AMD’s Ryzen processors have changed the performance of personal computers after a drought of innovation in the processing industry. The Ryzen processors need to be paired with the right type of RAM to leverage the speed and performance offered by this series of processors.
The best RAM for Ryzen will push performance, further allowing for faster data retrieval, frames per second when gaming, and also smoother processing as a whole.
You’ll find that AMD claims that the recommended configuration for price and performance is a DDR4-3600 CL16. Memory clock, thanks to the Infinity Fabric is at a 1:1 ratio up to 3733 MHz.
The 3733 MHz is hard to hit without the right setup, so for most consumers, the “sweet spot,” or the best RAM for Ryzen 3rd gen builds will be 3600 MHz CL16.
You can run at these speeds safely without worrying about pushing your hardware too much.
What’s the Best RAM for a Ryzen 3rd Generation CPU?
Corsair Vengeance RGB PRO 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4 3200 MHz Review
Corsair’s Vengeance RAM comes in multiple bundles, including the most common, which is 16 GB of RAM split among two 8 GB sticks. The RAM runs at 3200 MHz, so it’s a speedy bundle of RAM, but there’s another reason that people choose this bundle over others: RGB lighting.
Computer cases no longer need to be bland and boring – RGB lighting brings them to life.
The RGB PRO 16GB comes with dynamic multi zone RGB lighting.
Next generation software is also included to allow you to have full control over the lighting experience. A custom performance PCB and tightly screened memory make this a great choice for a gaming rig build.
SPD voltage is at 1.2V, and the RAM is compatible with not only Ryzen 3, but also with Intel’s:
- 100 Series
- 200 Series
- 300 Series
- X299
And the memory is also compatible with the AMD:
The RAM is compatible with Gigabyte’s RGB Fusion, ASUS Aura Sync and MSI’s Mystic Light Sync. Corsair’s iCue software allows for a dynamic lighting experience that, with the right setup, can be synchronized between your RAM, fans, keyboard, mice and even LED light strips.
When you open up the included software, you’ll find an array of features that you can adjust, including colors, brightness and a lot of presets that will allow you to choose unique color profiles.
Corsair makes the best RAM for Ryzen for gaming rigs that incorporate RGB lighting into the build.
Lighting is where this RAM really excels. There are faster RAM sticks (albeit slightly faster), but few have incorporated RGB lighting into the mix like these. Each module has 10 ultra-bright RGB LEDs.
You can overclock this RAM, too. Corsair has a custom PCB, which you can overclock to speeds of 4600+ MHz. While you’ll need ample cooling for these high-end speeds, you can overclock this RAM further than a lot of the other options on the market.
Pros
- Built with RGB technology
- Includes robust software
- Can be extensively overclocked
Cons
- Lights stay on when the computer goes to sleep
Corsair’s Vengeance RAM is fast, efficient and overclocks on most builds with relative ease. But the one complaint that I do have is that the RGB lighting stays on when the computer goes to sleep. If you have the computer in your room, the lighting may be an issue because it gets power directly from the motherboard.
Aside from this, if you’re looking for an extensive RGB lighting solution for your RAM, Corsair’s Vengeance RAM is your best bet.
G.Skill TridentZ RGB Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4 3200 MHz Review
G.Skill is a leader in computer memory, and the company’s TridentZ RGB memory is another great option for anyone who wants to build an RGB lighting rig. The set of RAM comes with two, 8 GB sticks that feature DDR4 3200 MHz.
The 288-Pin RAM has a voltage of 1.35V with CAS latency of 14.
Unbuffered, the dual channel kit works perfectly for the AMD X370 and X399 chipsets. But the description of the RAM is lacking. I’ve seen people using this RAM on the x470 motherboards without an issue.
You can also overclock this RAM without issues or concerns with the RGB lighting.
Ryzen ready, this RAM is a great option for gaming and the RGB lighting adds an additional component to your computer. But you’ll notice that the EAM does not sync with the motherboard, so you won’t be able to have the same lighting experience as you would with the Corsair we just reviewed.
I’m not saying that the lighting experience is bad, but there’s a visual zone color switch that you can see when looking at the case. When you stare at the RAM changing colors, you’ll notice that the colors do not transition as smoothly as some other options.
But the RGB switch doesn’t cause the memory to perform poorly.
The RAM itself is fast, efficient and can be overclocked. The exact overclock limit is not listed, so you’ll want to experiment with overclocking on your own. Others have been able to successfully overclock this memory to push their setup to the limit.
Pros
- Ryzen-ready
- RGB lighting
- Overclock ready
Cons
We’ve already talked about the lighting transition, and while not an issue for a lot of consumers, it is an issue for those that are looking for a smooth RGB transition. Again, the transition in colors is a little rough, but the RAM works well and is able to be used with the Ryzen generation.
Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4 DRAM 3200 MHz Review
Corsair’s Vengeance LPX is another great option for DDR4 DRAM. You can choose from eight unique color options, so you can color coordinate your setup. The desktop memory kit comes with 3200 MHz speeds.
This is a dual stick setup, and Corsair has designed these sticks to be perfect for high overclocking.
