Easily avoid bottlenecks with the best RAM for gaming.
Choosing the best RAM for gaming is a relatively straightforward task, so long as you’ve nailed down the basic terminology and sifted through near-endless options. To help you along, we’ve narrowed down an epic list of DDR4 RAM to just a few memory kits to suit most needs and budgets.
When selecting the top DDR4 RAM for gaming, there are several things you have to take into account. First, consider the total capacity of memory you’re looking for. We recommend a minimum of 16GB for most serious gaming PCs (it’s what we use in our high-end PC build) but it isn’t too costly to upgrade to 32GB these days, thanks to a recent pricing crash. That capacity will provide a hefty buffer if you’re inclined to multitasking, or y’know, heavy Chrome tab usage—check out our handy guide if you’re wondering how much RAM you actually need. Assuming your motherboard supports up to four sticks of RAM, you can always purchase additional modules later.
The second thing to consider is the speed of your memory. Generally, we like to stick with two DDR4 modules with 3,000MHz or higher clock speeds. That should ensure you’re getting the most out of the best CPUs for gaming.
Whatever your specific needs may be, we’ve chosen some of our favorite options for PC gaming below. Best RAM for gaming
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(Image credit: Corsair)
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(Image credit: Corsair)
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(Image credit: Corsair)1. Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB 32GB DDR4-3200MHz
The best RAM for gaming
Speed: DDR4-3200MHz| Timing: 16-18-18-36| CAS Latency: 16| Voltage: 1.35V| DIMMs: 2x 16GB
$195.99
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$199.99
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$245.99
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Ultra-bright Capellix RGB LEDs
Dominator DHX heat-spreaders
Advanced iCUE software
Corsair has outdone itself with the Dominator Platinum RGB. The original DDR4 kit has been our favorite high-end memory bundle for quite some time now. Its sleek exterior, patented DHX cooling technology, and unrivaled performance have made it a formidable flagship over the years, topping our best RAM for gaming list. Now, the iconic Dominator Platinum is back with a stealthy new design and Corsair’s new Capellix LED technology.
The Dominator Platinum RGB takes the same best-in-class performance of the original, adds higher-clocked SKUs and 12 individually addressable Capellix RGB LEDs. The new LEDs are brighter and more efficient than previous iterations, and available via Corsair alone. Combined with Corsair’s iCUE software, the Dominator Platinum RGB has become both the best RGB and high-end performance kit.
The price doesn’t differ too much from the original, non-RGB Dominator Platinum, but you’re still paying a hefty premium compared to some of the other kits mentioned in this guide. We still think it’s well worth every penny if you can afford it, whichever capacity kit you go for.
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(Image credit: G. Skill)
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(Image credit: G. Skill)2. G. Skill Trident Z Neo 32GB DDR4-3600MHz
The best RAM for gaming with an AMD motherboard
Speed: DDR4-3600MHz| Timing: 18-22-22-42| CAS Latency: 18| Voltage: 1.35V| DIMMs: 2x 16GB
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High speed and high capacity RGB kit
Optimized for AMD Ryzen builds
G. Skill’s Trident Z RGB RAM has dominated our guide for years now, and it’s no surprise the company’s Trident Z Neo series has also earned a spot here. Similar to the original Trident Z RGB series, the Trident Z Neo comes equipped with brilliant RGB lighting done in a very tasteful manner. More importantly, the Neo series is optimized for AMD Ryzen builds which make this budget-friendly option the perfect choice for budget-conscious Ryzen PCs.
