DDR5 RAM offers faster speeds, lower latency, and reduced power consumption compared to DDR4. Although it’s pricier, getting the latest generation is worthwhile if you want to future-proof your PC, especially for upcoming games. Plus, the faster memory bandwidth enables smoother multitasking and handling of demanding workloads. So, if you’re a die-hard gamer or building a new rig and looking for top-tier memory, check out these best DDR5 RAM sticks on the market, ranging from $100 to $150.
1. CORSAIR VENGEANCE RGB DDR5 RAM
The Corsair VENGEANCE RGB DDR5 RAM is a fantastic choice for gamers and enthusiasts. This 32GB (2x16GB) kit runs at an impressive 6400MHz speed with a CL36-48-48-104 latency, ensuring lightning-fast performance. Its stunning ten-zone RGB lighting sets this RAM apart, which can be customized using Corsair’s iCUE software. Additionally, the onboard voltage regulation ensures stable overclocking, allowing you to squeeze even more performance out of it.
Specifications:
| Brand and Model | CORSAIR VENGEANCE RGB DDR5 RAM (CMH32GX5M2B6400C36) |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 32GB (2x16GB) |
| Data Rate | 6400MHz |
| Price | $107.99 |
| Latency | CL36-48-48-104 |
| Voltage | 1.35V |
| LED Lighting | 10 Zone RGB, Per Module |
| Overclocking | Intel XMP 3.0 |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Awesome looks and build
- Great RGB effects
- Unbelievable performance
Cons
- May not work with AMD at its full potential
- Corsair iCUE RGB setup is poor
2. Crucial Pro DDR5 RAM
The Crucial Pro DDR5 RAM is a great budget-friendly under the $100 price range. This 32GB (2x16GB) kit offers impressive performance with a CL36-38-38-80 latency and up to 6000MHz speed, allowing it to handle demanding tasks with ease.
The RAM supports Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO overclocking. The aluminum heat spreaders help keep the modules cool, ensuring stability during intense gaming sessions. However, the best part about It is compatible with the latest Intel and Ryzen 7000 series processors, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of systems.
Specifications:
| Brand and Model | Crucial Pro DDR5 RAM (CP2K16G60C36U5B) |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 32GB (2x16GB) |
| Data Rate | 6000MHz |
| Price | $96.99 |
| Latency | CL36-38-38-80 |
| Voltage | 1.35V |
| LED Lighting | No RGB |
| Overclocking | Intel XMP 3.0, AMD Expo |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- Support both Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO
- Ideal for AAA games
- Accelerated performance for lower latency
- Looks minimal and aesthetically pleasing
- Easy Overclocking method
Cons
- Not be compatible with some motherboards
- Base frequency is claimed at 5600MHz
3. G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB DDR5 RAM
The G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5 RAM is another strong contender you can find in the market right now. It perfectly balances the performance and price ratio compared to others. It is a 32GB (2×16) kit with 6400MT/s, CL32-39-39-102 latency, 1.40V power, and Intel XMP 3.0 support for over-clocking.
The RAM is compatible with Intel’s latest processors, ensuring seamless integration into modern gaming rigs. The premium dual-textured heat spreader design keeps both your setup and the modules cool, even during extended gaming sessions. With its striking RGB lighting and solid performance, the Trident Z5 RGB is a great option for those who want to build a high-end gaming PC.
Specifications:
| Brand and Model | G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB DDR5 (F5-6400J3239G16GA2-TZ5RK) |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 32GB (2x16GB) |
| Data Rate | 6400MHz |
| Price | $109.99 |
| Latency | CL32-39-39-102 |
| Voltage | 1.40V |
| LED Lighting | Customizable RGB Lightbar |
| Overclocking | Intel XMP 3.0 |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Exceptional gaming performance
- Good compatibility and build quality
- Customizable RGB lighting effects
Cons
- Less energy efficient
- No ECC support
- Base speed is set to 4800MT/s
- Unstable performance on some motherboards
4. Kingston FURY Beast DDR5 RGB RAM
If you’re building or upgrading an AMD PC, the Kingston FURY Beast DDR5 RGB RAM is a solid choice. This 16GB (2x8GB) kit delivers impressive performance with up to 6000MT/s speed and CL36-38-38 latency. It supports AMD EXPO overclocking, allowing you to squeeze extra performance out of your current system.
