Okay to run DDR4 with MHz that exceeds CPU rating?

erest8

Commendable
Aug 16, 2016
15
0
1,510
Hello,
I'm building my first computer and plan to put an i7-6900k into it. It is rated to handle 2400MHz DDR4. However, I am finding DDR4 2666MHz and DDR 3000 MHz that is considerable less expensive. I'm guessing a function of demand. Incidentally, my MB is rated to handle 3333MHz. I'm wondering if I can install the DDR4 with a higher clock speed than the 2400MHz CPU and not damage the CPU? Will the system simply be bottlenecked at 2400MHz and no damage done? I'd like to save the $100 or so. Thank you!
 
Solution


DDR literally means double data rate. The data rate is what the manufacturers state, like 3000MHz, but the actual clock is only half that at 1500.

If 3000 is cheaper than any 2400 you can get, go for it, it won't hurt performance or your chip

erest8

Commendable
Aug 16, 2016
15
0
1,510
So this DDR is only 1500 MHz? Corsair Vengeance LPX 128GB DDR4 DRAM 3000MHz C16 Memory Kit

It is actually cheaper than the 2400MHz version by the same manufacturer.
 


DDR literally means double data rate. The data rate is what the manufacturers state, like 3000MHz, but the actual clock is only half that at 1500.

If 3000 is cheaper than any 2400 you can get, go for it, it won't hurt performance or your chip
 
Solution