Give your system the best RAM for Gaming, as fast memory is required for better performance.
You can ensure your graphics card and CPU run at their best with the best RAM available. Upgrading your RAM is often the most straightforward and cheapest way to improve your gaming computer’s performance. It is almost impossible to find graphics cards, so a RAM upgrade may be the best option to increase performance.
This is the TL;DR: Choose a 16GB or 32GB RAM set at 3,200MHz (for Intel processors) and 3,600MHz (for AMD’s latest offerings). This should make your platform perform well. It’s no use going above 5,000MHz on Intel CPUs. If you are interested in more details, there are many options.
We cover the RAM speed to gaming deep-dive, including the technical memory latency metrics. Many low-latency options available today are perfect for AMD Ryzen gaming computers. So don’t hesitate to hunt down some RAM sticks for maximum system optimization quickly.
We’ve selected some of our top choices for PC gaming, regardless of your needs. Below is a list of RAM kits we tested at different price points to help you make smarter spending decisions.
Things To Consider For Best Gaming Ram
It doesn’t matter if you upgrade or buy a new gaming computer; you must have the best hardware to play your favorite games. The CPU and GPU will be the essential components for the best gaming performance. However, RAM is also an important component.
Capacity: When buying RAM for your computer, its maximum capacity is a crucial consideration. Although 16GB is sufficient for Gaming, 32GB RAM will ensure a long-lasting gaming machine that can handle heavy multitasking and high-performance Gaming.
Speed: You may need a better gaming experience even if your RAM is 32GB. You can check the speed rating of your RAM to ensure that you get better performance than 3200MHz RAM.
RAM Kit: You should check the RAM capacity, the overall size of the RAM kit, and the number of RAM sticks in the box. Two RAM sticks are required to create a dual-channel memory system. Most RAM for Gaming can be purchased in either 2 RAM sticks or 4. Depending on your future upgrades, You can choose which RAM stick you prefer.
These are just a few of the many things you need to know about RAM for gaming computers. The specifications and details of each memory option are listed here. “Buying Guide”.
8 Best RAM for Gaming Comparison
Feature | Corsair VENGEANCE RGB PRO 32GB | Crucial Ballistix 32GB | TEAMGROUP T-Force 32GB | Corsair Vengeance 32GB | G.SKILL TridentZ RGB 16GB | OLOy 16GB | Corsair Platinum RGB 32GB | HyperX Fury 32GB |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Memory Size | 32GB (2x16GB) | 32GB (2x16GB) | 32GB (2x16GB) | 32GB (2x16GB) | 16GB (2x8GB) | 16GB (2x8GB) | 32GB (4x8GB) | 32GB (4x8GB) |
Memory Speed | DDR4-3200 | DDR4-3200 | DDR4-3200 | DDR4-3200 | DDR4-3600 | DDR4-3200 | DDR4-3200 | DDR4-3200 |
CAS Latency | 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 18 | 16 | 16 | 16 |
Voltage | 1.2V | 1.2V | 1.2V | 1.2V | 1.35V | 1.2V | 1.35V | 1.35V |
RGB Lighting | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Warranty | Lifetime | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime |
Brand | Corsair | Crucial | TEAMGROUP | Corsair | G.SKILL | OLOy | Corsair | HyperX |
Module Configuration | 2 modules of 16GB each | 2 modules of 16GB each | 2 modules of 16GB each | 2 modules of 16GB each | 2 modules of 8GB each | 2 modules of 8GB each | 4 modules of 8GB each | 4 modules of 8GB each |
Heat Spreader Design | Aluminum with RGB accents | Aluminum with optional RGB | Aluminum with simple heatsink | Aluminum | Aluminum with RGB accents | Aluminum | Aluminum with RGB accents | Aluminum with minimal design |
Memory Rank | Dual Rank | Dual Rank | Dual Rank | Dual Rank | Dual Rank | Dual Rank | Dual Rank | Dual Rank |
Compatibility | Wide compatibility with various systems | Broad compatibility | Compatibility varies | Compatibility varies | Widely compatible | Compatibility varies | Broad compatibility | Broad compatibility |
1. Corsair VENGEANCE RGB PRO 32GB DDR4 Ram (2x16GB)
Corsair is a famous brand when it comes to RAM modules. It offers a wide variety of modules, including high-end RGB modules.
