11 best memory modules
RAM in a personal computer, and in a laptop - this is such a component component, which for the most part can not be too much - along with a hard disk or video card memory. The RAM architecture naturally evolved over time, and now the most common standards are DDR3 and DDR4. The differences between these standards are quite significant and numerous, but the main, to summarize, is the speed of work. In our today's review, we will look at the most accessible on the market and at the same time optimal for other factors OP modules from different manufacturers. Thanks to the work of our experts, editorial staff at expert.bigbadmole.com/en/en/ presents you with an overview in the format of the rating of specific models sorted by specifications.
Rating of the best RAM modules
Nomination | a place | Name of product | price |
The best modules of DDR3 RAM | 1 | DELL 370-ABGJ | 8 779 ₽ |
2 | Cisco N01-M308GB2 | 5 868 ₽ | |
3 | HyperX HX318C10FR / 8 | 4 645 ₽ | |
4 | Kingston KVR16S11 | 4 580 ₽ | |
5 | Corsair CMSX8GX3M1A1600C10 | 4 794 ₽ | |
Best DDR4 RAM Modules | 1 | HPE 876181-B21 | 26 175 ₽ |
2 | DELL 370-ABUN | 9 994 ₽ | |
3 | Ballistix BLE8G4D26AFEA | 5 435 ₽ | |
4 | Samsung DDR4 2400 DIMM 8Gb | 4 925 ₽ | |
5 | HyperX HX424C15FB2 / 8 | 4 758 ₽ | |
6 | Crucial CT8G4DFD8213 | 10 500 ₽ |
The best modules of DDR3 RAM
To begin, we will look at a selection of five models of DDR3 standard memory from different manufacturers, each of which is well known even to a non-specialist. First, a few words about what such a memory is. In appearance, the memory module is very similar to DDR4 - the same “bar” with chips, and not quite. This standard is about 10 years old, and DDR4 memory is expectedly faster and more productive than the memory of the previous generation. Here is the question of compatibility.
When it comes to buying a computer from scratch, then most often it makes sense not to bother and immediately take a configuration compatible with DDR4. But for many users, the machine that has been available for several years has been more than enough, and the only catch is in increasing productivity, which can be ensured by an elementary upgrade - expanding the RAM. That is why the memory standard DDR3 remains relevant and in demand. DDR3 is actually the third generation of a synchronous dynamic type OP with random access and twice as fast as the previous generation (DDR2) and with improved bandwidth. Against these improvements, DDR3 is also significantly less demanding on power consumption.
DELL 370-ABGJ
Rating: 4.9
The first number in the review is the memory of one of the most famous and reputable electronics manufacturers in the world - the American corporation DELL. The company manufactures and supplies worldwide computers and almost all types of components recognized for their quality.
Memory bar 370-ABGJ is full-length, not low-profile. The number of contacts is 240. The memory itself is register-based, with full ECC support, which means that its intended use is only server systems. On ordinary desktop PCs it will not work. The amount of memory in this configuration is 8 GB.
The memory chips operate at a frequency of 1866 MHz, provide a bandwidth of 15000 MB / s.Other things being equal, the memory has a relatively high latency (delays in cycles between read and write) - CL13, but this is done largely for the sake of reliability and continuity, which is so important in server systems. Last but not least, for the same reason, the number of ranks (rank) is minimal — one.
Some more information from the manufacturer that may be of interest to a specialist: nominal operating (operating) temperature is 85 ° C; required voltage - 1.5 V; regular cooling and visual "lotions" like the backlight is not provided; warranty from the manufacturer is 36 months; comes in a package with dimensions of 70x130x50 mm.
Virtues
- high resiliency;
- 3 year warranty;
- reputable manufacturer.
disadvantages
- pronounced minuses are not marked.
Cisco N01-M308GB2
Rating: 4.8
Further in our rating comes another server memory of the DDR4 generation produced by an American multinational corporation, the very name of which is already credible and is associated with professional server and communication equipment. For a number of parameters, this model significantly exceeds the previous one.
Like the previous instance, this model is made in the same full-size form factor with 240 contacts. Since the memory is server-based, it is a register memory and supports ECC.
RAM runs at a clock frequency of 1333 MHz, provides a bandwidth of 10,600 MB / s. Built on a two-rank basis (Dual Rank). Support for overclocking memory through BIOS via Extreme Memory Profiles (XMP) technology is not implemented, but the timing scheme is much better than the previous model - 9-9-9. It is powered by a source of 1.5 V.
One module of this modification has a capacity of 8 GB. Supplied without standard cooling and lighting.
Virtues
- increased timing compared with the previous model;
- higher bandwidth;
- Dual rank.
disadvantages
- not noted.
HyperX HX318C10FR / 8
Rating: 4.8
The third item in our rating is the HyperX memory, a division of the American corporation Kingston Technology, whose name is firmly associated with information carriers of a wide variety of form factors.
