Whether you are buying a new gaming PC or upgrading your current one, it is highly important to ensure that you have powerful hardware for optimum gaming performance. Even though the CPU and GPU are the major components affecting your gaming performance, you should also consider getting one of the best RAM for gaming stated down below for perfect performance thanks to these features:
- Capacity: One of the most important things to keep in mind while buying RAM for your PCs is the total capacity offered by it. Even though 16 GB is decent enough for gaming, having 32 GB of RAM results in a future-proof gaming PC that can be used for heavy multitasking as well as high-performance PC gaming.
- Speed: Even if you go with a total of 32 GB RAM for your gaming PC, you may not get the best gaming performance if you do not have fast memory. This can be ensured by checking the speed rating of your RAM as 3600 MHz RAM is going to offer better performance than 3200 MHz RAM.
- RAM Kit: Other than the capacity of the RAM that you are getting, you should also check the size of the RAM kit or the total number of RAM sticks included in the box. Since you need two RAM sticks for a dual-channel memory setup, most RAM for gaming are available as either 2 RAM sticks or 4 RAM sticks in total where you can choose either as per your future upgrade plans.
Apart from these factors, there is more that you should know before buying RAM for gaming PCs. Hence, the various memory options stated here also have their specifications and details along with a complete “Buying guide”.
Best RAM for Gaming Table
| Best RAM for Gaming | Capacity | Speed | Type | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corsair RGB Pro RAM for Gaming | 32GB | 3600 MHz | DDR4 SDRAM | Check On Amazon |
| Crucial RAM for Gaming | 16 GB | 5100 MHz | DDR4 SDRAM | Check On Amazon |
| TEAMGROUP RAM for Gaming | 32GB | 3600 MHz | DDR4 SDRAM | Check On Amazon |
| Corsair RAM for Gaming | 32GB | 3200 MHz | DDR4 SDRAM | Check On Amazon |
| G.SKILL RAM for Gaming | 16GB | 3200 MHz | DDR4 SDRAM | Check On Amazon |
| OLOy RAM for Gaming | 16GB | 3000 MHz | DDR4 SDRAM | Check On Amazon |
| Corsair Platinum RAM for Gaming | 32GB | 3600 MHz | DDR4 DIMM | Check On Amazon |
| TEAMGROUP T-Force Delta RAM for Gaming | 32GB | 3600 MHz | DDR4 DIMM | Check On Amazon |
| Silicon Power Value RAM for Gaming | 32 GB | 3200 MHz | DDR4 SDRAM | Check On Amazon |
| PNY XLR8 RAM for Gaming | 32 GB | 3200 MHz | DDR4 SDRAM | Check On Amazon |
10 Best RAM for Gaming: Reviews
1. Corsair RGB Pro RAM for Gaming
Corsair is one of the most popular brands out there when you are looking for RAM modules as it offers a wide range of modules including high-end RGB ones stated here.
The Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro RAM for gaming comes at the 1st position of this list since it can be a great pick if you want aesthetics along with decent performance. Starting with its capacity, this is a 32 GB RAM kit that includes two 16 GB RAM modules. Both of these sticks come with RGB lighting that can be easily controlled using the iCUE software on both AMD and Intel motherboards.
Since these RAM sticks have a 3600 MHz speed rating combined with a CL18 CAS latency rating, you can expect excellent performance from it. To get even more out of it, you can also overclock these memory sticks as they support XMP 2.0 which is always great to have. Being a high-end offering from Corsair, these also include a lifetime warranty making these premium RAM sticks great for long-term usage.
Best Features:
- Total RAM capacity of 32 GB
- Includes 2 RAM sticks of 16 GB each
- Rated speed of 3600 MHz
- Comes with a lifetime warranty period
Pros:
- Offers RGB lighting
- Supports both AMD and Intel motherboard
- Great for overclocking along with XMP 2.0
Cons:
- A bit on the pricey side
2. Crucial RAM for Gaming
Ideal for extreme overclocking enthusiasts, the Crucial Ballistix Max DDR4 RAM offers exceptional performance enhancements. This 16GB kit boasts a remarkable 5100 MHz speed that significantly improves gameplay, system responsiveness, and data processing. It is compatible with the latest AMD and Intel motherboards, ensuring it can handle the most demanding tasks.
