The choice of RAM memory is one of the crucial points when configuring our equipment. The fact of not choosing the right memory can mean a loss of performance or find that due to the capabilities of our motherboard we cannot take advantage of the overclock of certain DIMM modules. That is why we have thought to create a list with the best RAM memories for Intel.
If you have considered building a gaming PC based on an eleventh generation Intel CPU or the new Intel Core 12 , then you will have reached the point where you will have to consider what type of RAM memory to install and at what speed to do it. This is important due to the fact that what we are looking for is not only the maximum performance of our system, but also the balance between the performance that we can obtain and the money that we are going to spend.
RAM Considerations on Intel CPUs
With the renewal of the memory controller for DDR4 in the Intel Core 11 and the addition of support for DDR5 in the twelfth generation, we find that the rules regarding performance in the case of Intel CPUs have changed slightly compared to previous generations. . The most fundamental change is the Gear, which is based on supporting memory modules at a higher speed than the memory controller allows in exchange for working at a portion of the speed of RAM.
If, for example, we have that our processor supports DDR4 memory up to a speed of up to 3,200 MHz, then all memory connected to the processor with a speed equal to or less than that speed will go at the same speed at both ends. Instead, if we only exceed that limit speed by a single clock cycle, then the speed of the CPU will be lowered to half that of the RAM and it will enter Gear 2 mode.
The reason why this happens is due to a very simple fact: one of the parts that consumes the most energy and, therefore, releases the most heat is the interface between the processor and the memory, so to support high transfers it is necessary to reduce the clock speed of the interface from the CPU.
RAM in overclock mode
It must be taken into account that one thing is the transfer speed of the memory controller, which it can maintain 100% of the time, and the other is the overclock speed that it can maintain at specific moments, this limit being set by the specifications of the memory module itself and the motherboard. Therefore, make sure first of all if the chosen chipset supports memory overclocking and the speeds at which the RAM works, since Intel limits precisely because of this component, unlike what AMD does, and not because of IMC.
In the case of DDR5 it is not a problem, since being a type of RAM that has recently appeared, most memory modules have a base transfer speed of 4,800 MHz. In contrast, with DDR4 we have modules available at less than 3,200 MHz whose latency times are better, but in bandwidth they are much worse. So if you are going to go for DDR4, rule out any RAM option at less than that speed.
Keep in mind that even if a memory module goes to 4,800 MHz or 6,000 MHz, that nomenclature only guarantees that the sticks work correctly, but it does not imply that the IMC can support them, and if it did (4,800 MHz in DDR5 it would because it is the minimum of the standard) it would be necessary to see with what voltage, because it is sure to be triggered and advanced knowledge is required to stabilize it, without forgetting the degradation of the IMC itself, which is high.
Which RAM to choose for your Intel CPU?
At the time of writing this article, DDR5 is a novelty with a high demand that has been quickly sold out and is priced well above DDR4. This is normal for any type of memory that is new, but due to the differences in the specification of both types of memory, choosing one type or the other means choosing a type of motherboard, at least in the event that you plan to buy an Intel Core 12. If you prefer the previous generation instead, your choices on memory type come down to DDR4.
CORSAIR Vengeance RGB Pro, the best option
As an example of DDR4 with overclock support we have the CORSAIR Vengeance RGB Pro with an overclock speed of up to 4,400 MHz speed. So if you have in mind to build a gaming PC with an eleventh or twelfth generation Intel Core based on DDR4 then this is your best option in terms of performance.
It also becomes our first option and we know that it may surprise you due to the fact that it is not DDR5 memory, but given the high price of this type of RAM today when it comes to building a PC and the scarcity and overprice of the Dual Fifth generation Data Rate can’t be right now.
Crucial Ballistix 3,200MHz, DDR4 standard
This Crucial memory module is encased in anodized aluminum to prevent memory overheating. Its transfer speed is 3,200 MHz , so it will work in Gear 1 mode in both generations of processors and where it stands out the most is its CAS latency of 16 cycles.
They are reliable modules, relatively fast, above all affordable and logically available on the market in various options, with or without RGB for example, which is why they occupy second place.
Kingston Value RAM, DDR5 without highlights and shadows
We have chosen Kingston’s Value RAM as an example of a standard module without support for overclocking and that strictly follows all JEDEC regulations. It is, therefore, a completely standard type of module without support for overclocking and is ideal for mounting on any type of motherboard with support for DDR5 . So it is not the best that you can get for gaming, but it is the one that you can install on any Intel motherboard that supports this type of memory.
G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB: fast but expensive
We are facing the most top type of RAM that you can find for your Intel Core 12 with the ability to reach a speed of up to 6,000 MHz and a CAS latency of 36 , remember that the usual thing in DDR5 is that it is 40 Therefore, we not only have a RAM capable of transmitting a large amount of data, but also of making its communication with the processor in each request faster than average.
It is, therefore, a type of RAM that will get the most out of your Intel Core 12, yes, you will have been able to observe how the price at the time of writing this article is extremely high. This makes us not recommend it for our input readers, since this is influenced by the scarcity of components. It is possible that you are reading these lines right now and the price has dropped to normal.
If you find the G.SKILL Trident Z5 at a competitive price then go for it, the performance increase for your Intel Core 12 will be noticeable (if you have a board for such type of memory, of course), but for the At the moment it becomes our least recommended option.
