G.SKILL Ripjaws V Series 32GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
Two great, reasonably priced RAM modules, the G.Skill Ripjaws V Series DDR4 3600MHz 32GB CL16, have high 3600MHz frequencies that enable them to outperform most of their competitors with reduced latencies on both AMD and Intel systems.
| Brand | G.Skill |
| Size | 32GB (16G x 2) |
| Technology | DDR4 |
| Speed | 3600Mhz |
| Compatible Devices | All Intel and AMD DDR4 Compatible Motherboards |
| RGB | No |
| Latency | CL16 |
Pros
- Provides a reasonable CL16 latency at clock speeds of 3600MHz.
- Compatible with RAM PCs from AMD and Intel.
- An excellent value for a premium 32GB memory kit.
Cons
- Eliminates all RGB lights altogether.
- The basic packaging that comes with the Ripjaws might need some improvement.
The G.Skill Ripjaws V Series DDR4 3600MHz 32GB RAM modules are great, memory modules that provide a lot of storage at a far lower cost than its direct competitors without sacrificing performance.
These are perfect to match AMD’s Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series CPUs, which are far more sensitive to RAM modules compared to Intel’s more expansive 3200MHz needs. AMD offers 3600MHz at a timing of 16-19-19-39 as part of its XMP profile. This indicates that the Ryzen 7 5800X3D and, if necessary, the Intel Core i9 13900K, are among the newest DDR4-capable CPUs from AMD and Intel that are compatible with the Ripjaws V kit.
The Best Budget DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs
Patriot signature premium 32GB DDR4 RAM 3200 MHZ
With a latency specification of CL22, the Patriot Signature Premium DDR4 32GB kit comes with two 16GB sticks operating at 3200 MHz.
It provides a reasonably priced variety of memory modules that are compatible with entry-level to mid-range PCs and have capabilities up to the current generation of Intel Core series CPUs.
| Brand | Patriot |
| Size | 32GB (16G x 2) |
| Technology | DDR4 |
| Speed | 3200Mhz |
| Compatible Devices | All Intel and AMD DDR4 Compatible Motherboards |
| RGB | No |
| Latency | 22-22-22-52 |
Pros
- Has an effective heat spreader made of aluminum.
- Provides 3200MHz clocks suitable for the majority of users at basic level.
- Much more affordable than RAMs with a gaming theme.
Cons
- CAS latency is comparatively high as compared to competitors.
- Does not come with RGB lights.
The Patriot Signature Premium DDR4 32GB 3200 MHz is the ideal entry-level RAM kit for gamers who want to meet their memory requirements without breaking the bank.
The Patriot Signature DIMMs, which retail for less than $60, provide free support if a user has an issue and a lifetime guarantee. With a superior heat spreader made of aluminum.
Best Alternate Budget DDR4 Memory For Gaming PCs
Silicon Power 16GB DDR4 RAM 3200 MHZ
This DDR4 memory module from Silicon Power Value was designed to improve desktop PC performance. It provides 3200 MHz speeds and 16GB of memory.
The RAM’s metal heat sink effectively dissipates heat, and its low voltage of 1.35V minimizes power consumption for hardware components.
| Brand | Silicon Power |
| Size | 16GB (8GB x 2) |
| Technology | DDR4 |
| Speed | 3200Mhz |
| Compatible Devices | All Intel and AMD DDR4 Compatible Motherboards |
| RGB | No |
| Latency | CL16 |
Pros
- Provides a low-cost DDR4 memory kit that is compatible with both AMD and Intel CPUs.
- The kit is covered by a lifetime guarantee.
- Provides superior CL16 latency at a 3200MHz memory clock speed.
- Features a low-profile heat sink and heat spreader, which makes it perfect for compact PC designs.
Cons
- Does not come with RGB lights.
- Requires greater voltages than other modules in order to operate at the XMP-stated rates.
- The heat spreader on only one side of the memory module bothers certain users.
