DDR3, 1333 or 1600?

[cybertoad]

I'm putting together a new system, but need some advice on RAM. I will be using an I5-2500k processor with a Z68

motherboard. It's my understanding that Sandy Bridge is optmized to work with 1333 RAM, but I see a lot of posts stating

that you should use 1600 RAM. I picked up the following from Microcenter: Kingston HyperX blu 8GB DDR3-1333 (PC3-10600)

CL9 Dual Channel Desktop Memory Kit (Two 4GB Memory Modules). Should I consider returning them for the 1600

equivelant? If it won't make a huge difference, then I'll keep them. I only paid $14.99 for them. ($29.99 on sale plus I had a

$15 discount for being a prefered customer.) If it matters, I am considering the following motherboards: ASRock Z68

Extreme4 Gen3 or the Asus p8z68-v pro/gen3.

 

[nikorr]

Why don't u post link, so we can see the exact stick?

Make sure its 1.5V, preferably with XMP profile.

 

[cybertoad]

Here's the link: http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0360526

Here's the specs:

Memory Type DDR3

Number of Modules 2

Memory Capacity 8GB (2 x 4GB)

Memory Speed DDR3-1333 (PC3-10600)

Voltage 1.5 Volts

CAS Latency 9

Latency 9-9-9-27

Buffered/Unbuffered Unbuffered

Error Correction Code Non-ECC

Memory Slot 240-pin DIMM


The 1600 version has a voltage of 1.65 Volts

http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0360527

 

[sharkbyte5150]

This is a better choice from that site, optimized to run on Sandy Bridge platform and Intel XMP ready.
http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0354611

Unless you have a problem with NewEgg, you won't find a better deal than this RAM, same specs.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231428

 

[nikorr]

Here's the link: http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0360526

Here's the specs:

Memory Type DDR3

Number of Modules 2

Memory Capacity 8GB (2 x 4GB)

Memory Speed DDR3-1333 (PC3-10600)

Voltage 1.5 Volts

CAS Latency 9

Latency 9-9-9-27

Buffered/Unbuffered Unbuffered

Error Correction Code Non-ECC

Memory Slot 240-pin DIMM


The 1600 version has a voltage of 1.65 Volts

http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0360527

That one is no good, as it is voiding your CPU warranty @ 1.65V

 

[nikorr]

I recommend CORSAIR Vengeance 99% of the time, quality RAM and low profile with XMP profile. And if u will get an aftermarket CPU cooler, low profile is the worry free remedy with perfect fit with any large cooler.
CORSAIR Vengeance 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600

http://www.microcenter.com/single_product_results.phtml?product_id=0366817http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820233196
Vengeance Low Profile heat spreaders have a reduced height of 1.03" (26.25mm). They're designed for high-performance systems with extra-large CPU coolers, small form factor system builds, or any other space-constrained application where standard Vengeance memory might not fit.

 

[nikorr]

And for the mobo, get the Asus p8z68-v pro/gen3.

Better overclocker and 1 year longer warranty.

 

[sharkbyte5150]

As you can see in my specs, I definitely agree with that!

 

[cybertoad]

Best answer selected by cybertoad.

 

[nikorr]

Good luck cybertoad!

 

[nikorr]

This topic has been closed by Nikorr