The RAM features a sleek matte black aluminum heat spreader that effectively dissipates heat and adds a stylish touch to your setup. It includes a sensor that monitors real-time temperature, maintaining optimal performance during intense gaming sessions. With XMP 2.0 support, users can easily achieve faster speeds, and advanced enthusiasts can tailor performance settings for specific needs.
Easy to install, this RAM integrates smoothly into existing systems and is compatible with large CPU coolers, facilitating hassle-free upgrades. Whether gaming, creating content, or engaging in heavy computing tasks, the Crucial Ballistix Max DDR4 RAM delivers the speed, reliability, and quality needed to excel.
Best Features:
- Total RAM capacity of 16 GB for multitasking and system responsiveness
- Includes 2 RAM sticks of 8GB each
- Rated memory speed of 5100 MHz
- Comes with a warranty period of 10 years
- Supports easy and reliable overclocking with XMP 2.0.
Pros:
- Optimized for extreme performance with 5100 MHz memory speed.
- Advanced heat management with a high-quality aluminum heat spreader.
- Integrated temperature monitoring for enhanced overclocking capability.
- Broad compatibility with the latest AMD and Intel platforms.
- Exceptional speed and responsiveness boost gaming and multitasking.
- The sleek design enhances the visual appeal of your gaming setup.
- Easy to install, even for users without extensive hardware experience.
- Reliable performance backed by a rigorous testing regime.
Cons:
- Premium price points may not fit all budgets.
- Limited warranty compared to against life-time offered by other brands.
3. TEAMGROUP RAM for Gaming
While Teamgroup may not be as popular as other RAM brands, it is certainly a reputable one that you can consider if you are looking to buy RAM for your gaming PC.
This Teamgroup T-Force Vulcan Z RAM for gaming comes at the 3rd position of this article because you can also consider this if you wish to get something value for money without compromising on performance. Just like most other RAM for gaming computers available out there, this one also has 32 GB capacity thanks to its kit size of two 16 GB modules. While the heatsink looks quite basic, it certainly cools the RAM modules using the pre-applied high thermal conductive adhesive.
However, unlike what you would expect from a value-for-money RAM kit, it features quite a high memory speed of up to 3600 MHz. When combined with its CAS latency of CL18 and XMP 2.0 support, you can get excellent
Since these RAM sticks have a 3600 MHz speed rating combined along with a CL18 CAS latency rating, you can expect excellent performance from it. To get even more out of it, you can also overclock these memory sticks as they support XMP 2.0 which is always great to have. Being a high-end offering from Corsair, these also include a lifetime warranty making these premium RAM sticks great for long-term usage.
Best Features:
- Total RAM capacity of 32 GB
- Includes 2 RAM sticks of 16 GB each
- Rated speed of 3600 MHz
- Comes with a lifetime warranty period
Pros:
- Offers RGB lighting
- Supports both AMD and Intel motherboard
- Great for overclocking along with XMP 2.0
Cons:
- A bit on the pricey side
4. Corsair RAM for Gaming
Corsair also offers comparatively cheaper RAM kits that offer similar performance but at a lower price at the expense of some optional features like lighting and customisations.
The Corsair Vengeance LPX RAM is one of the most popular entry-level RAM kits offered by Corsair. Before taking a look at its different performance numbers, you will be glad to know that you get 32 GB of total memory capacity for heavy multitasking. Since it includes dual 16 GB RAM modules, you also get dual-channel support from it. Talking about support, you, unfortunately, do not get RGB lighting support with this RAM which can be an issue for many.
Moving over to the performance numbers of this RAM kit, it is rated at a speed of 3200 MHz which is combined with a fairly low CAS latency of CL16 for decent gaming performance. Another great thing about this RAM kit is that it is quite low profile at 34 mm height making it ideal for using along with large CPU air coolers. With this XMP 2.0 RAM kit, you only get a 10-year long warranty since it is a comparatively entry-level model and not a high-end one.