This list places the Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro RAM gaming at the top. It is an excellent choice if you are looking for both good performance and aesthetics. This 32GB RAM kit includes two 16GB RAM modules. In addition, these sticks feature RGB lighting, which can be controlled easily using the iCUE software.
These RAM sticks are extremely fast, with a speed rating 3600MHz and a CL18 CA latency rating. In addition, these memory sticks can be overclocked with XMP 2.0 support, which is always a great feature. These premium RAM sticks are a top-of-the-line offering from Corsair and come with a lifetime warranty. This makes them great for long-term use.
Best Features of Corsair VENGEANCE RGB PRO 32GB DDR4 Ram (2x16GB)
- Total RAM capacity 32 GB
- Each RAM stick contains 2 RAM sticks each of 16 GB
- Rated speed 3600 MHz
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Pros
- Offers RGB lighting
- Compatible with both AMD and Intel motherboards
- Perfect for overclocking with XMP 2.0 support
Cons
- A little on the expensive side
2. Crucial Ballistix 32GB DDR4 Ram (2x16GB)
Crucial RAM brands and producers are known for offering various value-for-money options that provide excellent performance while not charging a premium.
This Crucial Ballistix RAM gaming is ranked 2nd on this listicle because it offers excellent value for your money. The box comes with a 2 x 16GB RAM stick kit, which gives you 32 gigs of RAM. This allows for both multitasking and gaming. Although you don’t get RGB support, the aluminium heat spreader looks fantastic and provides proper cooling for RAM modules.
These RAM sticks have a 3200 MHz rating and a C16 CAS latency. This is normal for their price. This RAM kit supports both Intel and AMD platforms so that you will get better performance. This entry-level RAM kit does not include a 10-year warranty, unlike the premium Corsair product.
Best Features of Crucial Ballistix 32GB DDR4 Ram (2x16GB)
- Total RAM capacity 32 GB
- Each RAM stick contains 2 RAM sticks, each of 16 GB
- Rated speed 3200 MHz
- Warranty period: 10 years
Pros
- Excellent performance at a reasonable price
- RAM sticks with high value for money
- Aluminum heatsink for aesthetics and cooling
Cons
- Warranty is not the most extended
3. TEAMGROUP T-Force 32GB DDR4 Ram (2x16GB)
Although Team Group RAM is less well-known than other brands, you should consider it reliable when buying RAM for your gaming computer.
The Team Group T-Force Vulcan Z RAM gaming is in the third position in this article. This RAM can be considered if you seek value without sacrificing performance. This RAM for gaming computers is 32 GB capacity, just like other RAMs. It comes with two 16 GB modules. Although the heatsink is simple, it cools RAM modules with the pre-applied high-temperature conductive adhesive.
It has a memory speed of 3600 MHz, which is relatively high and not what you’d expect from a RAM kit that costs less. Nevertheless, you can enjoy excellent results when combined with the CAS latency of CL18, XMP 2.0 support, and CAS latency at CL18.
These RAM sticks are extremely fast, with a speed rating 3600MHz and a CL18 CA latency rating. In addition, these memory sticks can be overclocked with XMP 2.0 support, which is always a great feature. These premium RAM sticks are a top-end product from Corsair with a lifetime warranty. This makes them great for long-term use.
Best Features of TEAMGROUP T-Force 32GB DDR4 Ram (2x16GB)
- 32GB total RAM
- Each RAM stick contains 2 RAM sticks, each of 16 GB
- Rated speed 3600 MHz
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Pros
- Offers RGB lighting
- Compatible with both AMD and Intel motherboards
- Excellent for overclocking with XMP 2.0 support
Cons
- A bit expensive
4. Corsair’s Vengeance LPX RAM (2x16GB)
Corsair also sells RAM kits at a relatively lower price, offering similar performance but fewer options like customizations and lighting.