For gamers on a limited budget, the Silicon Power Value Gaming DDR4 16GB (8GBx2) 3200MHz CL16 RAM kit is a great low-cost choice. It makes visual reductions by providing a single-sided heat spreader, which some users may find unappealing, but it also provides greater value than any of the DDR4-based options that are currently offered by numerous merchants.
Though it costs less than $30 per unit, the Silicon Power Value Gaming RAM kit does not include RGB. These RAM modules fulfill the specifications of the 12th and 13th-generation Intel CPUs on DDR4 motherboards and function well on both AMD and Intel systems.
The Best Premium DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs
CORSAIR Dominator Platinum RGB 128GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
With an average CL18 CAS latency, the Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB kits provide respectable clock rates of 3600 MHz. The Dominator Platinum DDR4 memory modules from Corsair have an all-white appearance with their distinctive CAPELLIX RGB LEDs, making them among of the most attractive memory modules available.
| Brand | Corsair |
| Size | 32GB (8GB x 4) |
| Technology | DDR4 |
| Speed | 3600Mhz |
| Compatible Devices | All Intel and AMD DDR4 Compatible Motherboards |
| RGB | Yes, ARGB Lighting |
| Latency | CL18 |
Pros
- Provides a reasonable CL18 latency at clock speeds of 3600MHz.
- Greatest RGB illumination of any RAM module available.
- Superior heat spreader to help the modules stay colder than similar ones.
- Provides outstanding iCUE control over the RGB lighting effects
Cons
- Much more costly than the majority of their rivals.
- In their pricing range, these RAMS are neither the fastest or lowest latency.
One of the most attractive premium gaming RAMs available is the Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB 3600Mhz 32GB DDR4. Regarding its memory modules, it provides gamers with a middling choice, although one might argue that these are still competitive and sufficient for most players.
However, the Dominator memory modules are among the most expensive DDR4 alternatives available, which makes them a rather unattractive purchase for serious users unless appearance is a crucial consideration.
Top 5 Best DDR5 RAM for Gaming You Should Buy in 2024
Conclusion | Best DDR4 RAM for Gaming
- The Best Overall DDR4 RAM for Gaming PCs: CORSAIR Vengeance RGB RT 32GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
- The Best Alternate Overall DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs: G.SKILL Ripjaws V Series 32GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
- The Best Budget DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs: Patriot signature premium 32GB DDR4 RAM 3200 MHZ
- The Best Alternate budget DDR4 Memory For Gaming PCs: Silicon Power 16GB DDR4 RAM 3200 MHZ
- The Best Premium DDR4 RAM For Gaming PCs: CORSAIR Dominator Platinum RGB 128GB DDR4 RAM 3600 MHZ
Best DDR4 RAM for Gaming | FAQs
How fast should RAM be for a gaming PC?
We advise sticking to a dual-channel setup using two DDR4 modules, each with a clock speed of at least 3,000MHz to maximize the performance of the best CPUs for gaming. Basically, with Ryzen 3000/5000 CPUs, you want to strive for 3,600MHz RAM.
How much RAM do I need?
For most serious gaming PCs, we advise starting with at least 16GB of RAM, but with recent price stability, upgrading to 32GB isn’t too expensive.
What is the difference between DDR4 and DDR5?
DDR5 is faster with up to 8,000MHz speed. Where the fastest DDR4 kits reach a speed plateau of about 5,000MHz. DDR5 outperforms DDR4 in terms of baseline performance, inbuilt power management, chip density, and the number of XMP profiles.
Will DDR5 work in a DDR4 motherboard?
No, it won’t. DDR4 and DDR5 memory are not electrically compatible, despite having 288 pins in common. To prevent someone from installing a DDR5 module into a DDR4 motherboard or vice versa, the two varieties have distinct notch positions.
For the new DDR5 RAM requirements, you need to design a new PC.
What is XMP?
Intel uses XMP, or Xtreme Memory Profile, to help DDR5 buyers get the most out of their memory sticks. Allowing you to overclock your RAM safely to get the blazing-fast speeds that DDR5 is capable of.
