DDR5 vs. DDR4 in Gaming: An In-Depth Comparison with the Intel Core i9-14900K
The technology landscape has evolved significantly since the last comparison of DDR4 and DDR5 memory using the Intel Core i9-12900K. This updated analysis utilizes the Intel Core i9-14900K, comparing DDR5-7200 and DDR4-4000 memory. Surprisingly, DDR4 memory prices have risen above DDR5, a notable shift in the market.
Dec 15, 2023 - 11:00
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Price Comparison and Buying Advice
In a striking turn, DDR4 memory, specifically the G.Skill Ripjaws V Series 32GB DDR4-4000 CL16 kit, is now more expensive at $170 compared to the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB Series 32GB DDR5-7200 CL34 kit priced at $130. This price shift impacts buying decisions for new system builders, where DDR5 becomes the more attractive option due to its performance benefits and similar pricing to DDR4.
Performance Analysis in Gaming: The Core i9-14900K with DDR4 and DDR5
The focus of this review is to understand how DDR4 compares to the newer DDR5 standard in modern gaming environments. This section delves into the performance differences observed in 21 different games, providing a comprehensive view of how each memory type fares under gaming stress.
Benchmarking in Assassin's Creed Mirage
In Assassin's Creed Mirage, DDR5 showcases up to a 13% increase in performance, evident in the 1% lows at 1080p resolution. The improvement extends to a 7% boost in average frame rate. As the resolution increases to 1440p and 4K, the memory's impact on performance diminishes due to the increased reliance on GPU capabilities.
DDR5's Advantage in High-FPS Scenarios
DDR5 memory demonstrates its strength in scenarios where high frame rates are crucial. It offers the best opportunity to reach targets like 200 fps, especially in lower-end GPU settings where graphical adjustments are necessary.
Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty Performance Insights
In Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty, a game not heavily dependent on memory, DDR5 still provides a 9% performance advantage at 1080p resolution. This indicates DDR5's efficiency in handling higher frame rates.
Assetto Corsa Competizione: Minor Performance Gains with DDR5
Assetto Corsa Competizione shows a marginal increase in average fps with DDR5, moving from just over 160 fps with DDR4 to slightly above 170 fps using DDR5. While the difference might not be strikingly noticeable, DDR5 enables the highest level of performance in this title.
Conclusion: DDR5 as the Preferable Choice for Modern Gaming
Given the price proximity and the performance benefits observed in various gaming scenarios, DDR5 emerges as the preferable choice for new system builders. The shift in memory standards, especially with the Intel Core i9-14900K, indicates a clear trend towards DDR5 for optimal gaming experiences.