Corsair’s Vengeance LPX RAM is one of their most popular entry-level RAM kit options. You will be pleased to learn that 32GB of memory is available for heavy multitasking. Dual 16 GB RAM modules give you dual-channel support. Unfortunately, this RAM does not support RGB lighting, which can cause problems for some.
This RAM kit is rated at 3200 MHz and has a low CAS latency of just CL16, enabling decent gaming performance. This RAM kit’s 34mm height makes it easy to use with large CPU air cooling units. This XMP 2.0 RAM Kit comes with a 10-year warranty. It is a relatively low-end model and, therefore, less high-end.
Best Features of Corsair Vengeance LPX RAM 32GB Ram (2x16GB)
- Total RAM capacity 32 GB
- Each RAM stick contains 2 RAM sticks, each of 16 GB
- Rated speed 3200 MHz
- Warranty period: 10 years
Pros
- RAM with a low profile
- Excellent performance numbers
- Uses XMP 2.0 to overclock
Cons
- A lifetime warranty is not offered
5. G.SKILL Trident Z RGB Series 16GB DDR4 Ram (2 x 8GB)
G.Skill is best known for its high-end RAM kits for gaming computers, but it also has a few entry-level models with unique features, especially for the price.
G.Skill’s Trident Z RGB Series RAM is an excellent option for anyone who wants a beautiful RAM kit at a low price. G.Skill’s 16 GB RAM capacity is a perfect option for gamers who wish to use RGB lighting at a lower price. It is a dual-channel, consisting of two 8GB RAM sticks. This allows for excellent gaming performance.
G.Skill primarily produces high-performance RAM kits, so even the entry-level model is rated at 3200 MHz speeds and CL16 CAS latency. This combination makes for the best gaming performance for the price. You also get support for Intel AMD and XMP2.0 support. A lifetime warranty also covers these RAM sticks, like other high-end products from G.Skill.
Best Features of G.Skill’s Trident Z RGB Series RAM
- Total RAM capacity 16 GB
- Each RAM stick contains 2 RAM sticks with 8 GB each
- Rated speed 3200 MHz
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Pros
- Outstanding performance
- Attractive RGB lighting design
- Compatible with both AMD and Intel motherboards
Cons
- Some buyers may have limited RAM
6. OLOy 16GB DDR4 Ram (2x8GB)
Oloy is a brand that offers a small selection of computer components and RAM modules. It’s also a relatively new brand.
This Oloy RAM gaming is the most affordable option in this listicle. It is an excellent option for budget gaming computers. It has 16GB of RAM, which is what you’d expect from a RAM kit this affordable. This RAM kit also comes with dual 8GB RAM sticks for decent gaming performance. Unfortunately, this kit does not have RGB lighting, so you might want to look elsewhere.
The RAM kit has a rating of just 3000 MHz, a CL16 CAS latency rating and is only rated at average gaming performance. XMP 2.0 support allows for more overclocking. Oloy is an excellent option for long-term use, despite being an affordable option.
Best Features of OLOy 16GB DDR4 Ram (2x8GB)
- Total RAM capacity 16 GB
- Each RAM stick contains 2 RAM sticks with 8 GB each
- Rated speed of 3000MHz
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Pros
- Very affordable RAM kit
- Overclocking support for both Intel and AMD platforms
- Long-term warranty
Cons
- Not the most efficient option
7. Corsair Platinum RGB 32GB DDR4 Ram (4x8GB)
Corsair also has a few high-end RAM kit options that can be used for high-performance numbers and great lighting inside your computer.
One of the best gaming options is Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB RAM. It’s an excellent choice for multitasking and gaming, with 32 gigabytes of RAM. You can fill every slot of your motherboard with four sticks, each of 8GB. It also features RGB lighting, making it one of the most attractive RAM kits.
It is a beautiful RAM kit option. The 3600 MHz RAM speed and CL18 CAS latency combine to give it excellent performance. You can overclock the RAM kit with the Corsair iCUE software, XMP 2.0 support, and the Corsair iCUE hardware. This RAM kit comes with support for both Intel and AMD platforms. It also includes a lifetime warranty of reliability.
