Uncertain about ram compatability

klunt

Honorable
Sep 15, 2013
21
0
10,510
Okay so I've pretty much got my build done, but I just wanted to double check to make sure I understand the RAM.

Looking to get 16GB (2x8GB) RAM, and will be going on this mobo: http://www.newegg.ca/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813157378

I understand that 1866 would down-clock and run at 1600 on that particular MoBo. What I don't understand is if that is at all beneficial to the performance? I know that it would essentially extend the life span since the RAM is running at a lower frequency than it is capable of. Are there any other benefits?

Second uncertainty is regarding the fact that 1866 RAM uses PC3 14900. What exactly does that mean?

I guess since I'm here and posted that MoBo, I'll take any comments on whether its an alright choice or not.

Thanks!
 
Solution
DDR3 1600/8 or 9 is plenty, 1866 would be of no real benefit, and would indeed run at 1600 (PC3 14900 is basically just another designator for 1866 sticks and indicates that the sticks can run 14,900 MT/s (basically MB a second)...what you can do is compare prices, if wanting performance look for 1600 with a CL of 8 or look for 1866 with a CL of ( which can run at 1600/8

Tradesman1

Legenda in Aeternum
DDR3 1600/8 or 9 is plenty, 1866 would be of no real benefit, and would indeed run at 1600 (PC3 14900 is basically just another designator for 1866 sticks and indicates that the sticks can run 14,900 MT/s (basically MB a second)...what you can do is compare prices, if wanting performance look for 1600 with a CL of 8 or look for 1866 with a CL of ( which can run at 1600/8
 
Solution