I'm planning to upgrade my RAM and I have a 7th generation Intel CPU, which supports a maximum of 2400 MHz. I'm torn between getting the 2666 MHz RAM that has a lower CAS latency of 15 and the 2400 MHz RAM that has a higher CAS latency of 17. Will the lower CL15 RAM perform better, or should I stick with the 2400 MHz that won't be downclocked? Is the performance difference negligible? Thanks for your insights!
5 Answers
Just to throw it out there, since your system is a bit older, the value of this upgrade is questionable. Perhaps go for the cheapest RAM available and save your cash for a future build instead!
The lower CAS latency (CL15) is usually better for performance. But since your CPU maxes out at 2400 MHz, the 2666 MHz might not provide a significant advantage since it will be downclocked. If price isn't a huge difference, I'd lean towards the CL15 for that slight edge in speed.
You can usually ignore Intel's official specs on memory. The motherboard will give you a better idea of what's supported. I bet the 2666 CL15 should work fine with a 7th gen CPU. If they’re the same price, I’d go for the lower latency one but don’t overpay for this small performance gain.
Honestly, I think it’s pretty negligible. For locked CPUs like yours, the memory controller typically has limitations, and you might not notice a real-world difference between the two. If you're just upgrading for a bit of a boost, consider whether the cost difference is worth it.
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