Best Features of Corsair Platinum RGB 32GB DDR4 Ram (4x8GB)
- Total RAM capacity 32 GB
- Each RAM stick contains 4 RAM sticks with 8 GB each
- Rated speed 3600 MHz
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Pros
- Outstanding gaming performance
- Attractive RGB lighting
- Support for Corsair iCUE software
Cons
- The RAM kit can be relatively expensive
8. HyperX Fury 32GB DDR4 Ram (4x8GB)
HyperX is another option if you’re looking for high-performance RAM kit options for your gaming PC.
The best gaming RAM, HyperX’s Fury RAM, is listed in this article. It has a 32-gigabyte capacity, which is excellent for all applications. To ensure this capacity, HyperX included four sticks, each of 8GB. Unfortunately, HyperX doesn’t offer RGB lighting for these modules, which could be problematic if you look for great RAM kits.
This RAM kit is perfect for gaming. It has a 3600 MHz rating and a low CL17 CLCAS latency rating. If that’s not enough, you’ll be happy to know that the kit can reach 3733 MHz with its XMP 2.0 support. This supports both Intel and AMD motherboards. It also has a lifetime warranty, just like another high-end RAM kit.
Best Features of HyperX Fury 32GB DDR4 Ram (4x8GB)
- Total RAM capacity 32 GB
- Each RAM stick contains 4 RAM sticks with 8 GB each
- Rated speed 3600 MHz
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Pros
- Outstanding gaming performance
- Excellent RGB lighting aesthetics
- Support for Corsair iCUE software
Cons
- Relatively high cost for purchasing a RAM kit
The Best RAM for Gaming: A Guide to Buying
A lot of components are present in a gaming computer. Each plays an essential role in providing optimal gaming performance.
The CPU and GPU are essential for modern CPU games. However, you’ll also need the best RAM for gaming. All these RAM options have the exact specifications and features, making it easy to choose the best one. For more information, you can consult this buying guide to the best RAM for gaming.
Capacity
You should always check the RAM capacity before you buy it. This is because you can run many programs simultaneously with more RAM.
This means that if you plan to use your computer to do heavy multitasking, 32GB RAM will be more suitable than 16GB RAM. However, gaming is a different matter. 16GB RAM is sufficient, but 32GB RAM will be required for the best performance, especially if you stream multiple games simultaneously.
Speed and CAS latency
It would help if you also considered the speed and CAS latency when buying RAM to get the best gaming performance. This will ensure your RAM is high in capacity and fast enough to provide the best gaming experience. The speed rating is in MHz, the same speed as your CPU.
A 3600 MHz RAM Kit will give you better gaming performance than a 3000 or 3200 MHz kit. You can also check the CAS delay of your RAM kit. A lower CAS rating means better gaming performance. For example, a lower CL16 CAS latency will give you better performance than one with the same speed rating. Combining these ratings will give a 3600MHz CL17 kit better performance than a CL18 kit at 3600MHz and a CL16 kit at 3200MHZ.
Kit Size
Check the kit size after choosing the best RAM size and speed rating for your gaming computer. This indicates the number of RAM sticks in the box. For dual-channel support, at least two RAM sticks are required to get the best performance out of your RAM kit.
All RAM kits for gaming computers include either 2 or 4 sticks. Both offer the same performance, but a 2-stick kit lets you add two additional posts to your RAM in the future. Although a 4-stick kit will fill all your slots, it is slightly more expensive than a dual-stick one at the same capacity.
Support for Motherboard
Your motherboard must support high-performance RAM kits before you install them in your gaming system. The DDR version has a vital compatibility rating.
Unfortunately, DDR3 and DDR4 are not compatible. Using different RAM sticks, you can also find support for Intel and AMD motherboards. All the RAM modules for gaming listed above are DDR4 modules that support Intel chipsets and AMD chipsets, ensuring maximum compatibility with modern gaming computers. Consider XMP 2.0 support when you purchase RAM modules for gaming. This will allow you to increase your computer’s memory speed for better performance.