I like the low-profile heat spreader design, while the infrared syncing ensures consistent lighting effects. Though this is a bit costly affair for just 16GB of RAM, you can rest assured that it is a worthy option for gamers and enthusiasts alike.
Specifications:
| Brand and Model | Kingston FURY Beast DDR5 RGB (KF560C36BBEAK2-16) |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 16GB (2x8GB) |
| Data Rate | 6000MHz |
| Price | $69.99 |
| Latency | CL36-38-38 |
| Voltage | 1.35V |
| LED Lighting | Customizable RGB Effects |
| Overclocking | AMD EXPO, XMP 3.0 |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- Best-in-class DDR5 RGB RAM
- Excellent performance in all tasks
- RGB brightness level is so vibrant
- Energy efficient
Cons
- Performance stability issues in sleep mode
- Base speed is limited to 5200MHz
- May not be compatible with some AMD CPUs
5. G.SKILL Ripjaws S5 Series DDR5 RAM
If you’re looking for a classic low-profile DDR5 pair of RAM sticks for your compact PC case, the G.Skill Ripjaws S5 Series DDR5 RAM can be an excellent choice. Its sturdy build quality and low-profile aesthetics without any fancy RGB header make it a great affordable option for power-packed performance. It’s compatible with Intel XMP 3.0 and offers speeds up to 6000MT/s with CL30 latency, operating at only 1.35V power. It contains a 32GB dual-channel kit (2x16GB modules), 288-pin, etc.
Specifications:
| Brand and Model | G.SKILL Ripjaws S5 Series DDR5 (F5-6000J3040F16GA2-RS5K) |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 32GB (2x16GB) |
| Data Rate | 6000MHz |
| Price | $99.99 |
| Latency | CL30-40-40-96 |
| Voltage | 1.35V |
| LED Lighting | No RGB |
| Overclocking | XMP 3.0 |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- Best-in-class low-profile design
- Great affordable pricing
- Compact form factor for compact PC cases
- Excellent for Intel CPUs
Cons
- No ECC
- No additional layer of thermal padding
- No AMD Expo compatibility
- Some users faced issues with max speed
6. CORSAIR DOMINATOR PLATINUM RGB DDR5 RAM
If you are willing to push your budget a bit higher for better cooling during demanding situations then consider the Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB DDR5 RAM. This 32GB (2x16GB) kit offers a decent 5600MHz clock speed and CL36 latency. The patented DHX cooling technology ensures optimal performance without much sacrifice.
The onboard RGB setup, customizable through Corsair’s iCUE software, adds a touch of style. With its sleek design, powerful performance, and vibrant RGB lighting, the Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB is a great option for those wanting to build a high-performance gaming PC.
Specifications:
| Brand and Model | CORSAIR DOMINATOR PLATINUM RGB DDR5 (CMT32GX5M2B5600C36) |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 32GB (2x16GB) |
| Data Rate | 5600MHz |
| Price | $147.99 |
| Latency | CL36-36-36-76 |
| Voltage | 1.35V |
| LED Lighting | Dynamic MultiZone RGB |
| Overclocking | XMP 3.0, AMD Expo |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- Excellent gaming performance
- Industry-leading design and build
- Outstanding RGB header
- Intel XMP and AMD EXPO compatible
- Heat dissipation is too good
Cons
- Costly compared to others
- Unstable at max 5600MHz with 1.35V
- Latency seems high at times
- Heat shield screws could be better
7. Patriot Viper Xtreme 5 RGB DDR5 RAM
The Patriot Viper Extreme 5 RGB DDR5 RAM is a great option if you are looking for sticks that strike a good balance of performance without having to empty your pockets. It reaches an impressive speed of 7600MHz with XMP 3.0 overclocking. It can go beyond the dual-channel setup without breaking a sweat.
While the CL36 ensures lower latency and stability, the 1.45V power consumption is slightly higher than others but that is expected given the high frequency. However, the striking design and robust performance make it a compelling choice for those who want to build a powerful gaming PC without breaking the bank. If performance is your priority then you should consider this over Corsair Dominator.
