Best RAM for Gaming in 2020

Butcher79

March 15, 2020

We take a look at the best up and coming DDR4 RAM options for gaming in 2020 that will brighten up any build.

When choosing the best DDR4 RAM for gaming, there are a few things you need to take into account. Let's first look at the total memory capacity you're looking for. We recommend a minimum of 16GB for most PCs (which is what we use in our high-end PC build), but it's not that expensive to upgrade to 32GB these days, which provides a hefty buffer if you're prone to multitasking. The second thing to consider is the speed of the RAM. In some cases, the clock speed of your memory is just as important as the amount of memory you have. As a general rule, we like to run two DDR4 modules at 3000Hz or higher, even if that means wasting a few GB. If your motherboard supports up to four RAM modules, you can always purchase additional modules later.

High-quality memory with fancy heatsinks and dazzling RGB lighting is a great addition to any game for PC enthusiasts. But if you're looking for something a little more subtle and cost-effective, there are also some great options that won't break the bank. Whatever your specific needs, we've rounded up some of our favorite PC gaming options below.

1. Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB 32GB DDR4-3200MHz

The best RAM for gaming

Clock frequency: DDR4-3200MHz | Timings: 16-18-18-36 | Cas Latency: 16 | Voltage: 1,35V | Number of modules: 2x16GB

➤Ultra-bright Capellix RGB LEDs

➤Dominator DHX heat spreaders

➤Advanced iCUE software

➤Module height can cause clearance problems

Corsair has outdone themselves with the Dominator Platinum RGB. The original DDR4 kit has long been our favorite high-end memory kit. Its sleek appearance, patented DHX cooling technology and unrivaled performance have made it a flagship for years to come. Now the legendary Dominator Platinum returns with a discreet new design and new Corsair Capellix LED technology.

The Dominator Platinum RGB has the same best-in-class performance as the original, adds higher clock speeds and 12 individually addressable Capellix RGB LEDs. The new LEDs are brighter and more efficient than previous iterations. Combined with Corsair's powerful iCUE software, the Dominator Platinum RGB is both the best RGB and high-end performance suite.

The price isn't much different from the original non-RGB Dominator Platinum, but you're still paying a hefty sum compared to some of the other kits mentioned in this guide. We still think it's worth every penny if you can afford it.

2. G.Skill Trident Z Neo 32GB DDR4-3600MHz

The best RAM for gaming with an AMD motherboard

Clock frequency: DDR4-3600MHz | Timings: 18-22-22-42 | Cas Latency: 18 | Voltage: 1,35V | Number of modules: 2x16GB

➤High speed and large RGB set

➤Optimized for AMD Ryzen builds

Slightly thicker heatsink

➤RGB software missing

G.Skill's Trident Z RGB RAM has been dominating our guide for years, and it's no surprise that the Trident Z Neo series has also earned its place here. Like the original Trident Z RGB series, the Trident Z Neo features gorgeous, tasteful RGB lighting. What's more, the Neo series is optimized for AMD Ryzen builds, making this low-cost option the perfect choice for budget-conscious Ryzen PCs.

Just like the overall performance of your Ryzen PC, the Trident Z Neo offers fantastic bang for your buck. You can get a 32GB kit for less than $200, which means you can also easily upgrade your machine to (admittedly unnecessary) 64GB of high-speed DDR4 memory in the future.

Like its counterpart, the Trident Z Neo comes in a variety of speeds and configurations from 2600MHz to 3800MHz. Each module is equipped with five individually addressable RGB LEDs that perfectly illuminate any PC.

3. G.Skill Trident Z RGB 16GB DDR4-2400MHz

The best RAM for gaming if you also want a light show

Frequency: DDR4-2400MHz | Timings: 15-15-15-35 | Cas Latency: 15 | Voltage: 1,2V | Number of planks: 2x8GB

➤Beautiful RGB patterns

➤Same height as non-RGB models

➤Still no custom lighting profiles

Ryzen builds prefer faster RAM

RAM modules have been around for a long time, and RGB-enabled options have become commonplace. J. Skill's Trident Z RGB is one of the most exquisite RGB lighting implementations we've come across. The kit is illuminated by five individually addressable RGB LEDs and a matte diffuser that creates a soft glow that looks fantastic on almost any computer.

Memory performance is the same as looks, with the Trident Z line available in speeds from 2400 to 3600 and more. Overclocking performance is on par with other Trident memory, and with proper tuning you can usually squeeze a couple hundred more MHz out of the box. The Trident Z RGB line deserves attention in any build.