You won’t find fancy RGB lighting on this set, but you’ll find that the sticks are designed for the PC customizer. If you want the best RAM for Ryzen overclocking, this is a strong choice.
Why?
Pure aluminum is used on the sticks’ heatspreader, so there’s fast heat dissipation that allows for high-end overclocking without concerns of speed degrading your memory’s performance. And there’s also an eight-layer PCB, which allows for a lot of headroom when overclocking.
Eight layers help to manage heat further so that you can really push your RAM to the limit without concern of burning the sticks out.
In terms of compatibility, this set has been tested on Intel’s:
- 100 Series
- 200 Series
- 300 Series
- X299
AMD has also been tested, with the following models listed:
A lot of Ryzen setups run these memory sticks; they’re reliable and very fast. When it comes time to overclock your setup, if desired, you’ll find that XMP 2.0 support is provided.
The XMP 2.0 support allows for automatic overclocking, so you don’t have to worry about pushing the memory too far and causing system issues in the process.
Each IC is also individually screened, so you’ll be able to max out your performance. Corsair also individually tests all of their modules across DDr4 systems to ensure compatibility and maximum speeds.
Enthusiasts will love this RAM set.
Pros
- Compatibility checked for all DRR4 systems
- Runs Ryzen and other advanced chipsets
- Built with heat dissipating technology
Cons
In mid-2019, there was an issue where a batch of sticks had defects and errors. Corsair is great at responding to customer service and replacing any defects. The issue seems to be rectified, but at the time, consumers were in an uproar.
G.Skill 16GB DDR4 Trident Z Royal Gold 3200 MHz DDR4 Review
G.Skill’s Trident Z Gold is one of the highest-rated RAM sticks, and it also features RGB, which is a major benefit for RGB builds. The stick comes with 3200 MHz speed, and you’ll receive a standard set of two, 8GB stocks that have 288 pins and 1.35V voltage.
A crystal effect light bar is incorporated into the chip’s design, and you’ll benefit from polished aluminum heatspreaders. The heatspreaders will allow for heat to be distributed across the module for less overheating issues.
When overclocking, the heat spreading technology will keep the sticks cool. CNC-cut aluminum is used in this stick’s design. All of the sticks are electroplated, too.
G.Skill also provides a lifetime warranty, so you’ll be able to return the sticks if there are any defects or issues in the future. Timing is CL16. CAS Latency is 16.
The light bar allows for RGB color scattering, so you’ll have a wild display of LED lighting that will complete your gaming PC. In total, there are 8 RGB LED zones on every module.
When trying to control the lighting, G.Skill provides the Trident Z Royal software, which allows for complete control over the set’s lighting effects. The software comes with more than a dozen lighting effects. You can make the sticks sync, or you can have the modules controlled individually.
There are up to four lighting profiles, which can be created to allow you to change the color settings to your liking.
Pros
- 3200 MHz out of the box
- RGB lighting is flawless
- Stable XMP speeds
Cons
Trident Z is promoted as being Asus Aura ready, but older versions of the software will cause issues. When you use Asus Aura, make sure that you have the latest version of the software for a smooth experience.
G.Skill has really excelled with this memory set. You’ll find that the RGB transition is smooth and flawless, heat distribution is acceptable and there’s also XMP 2.0 support for extreme performance.
HyperX Predator Black 16GB 3600 MHz DDR4 Review
HyperX Predator comes with a fierce black look, and there’s a lifetime warranty so that you can replace the sticks if there’s ever an issue in the future. There are high speeds with low latency on these DDR4 sticks, and they’re also XMP-ready.
HyperX has designed these modules to be able to run at 4600 MHz with timings of CL12-CL19.
Intel’s XMP allows you to overclock these sticks with built-in profiles. If you’re running an Intel setup, this allows you to have all of the profiles in your BIOS for quick overclocking. But if you’re running the Ryzen (which is what I prefer), this won’t be much help to you.
The black heat spreader will disperse heat aggressively, so there’s less concern of overworking your memory.
All chips are 100% factory tested, so there’s a lot less risk of sticks arriving with defects or other issues.
When looking for the best RAM for Ryzen builds that use overclocking, you have to consider the internal memory controller. You’ll find that on an x470i, this RAM will have a hard time being overclocked past 3600 MHz. In fact, with the x470i, a lot of consumers suggest sticking to 3600 MHz to play it safe.
At 3600 MHz, this RAM is the fastest out of the box on our list, although many of the options we have listed can be overclocked to 3600 MHz.
The set is not dual ranked, so you’ll find that the kit is based on a single rank module design.
I have seen a lot of builds that run the Ryzen 2700x with just setting the speed in the BIOS. Even when overclocking to 4.2 Ghz on all cores, the RAM was running just fine, so it’s definitely a top choice for stable overclocking.
Pros
- 3600 MHs out of the box
- Ample overclocking options
- Low latency and high speeds
Cons
HyperX is a responsive company, and they test every product at speed before it leaves the factory. The only downside is that this RAM is often sold out, so it may or may not be available. The manufacturer is very responsive, and if you have any issues, they’re more than happy to assist you in the process.