Specifications:
| Brand and Model | Patriot Viper Xtreme 5 RGB DDR5 (PVXR532G76C36K) |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 32GB (2x16GB) |
| Data Rate | 7600MHz |
| Price | $124.99 |
| Latency | CL36-48-48-84 |
| Voltage | 1.45V |
| LED Lighting | Viper Snake Head Light Bar RGB |
| Overclocking | XMP 3.0 |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- Great price-to-performance ratio
- Features Binary and Non-Binary Modules
- Removable heat spreaders
- Overclocking performance is excellent
- Customizable RGB
Cons
- No AMD EXPO compatibility
- Max 7600MHz may not be stable
- Not very energy efficient
8. G.SKILL Trident Z5 Neo RGB Series DDR5 RAM
For the top-end AMD CPU and motherboard setup, you can consider the G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo RGB Series DDR5 RAM 32GB kit (2x16GB) as the best AMD EXPO-compatible memory. This is the fastest DDR5 RAM you can get, offering up to 6,000MHz for stable high-speed performance in all workloads like gaming, content creation, running heavy programs, and more. It features a streamlined yet customizable RGB light bar, outstanding build quality, latency of CL30-38-38-96, and operates at 1.35V power.
Specifications:
| Brand and Model | G.SKILL Trident Z5 Neo RGB Series DDR5 (F5-6000J3038F16GX2-TZ5NR) |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 32GB (2x16GB) |
| Data Rate | 6000MHz |
| Price | $140.00 |
| Latency | CL30-38-38-96 |
| Voltage | 1.35V |
| LED Lighting | Streamlined RGB Light Bar |
| Overclocking | AMD EXPO |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- Great compatibility with AMD X670 series chipset
- Offers a great performance and stability
- Aesthetically pleasing for gaming rig setups
- RGB header and customizations are excellent
Cons
- Power hungry memory
- Maxed out at 6000MT/s with overclocking
- No ECC
- Could be less expensive
What Will You Get in DDR5 RAM?
DDR5 RAM features multiple improvements over its predecessor for all tasks like gaming, content creation, better memory management, increase in system performance, and more. Here’s what you can expect from it:
- High-Speed Data Transfers: DDR5 RAM offers faster data transfer rates as compared to DDR4 RAM, starting from 4800MHz to 8000MHz or more. This means quicker data access and overall enhanced system performance in all major tasks.
- Increased Bandwidth: DDR5 provides additional bandwidth per module so that it can handle extra data tasks seamlessly, useful in gaming, video rendering, etc.
- Higher Capacity: You’ll also get larger memory capacity in DDR5 generation up to 128GB and more, ideal for hardcore gamers, professionals, etc.
- Better Power Efficiency: DDR5 RAM operates at a lower (1.1V) voltage as compared to DDR4’s (1.2V) voltage. That means improved power efficiency and generates less heat for maintaining stable performance in longer sessions.
- Dual-Channel Architecture: Both DDR4 and DDR5 offer dual-channel architecture but DDR5 RAM makes it more optimized with its separate 32-bit channels in each module.
- High Performance in Multitasking: Higher bandwidth means high-performance multitasking capabilities in streaming, browsing, gaming, and more.
- On-die ECC (Error Correction Code): DDR5 RAM features on-die ECC that can help automatically correct minor data errors, improving data integrity, data reliability, and more.
- Overclocking: DDR5 RAM also supports Intel XMP 3.0 (Extreme Memory Profile) overclocking for unleashed performance. It’s useful for heavy workload enthusiasts who want their system to perform beyond the factory default speed.
Choosing the Best DDR5 RAM for Gaming
When looking for the best DDR5 gaming RAM for your desktop computer, a couple of factors need to be considered like speed, latency, memory capacity, aesthetics, and price. DDR5 RAM is the latest standard in memory generation and is a little bit costly for its faster speeds, overclocking, & better power efficiency than DDR4. So, you should consider what kind of CPU and motherboard you’ll use and then decide which RAM suits you most within your budget.