The amount of memory module, which we consider, is similar to the previous two - 8 GB. Made in the form factor of a full-size (not low profile) DIMM block with 240 contacts.
The difference with respect to the two models mentioned above is in the parameters of the module electronics. By conventional “speed,” this memory is a cross between the two server options described above. The chips operate at a clock frequency of 1866 MHz, the unit can withstand bandwidth up to 14,900 MB / s. Timing parameters are as follows: CL-10, tRCD-11, tRP-10.
The radical difference between this RAM is that it is not a register memory and does not have ECC support, which means it lacks a server-side "specialization", and can be used freely in home desktop PCs. XMP overclocking support is also not implemented, but the memory is technologically built on a two-rank basis.
One module contains 16 chips. In the nomenclature of this modification there are the letter combination "FR", which stands for "Fury Red". This is a kind of name, printed in the corporate font right on the regular radiator with a stylish bright red coating. There is in the lineup HyperX also its complete analogue, only with a black radiator and the nomenclature “Fury Black (FB)”.
In the design of the memory module, design, availability of a regular radiator with a thoughtful design can be traced clear gaming themes. Manufacturer's warranty is 5 years.
Virtues
- suitable for home desktop PCs;
- five year warranty;
- regular radiator;
- Stylish radiator design (well suited for open enclosures).
disadvantages
- relatively expensive (according to customer reviews).
Kingston KVR16S11
Rating: 4.7
Further in the ranking of the best RAM-memory modules according to the experts of expert.bigbadmole.com/en/en/, the memory should be of a fundamentally different form factor than the previous three. Namely, SODIMM for 204 contacts. Module adapted for installation in laptops.The manufacturer is the world-famous American corporation Kingston, which is widely known to anyone who has at least some business with electronics.
The complete product range has an additional marking at the end - / 8, which means 8 GB of memory. There are other modifications marked at the end of the S8 / 4, implying a capacity of 4 GB.
The RAM operates at a clock frequency of 1600 MHz and provides data throughput of 12800 MB / s. Built on a two-rank model. ECC error correction technology, XMP overclocking is not supported. Also, the memory is obviously not registered (not buffered).
One module contains 16 chips. Works from voltage 1.5 V. Timing parameters: CL-11, tRCD-11, tRP-11.
Virtues
- smooth operation in dual channel mode;
- suitable for laptops;
- relatively inexpensive.
disadvantages
- pinpoint complaints about factory defects (replacing no problems).
Corsair CMSX8GX3M1A1600C10
Rating: 4.7
And completes the group of the RAM rating of the DDR3 generation, the production model of the relatively young (1994 foundation year) of the American company Corsair. This is also a “notebook” memory, made in the SODIMM form factor with 204 contacts. Functions from the same voltage as all of the above - 1.5 V.
The module operates at a clock frequency of 1600 MHz and is capable of developing data exchange capacity of 12,800 MB / s. The memory capacity of this modification is 8 GB. Timing scheme: 10-10-10-27.
Like the previous model from Kingston, this RAM does not support ECC, it is not registered and not low-profile. In the design there is a claim to the original design in the form of an insert with the brand logo of Corsair, but there is no high-grade radiator. Oddly enough, this circumstance is enough for many users to single out it as an advantage.
Virtues
- reliability and continuity;
- suitable for laptops;
- "Fair" performance;
- interesting design.
disadvantages
- problems with dual channel mode on a large number of models of modern laptops.
Best DDR4 RAM Modules
The second selection of RAM modules in the rating from expert.bigbadmole.com/en/en/ is memory, a generation above the previous group - DDR4. The differences between these generations are very significant.
DDR3 has 240 pins, while the DDR4 module contains 288 pins. A greater number of contacts in this case is needed to maximize the addressing of memory areas. The connector key (the same groove) is in a different place - closer to the center, so it’s impossible to confuse physically when installing DDR3 and DDR4. There are still differences in the size of the reference plate, but for the most part they are not fundamental.
Much more interesting differences begin at the level of fine electronics. So, DDR4 memory is powered by 1.2 V versus 1.5 V for DDR3. Very noticeable difference in the minimum clock frequency. If the third generation operates at a minimum of 1066 MHz, then the fourth - from 2133 MHz and higher. It is fair to say that a two-fold increase in frequency does not automatically mean a double increase in performance.
But the most important difference between the OP of two neighboring generations is the memory access architecture. Here, the main tasks are the fundamentally new bus with the naturally formed name Point-to-Point which connects each channel with a separate module, while the DDR3 Multi-Drop bus had a hard two channel limit and even with four modules, the interaction took place literally sense in turn, which is detrimental to speed.
And one more important moment in the technology - the DDR4 chip with an equal volume with DDR3 has twice the memory banks, and the memory lines themselves are four times shorter.
HPE 876181-B21
Rating: 4.9
We turn directly to the review of models, and begin with an interesting option from the HPE brand. This trademark may seem unfamiliar to many, but it is well known to all professionals and amateurs of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, that is, a corporation whose credibility there is no doubt.
