Help Needed with Ram!

5oulja

Commendable
Apr 29, 2016
45
0
1,530
Hey Guys,

I need help picking up a ram for my ryzen 7 1700. I'm reading lot of ram issues with Ryzen compatibility and want to know which ram should i get? Also, is it necessary that i get 3200 mhz ram. Im reading a lot of articles stating that Ryzen works better with faster ram. I'm hoping you can guide me in the right direction.

Here is my build so far:

Cpu processor: ryzen 7 1700
cooler: noctua nh d15s with mount
psu: EVGA 550W G2
hdd: 1 tb western digital blue
operating system: windows 10 pro
mobo: msi b350 tomahawk

still need to get:

ssd: most likely 120 gb
tower: undecided
gpu: most likely gtx 1060

 
Solution
The thing with Ryzen and memory compatibility usually doesn't come from the RAM itself not working, but rather the fact that some people aren't able to get full speed out of their modules. To be honest, I'd rather have a 240gb SSD than good RAM for Ryzen.

The first thing to look for when choosing RAM is to make sure you get modules that have been tested on your motherboard through the manufacturer, through their QVL.

If none of them really fit your fancy, then the next best is the "Ryzen compatible" modules. These usually tend to be very expensive due to the fact that they use Samsung B-Die ICs. They're usually very fast (3000+ MHz) while also keeping low timings (CL14-16 depending on the kit). SK Hynix is the other option, and *some* people have problems getting full rated speeds out of 3200MHz kits with SK Hynix modules. B-Die kits are much more consistent.

Here's what I recommend if you don't find anything you want off your motherboard's QVL:
G.Skill TridentZ RGB (16gb, 3200MHz, CL14)
G.Skill FlareX (16gb, 3200MHz, CL14)
Team Dark Pro (16gb, 3200MHz, CL14)
G.Skill Ripjaws V (16gb, 3000MHz, CL14)
Corsair Vengeance LED (16gb, 3000MHz, CL15)

Not saying that SK Hynix memory wouldn't work, it will probably also work fine, it's just that these have a much lower chance of not reaching rated speeds. SK Hynix modules are cheaper, so if you're limited by budget, don't even bother looking towards what I linked. As you can see, it's unfortunately very expensive to get really good RAM for Ryzen.

Some other good (and cheaper) options:
Corsair Vengeance LPX (16gb, 2400MHz, CL14)
Crucial Ballistix Elite (16gb, 3000MHz, CL15)
G.Skill Ripjaws V (16gb, 3200MHz, CL16)
 


Hey, would it be a good idea to get 2400 mhz ram instead?
 

I'm running 2400mhz RAM right now with my Ryzen as a placeholder, it's fine to do it lol. Even though it's true that Ryzen runs better with faster RAM, the difference still isn't big enough that I'd call it a priority.
 
Solution