I'm building my first PC using mostly used parts to save some cash, but I hit a wall with the RAM prices. I've checked around, and a new 32GB DDR4 kit is going for about $160, but there aren't any local options on the market. I'm wondering if I can settle for lesser RAM to get my build up and running or if I should just fork out the cash. With the specs I have, should I opt for available 32GB of lower-end RAM or 16GB of higher-quality RAM? My current build includes a Ryzen 7 5800xt, an Intel Arc A770 16GB, and a Micron 3500 1TB, and it's frustrating that regular 16GB RAM costs more than a GPU with the same VRAM. What are my best options here?
8 Answers
I saw 16GB kits at Walmart going for under $80 on clearance! You might find something similar if you look around.
Here's a pro tip: you could buy some slower RAM now. A lot of RAM can be overclocked, and performance differences aren't as drastic as you might think. Just remember, CPU and GPU are way more crucial for performance than RAM speed.
You might also find cheap RAM if someone is just trying to get rid of it quickly. The market isn't friendly right now, but sometimes you can score a deal if you're persistent!
I’d recommend waiting a bit longer. Prices fluctuate, and it seems like they’re on the way down. No one can predict exactly when, but if you keep an eye on market trends, you might catch a better deal in the coming months.
Consider looking for used 16GB kits on eBay for around $70-80. If your focus is gaming, most titles will perform fine with 16GB, but check if any specific software or games you want require more. Personally, I’d aim to save up for a 32GB kit when prices drop more, so you don’t have to upgrade again later for more memory.
Honestly, get whatever works for you right now. The prices seem to have leveled off, but I don't expect them to get better anytime soon. I grabbed 64GB of DDR5 for $300 and I felt like it was a good deal at that point. Don’t second guess your needs!
We really can't predict market shifts, though! Just get what you can while it's available.
Or you could just take the plunge now. I was in the same situation and ended up buying 32GB for $350 last week. It felt steep at the time, but I’m thankful I did it now because prices might not drop as much as we'd hope.
Ouch! Was that for DDR5?
You know, in a few months when you're gaming and enjoying your rig, that extra $50 you could save will hardly matter. Right now it feels like a big deal, but it’s really just a drop in the bucket in the long run. Honestly, you might as well grab what you really want and get it over with instead of stalling.
That's a solid perspective. Just get what makes you happy!
Has anyone else tried this out? How did it work for you?