The bar is made in the standard PC DIMM form factor with 288 pins. The volume of the module in this specification - 8 GB. The memory operates at a frequency of 2666 MHz with a bandwidth of 21,300 MB / s. Timing options: CL-19, tRCD-19, tRP-19.The module is full, not low profile.
In this model, there is full support for ECC, register memory - all of this points strictly to the server "orientation". Built on a two-rank basis. It is delivered without regular cooling.
Virtues
- fair performance;
- reliability and uninterrupted;
- reputable manufacturer with reliable warranty.
disadvantages
- high price.
DELL 370-ABUN
Rating: 4.8
Next in our ranking is the memory produced by the American corporation DELL. According to the form factor, this is the same full-profile module with the standard number of 288 pins for DDR4.
This, as expected, is the most expensive 8-gigabyte memory in this collection - it has ECC support, buffered (register-registered), full-profile. All this indicates its server specialization - it will not work on ordinary home PCs.
RAM chips operate at a clock frequency of 2133 MHz. The module is built on a two-rank basis. The nominal operating temperature of the chips is 85 ° C. CAS Latency timing indicator - 15.
Dimensions of one module - 133.35x31.25 mm, weight with packaging - 34 g. Delivered without a standard radiator, in “pure” form. Manufacturer's warranty is one year.
Virtues
- server;
- reliable;
- reputable manufacturer.
disadvantages
- The official warranty is only 12 months (for servers - a short time).
Ballistix BLE8G4D26AFEA
Rating: 4.7
By the third number in the second selection of the rating we consider a very noticeable in all senses the production model. Ballistix Elite with the stock number BLE8G4D26AFEA.
The RAM in the form factor of the 288-pin DIMM-bar is implemented. The memory operates at a clock frequency of 2666 MHz and provides a bandwidth of 21,300 MB / s. Capacity of one module is 8 GB.
Support for the following technologies: ECC, XMP, buffering - not supported, which means that the memory module is not a register one. Also, the bar is full-length, which means - not low-profile.
The timings in this case are as follows: CL-16, tRCD-17, tRP-17. The module is powered by a 1.2 V power supply.
And finally, the most prominent feature of this module is the radiator, which has impressive game features.
Virtues
- US production;
- looks solid;
- lifetime warranty.
disadvantages
- chips from micron.
Samsung DDR4 2400 DIMM 8Gb
Rating: 4.7
Now we present to you the memory of the world-famous South Korean technology giant. Even the model nomenclature reflects a minimum of information. Traditionally for low-profile DDR memory, it is made in the form factor of a 288-pin bar.
The clock frequency of the RAM is slightly less than the previous one - 2400 MHz. The transmittance is 19200 MB / s. The capacity of the module is 8 GB.
ECC, Registered and Low Profile parameters are negative. Timing options: CL-17, tRCD - 17, tRP - 17.
Each module contains 16 chips. The plank feeds from a 1.2V source. Built on a peer-to-peer architecture.
Virtues
- accelerates well;
- not heated;
- speed of work.
disadvantages
- delivery without regular radiators.
HyperX HX424C15FB2 / 8
Rating: 4.6
And another well-known brand in our rating, it is also a division of the American company Kingston. The bar is executed in a 288-pin format with a frequency of 2400 MHz. As you can see, the frequency of this memory is similar to the previous one. Capacity - significantly less than in the previous version.
The capacity of the module is 8 GB. ECC, XMP and buffering are not supported, which means that the memory can work in desktop PCs. At the same time, this module is low-profile, which means it can be used in laptops.
Timing scheme is as follows: CL-15, tRCD-15, tRP-15. Another thing to add is that each module contains 8 chips with one-sided packaging. Operating voltage - 1.2 V. The module is built on a peer-to-peer system. There is a spectacular radiator
Virtues
- accelerates well;
- reliability;
- beautiful appearance (radiator);
- 10 years warranty;
- adequate cost.
disadvantages
- peer to peer at the same cost crucial ballistix.
Crucial CT8G4DFD8213
Rating: 4.5
And completes our rating module of RAM from the transnational corporation Micron Technology, which at one time identified the brand Crucial Ballistix as a separate brand, after which the brand received a new, more concise name - Ballistix.
The module is made in the traditional format - 288-pin DIMM-module. The memory clock speed is 2133 MHz. The capacity is 17000 MB / s, and the volume of one module is the traditional 8 GB.
Exactly the same as in the previous model, support for ECC, XMP and buffering is not implemented here. By analogy with the previous module, this memory is low-profile, which means it is suitable for installation under coolers.
Timing options: CL-15. The number of chips of each module is 16 with two-sided packaging. Operating voltage - 1.2 V. The number of ranks - 2.
Virtues
- accelerates well;
- work speed;
- stable work.
disadvantages
- by default it works with standard timings.
Attention! This rating is subjective, is not advertising and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you should consult with a specialist.