DDR5 Memory for Budget PC Builds
The article opens with a review of the most affordable DDR5 memory available, examining its impact on gaming performance. Contrary to expectations, DDR5 performed surprisingly well, suggesting it might be time to transition from DDR4 to DDR5 in new PC builds.
Misconceptions and Clarifications
Understanding DDR5's Role
The authors clarify misconceptions from a previous review. While DDR5 may not offer the best value for money, it's not necessarily recommended for those already using DDR4 to upgrade. The focus is more on new builds rather than upgrading existing systems.
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Strategic Choices in PC Building
Opting for DDR5 in New PC Builds
For those building a new PC and purchasing a new motherboard and memory, the recommendation is to opt for DDR5, starting with affordable 8GB modules. This decision is based on testing with the Crucial 8GB DDR5-4800 modules and a Core i5-12600K paired with a Z690 motherboard.
Considerations for Budget Processors
The article discusses the Core i3-12100, a budget gaming CPU, and its compatibility with DDR5-4800 and DDR5-6400 memory. The comparison includes a range of DDR4 speeds to evaluate performance differences.
Motherboard and Memory Pricing
Cost Analysis of DDR5 vs. DDR4
The MSI Pro B660M-A motherboard is highlighted for its value, available in DDR4 and DDR5 versions. A comparison of prices between DDR5 and DDR4 memory kits is provided, showing a significant difference in cost but comparable performance in certain cases.
Testing Methodology and Benchmark Analysis
Testing Conditions and Disclaimer
The tests are designed to push CPU-bound scenarios using the GeForce RTX 3090 Ti at 1080p. This setup may not reflect typical gaming conditions but is used to emphasize differences in memory performance under CPU limitations.
Benchmark Results in Games
The benchmarks include games like Watch Dogs Legion and Horizon Zero Dawn. DDR5-4800 memory shows comparable or slightly better performance than various DDR4 configurations, indicating that DDR5 can offer value in budget builds.
DDR5 vs. DDR4: Performance and Value Assessment
Evaluating Performance Across Games
The article finds that DDR5-4800 memory is comparable to DDR4-3200 and DDR4-4000 in terms of performance. However, DDR5-4800 is significantly slower than DDR5-6400, suggesting that it might not be worth investing in high-speed DDR5 for now.
Considering DDR5 for Future Builds
For new PC builds, the 8GB DDR5-4800 modules are considered a good interim solution, providing decent performance at a reasonable price. The performance advantage of DDR5 over DDR4 in certain games is noted, albeit not by a large margin.
Conclusion: DDR5 in Budget PC Builds
Final Recommendations
Based on the testing and analysis, DDR5-4800 memory can be a wise choice for those building a new PC, especially given its future upgrade potential. The value and performance of DDR5 are highlighted, with the suggestion that it might be a more viable option as prices continue to improve.
Navigating the Transition from DDR4 to DDR5
The article concludes by advising readers on the transition from DDR4 to DDR5, especially for new PC builds. It emphasizes that while DDR5 doesn't always offer a significant performance boost over DDR4, its evolving technology and potential future price drops make it an attractive option for budget PC builders.
