Compatible Ram for Sabertooth z77

The QVL is just a subset of available memory that Asus has had time to test. It is by no means meant to be exhaustive.

So long as you use standard ram that conforms to the specifications outlined by the MB manufacturer, you will be fine.

Here's a good set for you:
Mushkin Enhanced Silverline 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory Model 997002
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168...

My only recommendation about shopping outside the QVL is to get kits or 2 or 4 sticks and not try to match 2 x 2 stick kits.

While I have done it for years, but recently have been seeing more and more problems with doing so. I have even run into a bit of it.

The QVL for some boards will also list sets of 2 that can be used, but should not be used as 2 kits(2 kits to make 4 sticks). So again, if you want 16gigs, get a 16gig kit and not 2 x 8 gig kits.

Also many users are recommending staying with 1.5 volt memory. I can not argue that pushing less voltage is good for the cpu memory controller.

I know my first gen i5/i7 systems all have 1.65 volt ram and run fine.

my 2600K has 1.65 volt memory that will run fine @ 1.35  . I have also just picked up some newer G-skill memory rated at 1600 and and testing it at just 1333 on 1.35 volts.