Best Features:
- Total RAM capacity of 32 GB
- Includes 2 RAM sticks of 16 GB each
- Rated speed of 3200 MHz
- Comes with a warranty period of 10 years
Pros:
- Low profile RAM
- Decent performance numbers
- Works with XMP 2.0 for overclocking
Cons:
- Lacks a lifetime warranty
5. G.SKILL RAM for Gaming
Even though G.Skill is primarily known for making high-end premium RAM kits for gaming PCs, it also offers a few entry-level models that include unique features, especially at the given price.
G.Skill’s TridentZ RGB Series RAM is probably the best option for those of you who wish to get a great-looking RAM kit without paying a premium for the same. To include RGB lighting while having such a low price tag, G.Skill offers a capacity of 16 GB instead of the common 32 GB found in most RAM kits for gaming. Thankfully, since it is a dual-channel kit consisting of 2 x 8 GB RAM sticks, you can still expect excellent gaming performance from it.
Because G.Skill primarily makes high-performance RAM kits, even this entry-level offering is rated for 3200 MHz speeds along with CL16 CAS latency for the best possible gaming performance, especially at the given price tag. Other than its classy RGB lighting design, you also get features like support for both Intel and AMD as well as XMP 2.0 support. Similar to other higher-end offerings from G.Skill, these RAM sticks are also backed by a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
Best Features:
- Total RAM capacity of 16 GB
- Includes 2 RAM sticks of 8 GB each
- Rated speed of 3200 MHz
- Comes with a lifetime warranty period
Pros:
- Excellent performance
- Great looking RGB lighting design
- Works with both AMD and Intel motherboards
Cons:
- Limited RAM capacity for some buyers
6. OLOy RAM for Gaming
Oloy is one of the smallest and a pretty new brand of RAM modules and other computer components that can be a great pick for those of you who are on a tight budget.
This Oloy RAM for gaming is the cheapest option stated here in this listicle which is an excellent option for budget gaming PCs. As you would expect from such an affordable RAM kit, it has a total capacity of 16 GB for decent gaming performance from its dual 8 GB RAM sticks. Although, if you want features like RGB lighting, you should look elsewhere since this one lacks the same.
Another issue with this RAM kit is that it is rated at just 3000 MHz and a CAS latency rating of CL16 which means you only get average gaming performance from it. That being said, you can get a little more out of this RAM kit thanks to its XMP 2.0 support for overclocking. Despite being an affordable option, Oloy even includes a lifetime warranty making it an excellent option for long-term usage.
Best Features:
- Total RAM capacity of 16 GB
- Includes 2 RAM sticks of 8 GB each
- Rated speed of 3000 MHz
- Comes with a lifetime warranty period
Pros:
- Quite an affordable RAM kit
- Supports overclocking on both Intel and AMD platforms
- Long warranty for long term usage
Cons:
- Not the best performing option
7. Corsair Platinum RAM for Gaming
Corsair also offers a few high-end RAM kits that are excellent for both high-performance numbers as well as for looking great inside your computer in terms of lighting.
The Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB RAM for gaming is one of the most premium options available out there. At the given price tag, it’s given capacity of 32 gigs RAM is quite high which is perfect for both gaming and multitasking. Since you get 4 sticks of 8 GB each, you can easily fill all slots of your motherboard. And because it includes RGB lighting, that makes it look one of the best RAM kits out there.
Apart from being a great-looking RAM kit option, it also offers excellent performance thanks to its 3600 MHz RAM speed combined along with a CAS latency of CL18. Other than its lighting, you can also overclock this RAM kit using the Corsair iCUE software and XMP 2.0 support out of the box. Not only do you get support for both AMD and Intel platforms, but this RAM kit even comes with a lifetime warranty for reliability.
Best Features:
- Total RAM capacity of 32 GB
- Includes 4 RAM sticks of 8 GB each
- Rated speed of 3600 MHz
- Comes with a lifetime warranty period
Pros:
- Great performance for gaming
- Excellent looking RGB lighting
- Includes Corsair iCUE software support
Cons:
- Quite an expensive RAM kit
8. TEAMGROUP T-Force Delta RAM
The T-Force Delta RGB DDR4 Gaming Memory from TEAMGROUP offers high performance with stylish RGB lighting. It features 120° ultra wide-angle lighting with Force Flow RGB effects that sync with top motherboard brands like ASUS Aura Sync. This memory enhances gaming PCs’ performance while maintaining stability and reliability.
