I'm currently using 16GB of DDR4 RAM (4x8GB sticks) running at 2400MHz, which I've overclocked to 2666MHz. I'm considering upgrading to 32GB of faster 4000MHz RAM. Do you think this upgrade will significantly improve my gaming experience, or should I hold off and save up for a new motherboard and DDR5 RAM in the next few years? Also, I noticed that my system uses about 4-5GB of memory just by running Windows without any heavy tasks. For context, I'm using HyperX Kingston Fury RAM, which is rated for overclocks up to 3466MHz, but I've encountered instability when trying to push it beyond 2666MHz. My other specs include an i5 13600k CPU, an Rx 9700 XT GPU with 16GB VRAM, and I'm on Windows 11.
4 Answers
You might be struggling with your RAM speeds due to the high clock on your i5 13600K. Sometimes, overclocking the CPU can make RAM overclocking tricky. Rather than just upgrading RAM, consider selling your current sticks and buying a reliable 32GB kit like the G.Skill Ripjaws V 3200MHz. You'll find it's easier to manage stability with 2 sticks instead of 4, especially if you're overclocking.
Honestly, if your GPU is performing well right now, I’d rather suggest putting funds towards a better graphics card instead of just RAM. Your current setup should handle gaming for a bit, so unless you're running into memory issues, a GPU upgrade could give you a way bigger performance boost!
If you're looking for more performance, upgrading to 32GB is a good idea, especially for today's games, which can use more memory. I'd suggest aiming for DDR4 RAM around 3200MHz or 3600MHz since the performance gains drop off after those speeds. Just choose whatever is cheaper. Plus, having 32GB might help future-proof your system a bit more!
Just to clarify, you’re already at 32GB with 4x8GB. Going from 2400MHz to something like 3600MHz could bring performance improvements, especially in intensive games and rendering apps. But the leap from 16GB to 32GB might not have a huge impact unless you’re hitting those memory limits in gaming. Focus on getting faster speeds instead!
I thought my RX 9700 XT was still good enough. Do you really think a new GPU would make that much of a difference right now?