Overall, HyperX offers the fastest memory out-of-the-box and can stably be overclocked for high-end builds.
Patriot 16GB Kit (2 X 8GB) DDR4 3400 MHz – Viper 4 Series Review
Patriot’s Viper 4 series is one that I have experience with on my own builds. Fast and efficient, Patriot offers a budget-friendly RAM that is reliable and comes with two 8 GB sticks. You’ll have fast speeds of 3400 MHz, so the modules are the second-fastest on our list.
The Viper 4 Series is impressive, and they come with a sharp red design.
Base frequency is at 2133 MHz, but the RAM has been tested at 3400 MHz and remains stable. When overclocking, the memory is XMP 2.0 compatible for profile usage and presets that allow for less testing and more success with overclocking.
A lifetime warranty is offered, and the voltage remains at 1.35C.
Non-ECC, this RAM runs on 288-pins.
Viper has incorporated the company’s custom, all-aluminum heat shield that is air-craft grade to allow for optimal heat distribution. You can overclock the Viper 4 with some issues (more below), and full performance has been tested at 3733 MHz at just 1.35V.
When pushing your PC to the limit, the Viper 4 provides stability and longevity – two things you definitely need.
Patriot takes quality a step further with the company hand testing all of their modules. All modules are hand-tested so that they can be properly validated for system compatibility. You can be sure that if the company claims that these sticks are compatible with your motherboard and processor, they have physically tested the sticks on their own accord.
You’ll find that consumers have used this RAM on a variety of Ryzen builds, including the Ryzen 3600.
Pros
- Lower priced than the competition
- Hand tested for compatibility
- Superb cooling
- 3400 MHz
Cons
- Difficulty reaching 3733 MHz
Patriot made a mistake advertising that this memory can reach 3733 MHz. You may be able to reach these speeds, but you’re going to need a very specific setup to reach these speeds without hitting blue screens after booting.
A lot of tweaking is required to go above 3400 MHz, so keep this in mind if you want to push to 4000 MHz or higher.
But if you’re not concerned with an overclocked build and want blazing speeds of 3400 MHz, the Viper 4 is a good option.
We’re seeing a lot of great options with these RAM sticks for everything, from a basic non-RGB build to a rich display of RGB synchronization. Speeds vary from one stick to the other, but you’ll find that when pushing the limits of the Ryzen 3rd generation processor, you’ll have to tweak a lot of hardware to get everything up and running smoothly.
If you don’t have plans to overclock, all of these options run well right out of the box.
Overclocking can be achieved best with the Corsair’s Vengeance RGB Pro, but you need to make sure that you don’t have any hardware bottlenecks which can cause speeds to suffer in the long-run.
FAQs When Buying RAM for Ryzen 3rd Gen Processors
A lot of consumers will look at the clock speed for their RAM, ensure that compatibility between the RAM and the motherboard and make their purchase. For a lot of consumers, as long as the RAM is compatible, they won’t do any in-depth testing and will work with the speeds advertised.
But a lot goes into purchasing RAM when you know what everything means.
A few of the most common questions that you should be asking, but most people do not ask, include:
How Much RAM Do I Really Need?
I’ve listed RAM kits with 16 GB sets. Why? You really don’t need more than 16 GB for a gaming PC or any normal processing. If you browse the web, play games and do word processing or even programming, 16 GB will more than suffice for the foreseeable future.
But the one time that you’ll want to go above the 16 GB threshold is when you’re involved in rendering or very memory-intensive tasks.
If you’re building your own gaming environments or dealing with extensive 3D modeling, you may want to go higher than 16 GB. In fact, 32 GB with be the bare minimum, with 64 GB being the sweet spot.
You may even want 128 GB for serious 3D rendering. But for 99% of gamers or computer users, you’ll never need more than 16 GB of RAM.
Will RGB Impact Performance?
No. RGB modules are all about aesthetics, and while they may require slightly more from your power supply, they shouldn’t have much of an impact on performance. You may need to run syncing software, and this will have a very slight impact on performance when your rig is under an extreme load.
Should I Be Concerned About Module Height?
Yes. A lot of the RGB modules are thicker and have a higher height than non-RGB modules. You should not have any concerns unless you’re already low in space and have a CPU cooler. Coolers can reduce clearance, so you’ll want to check with the cooler’s manufacturer to see what clearance is available.
Single or Dual Channel?
Dual-channel setups run best, and they’ll allow for more bandwidth when working simultaneously. You won’t find much support for quad-channel setups, and single setups will have half the bandwidth available.
The kits above will be able to provide you with superb bandwidth on dual-channel setups.
Is CAS Latency Important?
Yes, CAS latency (CL) is very important, and the best RAM for Ryzen 3rd generation will have CL16 ideally. These figures indicate the delay and latency of the memory between each command.
The lower the CL, the better.
Essentially, CL16 will take 16 cycles to complete a task. Fewer cycles are ideal, and you’ll find most RAM modules at CL16. The difference between CL18 and CL16 are noticeable when performing intensive tasks, but the impact will be minimal for most users.
A dual channel kit will be much more important for speed and bandwidth.