The memory uses the latest JEDEC RC 2.0 PCB to enhance signal transmission, boosting speed and reliability. It has an asymmetric heat spreader with an “R” design, symbolizing a revolution in both style and performance. This lighter yet durable metal build keeps temperatures low, even under heavy use. It supports XMP 2.0 for easy overclocking and works with Intel and AMD motherboards, making it flexible for different gaming setups.
The T-Force Delta is also energy-efficient, operating between 1.2V and 1.4V to reduce power use without losing performance. It comes with a lifetime warranty, protecting your investment over its lifespan. This memory enhances gaming while providing strong technical support and customer service, offering gamers reliability and peace of mind.
Best Features:
- Total RAM capacity of 32 GB
- Includes 2 RAM sticks of 16GB each
- Rated memory speed of 3600 MHz
- Comes with a lifetime warranty period and dedicated customer support.
- Energy-efficient with a low working voltage of 1.2V~1.4V
Pros:
- Stunning RGB lighting enhances the aesthetic of any gaming setup
- High compatibility with both Intel and AMD motherboards
- Easy to install with XMP 2.0 support for effortless overclocking
- Full-frame 120° ultra-wide angle RGB lighting
- Supports ASUS Aura Sync and other lighting control software
- Built with JEDEC RC 2.0 PCB for improved transmission performance
- Robust build quality ensures long-term durability
Cons:
- Some users report instability at advertised speeds
- Issues with LED longevity, with some LEDs failing prematurely.
9. Silicon Power Value Gaming DDR4 RAM
If you’re seeking RAM for intense gaming without breaking the bank, consider the Silicon Power Value Gaming DDR4 RAM. This 32GB kit supports the latest Intel Coffee Lake processors and follows Intel Extreme Memory Profile (Intel XMP) standards for compatibility and fast speeds up to 3200 MHz. It is an ideal choice for complex and demanding applications.
With an efficient aluminum heatsink, this RAM ensures quick heat dissipation and maintains cool temperatures even under heavy use. Its low voltage requirement of 1.35V reduces power consumption for better energy efficiency. Plus, its compact size and stylish grey color add a touch of flair to any setup.
Backed by a lifetime warranty, this RAM promises durability and reliability, with ongoing support from Silicon Power. Whether upgrading an existing system or building a new one, this RAM offers a cost-effective solution without sacrificing performance or style.
Best Features:
- Total RAM capacity of 32 GB
- Includes 2 RAM sticks of 16GB each
- Rated memory speed of 3200 MHz
- Comes with a lifetime warranty period
- Low voltage operation at 1.35V for less power usage.
Pros:
- Provides high-speed performance for gaming and multitasking.
- The energy-efficient design keeps the system cool and reduces power bills.
- Easy installation allows for quick upgrades or setups.
- 32GB DDR4 memory clocked at 3200 MHz for fast data processing.
- Aluminum heatsink with camouflage grey design for cool operation and stylish appearance.
- Compatible with Intel XMP 2.0 for reliable overclocking.
- Supports a wide range of Intel Coffee Lake processors for versatile use.
Cons:
- Thermal imbalance due to the heatsink covering only one side.
- Occasional booting issues and system instability were reported, especially during overclocking.
10. PNY XLR8 Gaming Memory Kit
For laptop gamers and performance enthusiasts, the PNY XLR8 Gaming RAM kit offers a perfect balance of speed, performance, and reliability. This 32GB (2x16GB) kit runs at 3200MHz, ideal for systems supporting XMP 2.0, ensuring top performance for gaming, multimedia, and multitasking.
Operating at a low voltage of 1.2V, it stays cool and conserves energy without sacrificing performance. With XMP 2.0 support, it can automatically overclock if the system BIOS allows, ensuring peak performance while keeping the system stable—essential for demanding gaming and professional tasks.
PNY’s XLR8 Gaming DDR4 memory prioritizes durability and ease of use. It comes with a lifetime warranty, showing PNY’s confidence in its longevity and reliability. Installation is simple, even for less tech-savvy users. This memory upgrade isn’t just about speed; it’s about enhancing your laptop’s overall performance.