Lighting
Many RAM stick models, like many other computer components, come with RGB or inbuilt lighting. Although it will not impact the RAM stick’s performance, it can make your computer appear better if there is a transparent side panel. However, RAM sticks with RGB lighting will be slightly more expensive for the different aesthetics.
Warranty
You are likely to spend a lot of money building a computer capable of playing PC games. You want your components to last as long as possible. RAM modules are built on flash storage, which is exceptionally reliable. All RAM for gaming computers comes with a 10-year or lifetime warranty. These warranties are significantly higher than the actual use of your computer if you want to play AAA games.
FAQ: Best Gaming RAM
How much RAM do you need?
We recommend a minimum of 16GB for most serious gaming PCs (it’s what we use in our best gaming PCs), but it is relatively inexpensive to upgrade to 32GB these days, thanks to a recent pricing crash. That capacity will provide a hefty buffer if you’re inclined to multitask, creative or intensive apps, or, y’know, heavy Chrome tab usage–check out our handy guide if you’re wondering how much RAM you need.
What speed should RAM be to run a gaming computer?
We recommend that you use two DDR4 modules in a dual-channel build. Each module should have a minimum clock speed of 3,000MHz. That should ensure you’re getting the most out of the best CPUs for gaming. Of course, you can settle for the best Intel kit, but AMD Ryzen customers will want to dig a little deeper.
For Zen 2 (Ryzen 5000) chips, you should aim for 3,600MHz memory. However, it has been suggested that Ryzen 5000 CPUs should be run on 4,000MHz memory.
Are RGB LEDs required for my memory DIMMs
Not. Not. However, RGB can make your computer look more relaxed, and PCs must run cool.
Jargon buster – RAM terminology
DIMMs-Dual In-Line Memory Modul, the physical circuit board holds the RAM chips that plug into the slots of your motherboard.
ECC Memory– Error-correcting code memory, RAM that can detect and correct errors automatically on the fly. It is commonly used in sensitive applications such as scientific data collection and banking. Most desktop boards can run it as non-ECC, typically only supported on servers or workstations.
Frequency– The speed at which the memory works, measured in MHz
CL/CAS Latency– Column Access Strobe latency is the delay between the memory controller asking for data from the RAM and the available data; the first number is listed under a kit’s timings.
SO-DIMM– These slots are smaller and more commonly found in laptops. However, they can also be used on small machines.
Timing– The number of memory clock cycles for the RAM operation to complete. A lower number is usually better.
XMP eXtreme Memory Profil, instructions for BIOS that tell it at what frequency, timings, and voltage to access RAM. This is a shortcut for overclocking without having to tweak each setting individually. Many AMD boards can read XMP data, although it might officially be called A-XMP (or DOHC) for Intel platforms.
Conclusion
High-end parts are essential to get the best performance from your computer when playing AAA games. Check your RAM and make sure you have a robust set.
Below are some top RAM options for gaming PCs and details such as features and pricing. You can also find a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best RAM for gaming. Finally, if you still have questions, we recommend one of these top picks for the best RAM for gaming.
The Gaming RAM from Oloy is much more affordable than the other options, making it an excellent option for budget gaming computers. It comes with 16GB RAM and 3000 MHz speeds thanks to its dual CL16 RAM sticks. This is reasonable for the price. This one is more expensive than most budget options and has a lifetime warranty for long-term use.
If your budget is not restricted, you can still enjoy the benefits of this product. Kingston HyperX Fury RAM This is an excellent choice. This four-RAM stick kit has a total capacity of 32GB RAM. It also boasts impressive speeds of 3600MHz and CL17, making it one of the most potent RAM sticks available. HyperX memory is known for its reliability, and you get a lifetime warranty.
Suppose you are looking for a RAM stick that is both stylish and high-performance, the Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro. This 32GB RAM kit includes two bars and RGB lighting. It also comes with 3600 MHz and CL18 ratings. These RAM modules come with a 10-year warranty from Corsair for long-term use.