I'm building a high-performance video editing rig and need advice on RAM. Is it better to use 24GB RAM sticks or stick with 32GB? I've noticed that with super fast G.Skill options (like 8000+ speeds), they only offer 24GB sticks. I also want to know if the RAM speed makes a significant difference; should I aim for 7600MHz or go higher to 8400MHz? My editing will involve programs like Firefox, DaVinci Resolve, and Affinity Suite running simultaneously. I'm considering a setup around top-tier components like the 5090 and 7950 or equivalent 9000 series. Any insights would be valuable, especially on RAM sizes like 64-128GB.
4 Answers
Faster RAM does provide some benefits, but in video editing, it's less critical than you might think. The size is far more important. Being able to load your video files into RAM matters more than how fast it can read them. Once you start rendering, the CPU and GPU will take over. A few seconds in speed may not make a big difference in the long run, so focus on getting enough RAM.
If you’re going for high RAM, consider using two 48GB sticks instead of four 16GB sticks. Using four sticks can limit your speed considerably, and you'd be better off with more stable dual-rank RAM.
For video editing, you should prioritize stability and capacity over chasing the highest RAM speeds. It's unlikely your AM5 system will run at ultra-high speeds effectively, and faster RAM can lead to system instability. I recommend going for 6000MHz CL30 or 6400MHz CL32 as a safe bet for performance without the headaches of overclocking.
What options would you suggest for someone who also needs reliability for work? I can't afford a system failure, especially after Intel's issues from two years ago.
How about recommending brands that are known for stability? I’d like to ensure I’m getting solid RAM that won't let me down.
Getting 8000MT/s RAM is possible, but it requires some luck and adjustments in settings. Unless you need that bandwidth specifically, it’s often better to stick with 6000MT/s for ease of use and stability. 8400MT/s is a bit ambitious for most setups.
I've found that tinkering with RAM settings can be tricky. Sometimes, simplicity is key!
I've heard that dual-rank sticks can perform better; is that true for video editing?