Introduction
With AMD about to launch its next-generation platform, supporting DDR5, and Intel already supporting DDR5 now on its 12th Gen Alder Lake platform, there is no better time than to look into DDR5 memory. Prices are coming down fast, and speeds are going up. Today we’re taking a look at CORSAIR’s VENGEANCE 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MHz C16 memory kit (CMH32GX5M2D6000C36) to see how it performs on our Intel 12th Gen Alder Lake test bed and whether it will help level up your gaming rig beyond stock DDR5 speeds.
When it comes to computer peripherals, CORSAIR is a well-known name among computer enthusiasts. CORSAIR’s initial claim to fame was in the memory space but has since expanded to include cooling, cases, power supplies, fans, SSDs, and other accessories in its product line.
The specific kit that we are looking at today is the 2x16GB 6000MHz C36 timing flavor of the VENGEANCE line which is the middle of the pack of offerings. This specific kit of CORSAIR’s VENGEANCE DDR5 memory spans speeds from 5200MHz to 6600MHz, 16 and 32GB module sizes, and varying CAS timings of 32 up to 40. We’re seeing it available from CORSAIR direct at $249.99.
CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR5 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MHz Memory
The CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR5 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MHz Memory kit comes in a bright yellow box that shows off the RGB capabilities of the memory and indicates the 32GB size, 2x16GB kit, and 6000MHz speed. It states that it is Intel XMP 3.0 Ready and compatible with CORSAIR’s iCUE platform.
Flipping the box over, we see some marketing speak about the kit in several languages and in mice type at the bottom that the kit carries a limited lifetime warranty. Of note, the only thing on the packaging indicating the timings of the memory is the part number on the UPC sticker which ends in C36.
Inside the packaging, we found two 16GB modules labeled with the part number CMH32GX5M2D6000C36. The modules are clad in a black solid aluminum heat spreader which is decorated by a pattern of triangles of varying sizes and a brushed aluminum cut out with the “VENGEANCE” markings. The top of the memory is a translucent white color with the CORSAIR sails icon in the middle. The PCBs are custom-performance made.
The kits sport hand-sorted tightly-screened Samsung memory modules that have base timings of PC5-38400 (4800MHz) at 40-40-40-77 using 1.1V. Their tested (and marketed) JDEC frequency is PC5-48000 (6000MHz) at timings of 36-36-36-76 at 1.35V. They are equipped with a thermal sensor, on-die ECC, and support for RGB Sync with CORSAIR iCUE software. The RGB supports a dynamic ten-zone RGB lighting with individually addressable RGB LEDs per module encased in a light bar. Also uniquely, these modules support CORSAIR onboard voltage regulation via iCUE software to control for fine-tuned output for more stable overclocking.
From a sizing perspective, the CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR5 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MHz Memory measures in at 1.75” in height, which is shorter than the Corsair Dominator series that we’ve been working with on the test bench (that weights in at 2.25”). If you’re going with a large tower air cooler, these modules will give you a bit more clearance than other larger modules.