Intel Mid-Range Gaming Build: RAM
While all of the components we are selecting here today are what we would go with, and priced from vendors we trust, it is always a good idea to shop around as deals on these, or other good options, pop up from other reliable vendors all the time. With that said, let’s dive right into the next order of business.
RAM
G.Skill Sniper X Series 16GB (F4-3400C16D-16GSXW) $104.99
60 FPS
- Samsung B-die
- Good Overclocking Potential
- No RGB
- On Vendor Qualified Hardware List For Our Motherboard
30 FPS
- Not Quite As Speedy As Other Options Out Of The Box
- No RGB
- Appearance Is Subjective
RAM Alternate
G.Skill Trident Z RGB V Series 16GB (F4-3600C18D-16GTZRX) $91.99
60 FPS
- Great Balance Of Speed And Price
- On Vendor Qualified Hardware List For Our Motherboard
- RGB For Those That Want It
30 FPS
- Not Quite As Overclocking Friendly As Other Options
- Mixed Reports On Samsung B-die And Hynix Chips
- RGB For Those That Don’t Want It
Back in the bad old days, RAM compatibility was a nightmare. Then, for a while, things smoothed out a good bit (unless you had a DFI board). With the advent of AMD’s Ryzen series of chips, compatibility didn’t become so much of an issue, as a preference. Samsung B-die chips proved to be the go-to option and, even though we are looking at an Intel-based system today, our pick for memory reflects that quality Samsung is known for.
The G.Skill Sniper X Series F4-3400C16D-16GSXW is widely reported as having Samsung B-die chips and provides you with excellent overclocking potential. The speeds seen here are a bit lower than some other options, but this is RAM that almost screams not to be left at stock settings. So, take it for a spin and push the limits; we think you will be pleasantly surprised.
If you are less likely to be overclocking then stepping back to the G.Skill Trident Z RGB V Series F4-3600C18D-16GTZRX will save you a few dollars, but it will still give you very good performance. B-Die status is not guaranteed on these as some people report B-dies with these while others report various Hynix chips. The speeds seen here are about bang on the more expensive option but overclocking these seems to be a bit less fruitful. On top of that, the bling factor is not completely gone as this is from the Trident Z RGB line so you still get that very distinct light bar across the top for your light show needs.