Best Features:
- Total RAM capacity of 32 GB for multitasking and system responsiveness
- Includes 2 RAM sticks of 16GB each
- Rated memory speed of 3200 MHz
- Comes with a lifetime warranty period for reliability and enduring performance.
- A low operating voltage of 1.2V promotes energy efficiency.
Pros:
- Provides exceptional performance, ideal for gaming and intensive applications.
- Quick and straightforward to install, enhancing user convenience.
- Improves system responsiveness and multitasking capabilities.
- Supports XMP 2.0 for easy and reliable overclocking.
- Broad compatibility with modern laptops that support DDR4 and XMP.
- An instant and noticeable upgrade in load times and operational efficiency.
Cons:
- Needs BIOS support for XMP to reach advertised speeds, which might not be on all laptops.
- Compatibility issues, especially with certain laptop models lacking XMP support for faster memory modules.
Buying Guide for the Best RAM for Gaming
There are a lot of components present inside a given gaming computer that all play an important role for offering optimum gaming performance.
While the CPU and the GPU are the most important ones for running modern CPU games, you will also need something like the best RAM for gaming stated above. For allowing you to pick the right one for you, all these RAM options also have their major features and specifications stated above. Those of you who wish to know even more can check out this detailed buying guide for the best RAM for gaming:
1. Capacity
As you would know, checking the capacity of the RAM that you are going to buy is probably the first thing you should check. This is due to the reason that with a higher RAM capacity, you can keep a lot of programs open at the same time.
In other words, if you wish to use your computer for heavy multitasking, then going with 32 GB RAM instead of 16 GB RAM is going to be much more ideal. Talking about gaming, even though 16 GB of RAM is just enough, you will need 32 GB of RAM for the best performance especially if you stream games at the same time.
2. Speed and CAS Latency
Another thing to consider while buying RAM for the best gaming performance is the speed and CAS latency of your RAM. This ensures that your computer’s RAM not only offers high capacity but it is also fast enough to offer optimum gaming performance. Starting with the speed rating, it is given in MHz which is similar to the speed of your CPU.
For example, if you have a 3600 MHz RAM kit, you can expect to get much better gaming performance than a 3000 MHz or a 3200 MHz RAM kit. Apart from the speed, you can also check the CAS latency of your RAM kit as a lower CAS latency rating results in better gaming performance as well. Unlike the speed rating, a lower CAS latency of CL16 is going to offer better performance than a CL18 one. When combining these two ratings together, a 3600 MHz CL17 kit is going to offer better performance than a 3600 MHz CL18 as well as a 3200 MHZ CL16 kit.
3. Kit Size
Once you have selected the optimum RAM capacity and speed ratings for your gaming PC, you should also check the kit size. This simply tells you the number of RAM sticks included in the box. If you want the best performance from your RAM kit, you will need at least two RAM sticks for dual-channel support.
Thus, all RAM kits for gaming computers come with either 2 or 4 sticks in the box. Even though both of them offer the same performance, a 2 kit allows you to add 2 more sticks in the future for increasing your RAM capacity if needed. While a 4 kit fills all of your slots, it does cost a bit more than a dual-stick kit even at the same capacity.
4. Motherboard Support
Before you go ahead and start using a high-performance RAM kit in your gaming computer, it is quite important to ensure that it is also supported by the motherboard. One of the most important compatibility ratings is the DDR version as DDR3 and DDR4 and not compatible with each other in any way. Apart from this, you can also find support for Intel and AMD motherboards with different RAM sticks. Thankfully, all the RAM modules for gaming present above are DDR4 modules that support both Intel and AMD chipsets for optimum compatibility with all modern gaming computers. If you wish to overclock your computer’s memory for even better performance, then you should also look out for XMP 2.0 support with the RAM modules that you are buying.
5. Lighting
Similar to a lot of other computer components, many RAM stick models also come with inbuilt lighting or RGB lighting. While it does not affect the performance of your RAM stick by any means, it can surely make your computer look better if it has a transparent side panel. Although, any RAM stick that includes RGB lighting is going to be slightly more expensive for the additional aesthetics feature.
