Building a gaming PC in 2024 is all about getting the right balance between power and price. While the newer DDR5 technology is making waves, DDR4 RAM remains a fantastic choice for many gamers, offering excellent performance at a more budget-friendly cost.
In this article, we will get into the top 7 DDR4 RAM options for gaming desktops in 2024, offering a variety of needs and budgets. We will explore factors to consider when choosing RAM, highlight key features of each pick, and help you find the perfect memory upgrade to power your next gaming adventure.
Choosing the Right DDR4 RAM for You
Before we get into specific RAM kits, let’s take a look at some key factors to consider when making your choice:
- Speed (MHz): Measured in Megahertz (MHz), speed refers to how quickly your RAM can transfer data. Higher MHz translates to faster processing, which is especially beneficial for games that rely heavily on loading textures and assets.
- Capacity (GB): This indicates the total amount of data your RAM can store at a time. Modern games can be memory-hungry, so consider 16GB as a minimum for a smooth experience. If you plan on multitasking while gaming or using resource-intensive applications, 32GB might be a better choice.
- CAS Latency (CL): CAS (Column Address Strobe) Latency refers to the time it takes for your RAM to access a specific location in memory. Lower CL timings translate to faster access and potentially better performance, but often come at a premium price.
- Compatibility: Ensure your chosen RAM kit is compatible with your motherboard’s chipset and supports the advertised speeds. Double-check your motherboard’s specifications before purchasing.
- RGB Lighting (Optional): For those who prioritize aesthetics, many RAM kits come equipped with RGB lighting that can be synchronized with other components for a dazzling visual effect.
Top 7 DDR4 RAM Picks for 2024 Gamers
Now, let’s explore some of the best DDR4 RAM options available in 2024, categorized based on your priorities:
1. Best Overall DDR4 RAM: Team Group T-Force Xtreem ARGB (16GB DDR4-3600MHz)
The Team Group T-Force Xtreem ARGB strikes a fantastic balance between performance, affordability, and aesthetics. This 16GB DDR4-3600MHz kit offers excellent speeds for smooth gameplay and multitasking. The included addressable RGB lighting adds a customizable touch to your build, making it a great all-rounder for budget-conscious gamers who want a bit of flair.
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- 3600MHz speed offers good performance for most games
- Addressable RGB lighting for customization
Cons:
- Not the highest capacity or speed option
- May not be ideal for heavily demanding games or multitasking
2. Best Budget DDR4 RAM: Corsair Vengeance LPX (16GB DDR4-3200MHz)
The Corsair Vengeance LPX is a reliable and affordable option for budget-minded gamers. This 16GB DDR4-3200MHz kit provides a solid performance boost over standard RAM and is compatible with a wide range of motherboards. The low-profile heat spreader makes it ideal for compact builds where space is a concern.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Compatible with most motherboards
- Low-profile design for compact builds
Cons:
- Lower speed compared to other options
- Lacks RGB lighting
3. Best High-Capacity DDR4 RAM: Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB (32GB DDR4-3200MHz)
Gamers who demand a lot of memory for multitasking and future-proofing can rejoice with the Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB. This 32GB DDR4-3200MHz kit provides ample headroom for running demanding games alongside other applications. The included RGB lighting boasts impressive customization options, making it a great choice for those who prioritize aesthetics.
Pros:
- Generous 32GB capacity for multitasking and future-proofing
- Customizable RGB lighting
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Lower speed compared to some other options (but still sufficient for most games)
4. Best DDR4 RAM for Overclocking: G.Skill Trident Z Neo (16GB DDR4-3600MHz CL16)
Enthusiasts who enjoy pushing their hardware to the limit will appreciate the G.Skill Trident Z Neo. This 16GB DDR4-3600MHz CL16 kit boasts tight timings and high speeds, making it a great platform for overclocking. The sleek design complements various builds, and the included heat spreaders ensure optimal cooling during intense overclocking sessions.
Pros:
- Tight CL16 timings for potential performance gains through overclocking
- High base speed of 3600MHz
Cons:
- Overclocking requires knowledge and can be risky
- Slightly higher price compared to some non-overclocking options
Best Value for Content Creators: G.Skill Ripjaws V Series (32GB DDR4-3600MHz)
Content creators who juggle gaming, editing, and multitasking will appreciate the G.Skill Ripjaws V Series. This 32GB DDR4-3600MHz kit offers a fantastic balance of capacity and speed, allowing for smooth performance in both gaming and demanding creative applications. The sleek design complements various builds, and the competitive price makes it a great value choice.