4. Ballistix Tactical Tracer RGB 32GB DDR4-2666MHz

Best RAM for gaming with fully customizable RGB

Speed: DDR4-2666MHz | Timings: 16-18-18-36 | Cas Latency: 16 | Voltage: 1,2V | Planks: 4x8GB

➤3D printed and detachable lightbar

➤Reliable RGB software control

➤RGB software does not work on X99

If you're looking to personalize and upgrade your PC, Crucial's Ballistix Tactical Tracer RGB series is for you. Available in 16GB to 64GB configurations at 2666MHz and 3000MHz, the latest Ballistix DDR4 memory fits a wide range of builds at no extra cost. The main draw here is the 16 addressable RGB LEDs with eight controllable zones and an easily removable light bar that diffuses and enhances RGB effects.

Crucial provides free 3D files that allow you to print a variety of light bars to create a wide range of aesthetics for any build. Advanced users can modify existing files to print their own gamertag or custom designs. In addition, you can remove the light bar completely for a dazzling effect. The Ballistix Tactical Tracer RGB provides a customization not found in the Trident Z RGB G.Skill series, and when you look at the state of the art software and features that come with Ballistix, it's easy to see how it's the best choice for PC modders.

5. G.Skill Ripjaws V 16GB DDR4-2400MHz

The best RAM for gaming for mid-range computers

Speed: DDR4-2400MHz | Timings: 15-15-15-35 | Cas Latency: 15 | Voltage: 1,2V | Planks: 2x8GB

➤Decent price

➤Excellent overclocking headroom

Minor stability issues at higher speeds

G.Skill Ripjaws V is the second generation of DDR4 memory from G.Skill, and it is clear that the company has listened to the feedback and criticism from customers. The new series has become more affordable, faster and less sticky. We found 16 GB set Rip Jaws V as the best option for a decent capacity kit that delivers great performance right out of the box.

The Ripjaws V immediately excelled in our tests without any overclocking, beating several kits in the 2400MHz band. Despite this, you can still achieve overclocking to 2800-3000 MHz with a simple power surge. You may reach 3200 MHz or higher, although you may experience stability issues. Reasonably priced, whether stock or overclocked, the G.Skill Ripjaws V is hard to beat.

6. Patriot Viper Elite 8GB DDR4-2400MHz

The best RAM for gaming on a budget

Speed: DDR4-2400MHz | Timings: 15-15-15-35 | Cas Latency: 15 | Voltage: 1,2V | Planks: 2x4GB

➤Inexpensive upgrade

➤ Easy overclocking

Possible clearance issues when using large CPU coolers

Viper Patriot Elite 8GB not the cheapest DDR4 memory option you can find, but in our opinion the best value when you're on a low budget. This dual-channel kit is priced below competitors such as the HyperX Fury and Corsair Vengeance LPX while also offering similar levels of performance. And unlike cheaper kits, the Viper Elite has decent heatsinks and overclocking capability.

For those looking to take full advantage of the Viper Elite, a simple overclock improves its performance over much more expensive options. One of the great things about DDR4 is that it typically runs at 1,2V, and even the slightest boost in voltage can give you a bit more clock speed while still being cooler than DDR3. We easily reach 2800 MHz and 3000 MHz, and 3200 MHz are possible.

JARGON - RAM TERMINOLOGY

DIMMs

Dual In Line Memory Module, a physical slot on the motherboard (actually a small circuit board) where RAM is inserted.

ECC Memory

Error-correcting code memory, RAM capable of automatically detecting and correcting errors on the fly, commonly used in highly sensitive applications such as scientific data collection or banking. Typically used and supported only on servers and workstations, although most desktop boards can operate as non-ECC.

Frequency

A measure in MHz of the number of instructions that a RAM kit can process per second.

CL/CAS Latency

Column access delay - the delay between the memory controller requesting data from RAM and the available data; the first number specified in dialing timings.

SO-DIMM

Smaller DIMM slots are commonly found in laptops.

Delays

A measure of the number of memory cycles that the operation requested by the memory controller to complete the RAM will perform. The lower the better.

XMP

eXtreme Memory Profile, instructions for the BIOS that tell it how often, time and voltage to activate the RAM at the same time, a shortcut for overclocking without damaging each setting separately. Officially for Intel platforms, unofficially, many AMD boards readily support reading XMP data (although it may be referred to by a different name, such as A-XMP or DOHC).

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