6. Warranty
Whenever you are building a high-end computer for playing PC games, you are most likely going to spend a decent amount of money. Thus, you would want all of your components to last as long as possible. This is due to the reason that RAM modules are based on flash storage which is highly reliable. As a result, all RAM for gaming computers is backed by either a 10-year long warranty or a lifetime warranty. Both of these are much higher than what you will be using your computer for if you wish to play modern AAA games.
Frequently Asked Questions
The processor or CPU is the brain of the system and it is responsible for carrying out all the instructions. It drives all the other components around it on the motherboard including the RAM. That said, RAM is equally important as the processor as it is the main storage where the CPU reads and stores the instructions (in fact, you cannot switch on your computer without CPU and RAM installed). Both the capacity of the RAM as well as the speed of the RAM are important to aid a fast CPU.
The RAM frequency, often measured in MHz (Mega Hertz), is an important specification of a RAM that determines the read/write times of the RAM (along with clock cycles and CAS latency). Modern AMD processors benefit from higher MHz RAMs than Intel processors. That said, RAM frequency of 3200 MHz is good for Intel processors and 3600 MHz is good for AMD processors. Higher values can also be used but these should be the minimum and for better overall performance, lower CAS latency is also important.
SRAM stands for Static Random-Access Memory. It is a type of volatile memory that is usually used in CPU internal registers and caches. It is extremely fast and very expensive. DRAM on the other hand is short for Dynamic Random-Access Memory. It is also a volatile memory that is often used as the main memory for the processor. It is placed external to the CPU on the motherboard and is optimized for capacity rather than speed. SRAM is designed with speed in mind and not the capacity.
For gaming purposes, a 16GB RAM in dual channel configuration is more than enough. But for multi-threaded applications and severe multi-tasking, 32GB RAM is required and is not an overkill. For simple internet browsing and watching online content, 32GB RAM is definitely an overkill.
No. If you have 4 memory sticks (preferably from a single kit), then you can use all the 4 RAM Slots.
Up to a certain extent, RAM does affect the fps of a game. If you feel that less RAM in your system is throttling the performance, then adding more RAM will definitely increase frames. Another option is to use all the 4 RAM slots on your motherboard instead of just will also slightly improves the FPS.
8GB of RAM should be the minimum value for mid-level gaming. But for high end gaming, 16GB RAM should be more than enough to play games without lag or stutter.
Most laptops come with two RAM slots and depending on the make and model of the laptop, it can support anywhere between 8GB to 32GB RAM. If you have 4GB RAM in your laptop, then you can add another 4GB RAM to make the total RAM capacity to 8GB. Make sure that the new RAM stick has the same frequency as the previous one. If your laptop supports higher RAM, then you can also add 8GB RAM if it is compatible.
Conclusion
Investing in high-end parts is crucial if you want top performance from your computer for modern AAA games on your desktop. Along with your CPU and GPU, check your PC’s RAM and ensure it’s a powerful kit.
We’ve discussed some of the best gaming RAM options above, including their features and details. There’s also a detailed buying guide to help you choose the right one. If you’re still unsure, consider one of our top picks for the best gaming RAM.
- For budget-conscious users, especially casual gamers, the OLOy RAM for Gaming is a solid choice. This package includes two sticks compatible with both Intel and AMD systems, offers a lifetime warranty and operates at a speed of 3000 MHz.
- For extreme overclocking enthusiasts who demand enhanced gaming performance and higher frame rates, the Crucial Ballistix Max is ideal. This 16GB (2x8GB) kit boasts the fastest RAM speed of 5100 MHz. It features an aluminum heat spreader for optimal heat dissipation and a UDIMM sensor that monitors real-time temperature.
- If you need decent RAM for AMD motherboards, consider the Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB Memory. This set includes four 8GB sticks and combines aesthetic design with a 3600 MHz memory speed.
- For those who prioritize aesthetics along with performance, the Corsair RGB Pro RAM for Gaming is an excellent option. This 32GB kit, consisting of two sticks, not only features RGB lighting but also offers a 3600 MHz speed and CL18 rating. Corsair backs these RAM modules with a 10-year warranty for long-term reliability.
Feel free to post your questions in the comments section below. We’re here to respond quickly and help you find the best option that fits your needs.