Pros:
- Ample 32GB capacity for multitasking and content creation
- Reliable 3600MHz speed for smooth performance
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Lacks fancy features like RGB lighting
- May not be the absolute fastest option
6. Best DDR4 RAM for Pure Speed: Crucial Ballistix MAX RGB (32GB DDR4-4400MHz)
Gamers who crave the absolute best possible performance can look towards the Crucial Ballistix MAX RGB. This 32GB DDR4-4400MHz kit boasts blazing-fast speeds that can potentially unlock higher frame rates in demanding games. The included RGB lighting adds a vibrant touch, making it a great choice for those who prioritize raw speed and aesthetics.
Pros:
- Extremely fast DDR4-4400MHz speed for top-tier performance
- Customizable RGB lighting
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to most options
- May require a compatible motherboard that supports such high speeds
7. Best No-Nonsense DDR4 RAM: Crucial DDR4 Pro (16GB DDR4-3200MHz)
For gamers who prioritize reliability and simplicity, the Crucial DDR4 Pro is a fantastic choice. This 16GB DDR4-3200MHz kit offers stable performance at a competitive price point. It lacks fancy RGB lighting or super-high speeds, but it delivers the consistent performance you can rely on for smooth gameplay. The sleek design complements various builds, and the reliable Micron components ensure long-lasting operation.
Pros:
- An affordable and reliable option for stable performance
- No unnecessary frills like RGB lighting
- Reputable brand known for quality components
Cons:
- Lacks RGB lighting for those who prefer a flashy look
- Lower speed compared to some other options, but still sufficient for most games
DDR4 RAM for Gaming PCs in 2024: Specification Table
| RAM Name | RAM Capacity (GB) | Speed (MHz) | CAS Latency (CL) | RGB Lighting | Best For | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Team Group T-Force Xtreem ARGB | 16 | 3600 | 18 | Yes (Addressable) | Overall Performance & Aesthetics | $80 – $100 |
| Corsair Vengeance LPX | 16 | 3200 | 16 | No | Budget & Compact Builds | $60 – $80 |
| Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB | 32 | 3200 | 16 | Yes (Customizable) | High Capacity & Aesthetics | $120 – $150 |
| G.Skill Trident Z Neo | 16 | 3600 | 16 | Yes | Overclocking Enthusiasts | $100 – $120 |
| G.Skill Ripjaws V Series | 32 | 3600 | 16 | No | Content Creators & Value | $100 – $120 |
| Crucial Ballistix MAX RGB | 32 | 4400 | 18 | Yes | Pure Speed & Aesthetics | $150 – $180 |
| Crucial DDR4 Pro | 16 | 3200 | 16 | No | Reliability & Affordability | $50 – $70 |
Considering DDR5 RAM?
While DDR4 remains a fantastic choice for most gamers in 2024, DDR5 technology is slowly becoming more mainstream. DDR5 offers even faster speeds and lower latencies, potentially leading to smoother gameplay and improved performance in demanding tasks. However, DDR5 RAM is currently more expensive and requires a compatible motherboard with a newer chipset.
Here are some factors to consider when deciding between DDR4 and DDR5:
- Budget: DDR4 is currently more affordable than DDR5.
- Motherboard Compatibility: Ensure your motherboard supports DDR5 if you choose that route.
- Future-Proofing: DDR5 offers better futureproofing potential as the technology matures.
Ultimately, the choice between DDR4 and DDR5 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re building a high-end system and want the absolute best performance, DDR5 might be worth considering. However, DDR4 remains a solid and cost-effective option for most gamers in 2024.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right DDR4 RAM for your gaming PC depends on your individual needs and budget. Consider factors like the capacity you require for multitasking, the speed your motherboard supports, and whether aesthetics like RGB lighting are important to you.
This list provides a variety of options to cater to different preferences. Whether you’re a budget-conscious gamer seeking a reliable upgrade, an enthusiast looking to push performance limits, or simply want a solid no-nonsense option, there’s a perfect DDR4 RAM kit waiting to power your next gaming adventure.
Additional Tips:
- Always check your motherboard’s Qualified Vendor List (QVL) to ensure compatibility with your chosen RAM kit.
- Installing RAM is a relatively simple process, but consult your motherboard manual for specific instructions.
- When considering overclocking, remember it requires some technical knowledge and can be risky if not done correctly.
We hope this guide helps you find the best DDR4 RAM to elevate your gaming experience!
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