I'm planning my next PC build and have decided to go with the Intel Core i7-13700K CPU. From my research, this processor supports fast DDR5 RAM, so I would like recommendations on the best options to take full advantage of its performance.
My main uses for this PC will be gaming, video editing, 3D modeling, and some programming/development work. So I would ideally need at least 32GB of RAM that has decent speeds and tight timings to handle multitasking and memory intensive applications.
Some key considerations that would help narrow down suggestions:
For budget, I'm comfortable spending around $250-400 given the high cost of early DDR5 modules. Please let me know your top 1-2 recommendations for DDR5 RAM that can unleash the potential of the i7-13700K without breaking the bank. Real world performance matters more to me than pure speed claims alone. Appreciate any insight you can provide!
Here are my top recommendations in the 32-64GB range that deliver excellent real-world performance:
This G.Skill kit is one of the best performing DDR5 options on the market right now. The combination of high 6400 MT/s speeds and tight CL32 timings result in snappy performance across gaming, content creation and productivity. 32GB is plenty for most use cases and the RGB is tastefully implemented. G.Skill has a solid rep for RAM quality and compatibility.
If you want to max out capacity for hardcore video editing, 3D rendering, VM work etc. and don't mind slightly looser timings, this 64GB Kingston kit is a great option. 5600 MT/s is still very speedy and you likely won't notice much real-world difference from higher bins. Kingston is another trusted brand and the lack of RGB keeps things understated in your case.
Both of these kits should play very nicely with the i7-13700K and unleash its full potential. The G.Skill is better if you want top speeds/timings and fancy RGB. The Kingston sacrifices a bit of speed for double the capacity. Can't go wrong either way.
I'd recommend the Crucial 32GB (2x16GB) DDR5-5600 CL46 kit. It's not the flashiest or the fastest, but it's reliable, works well with the 13700K, and is often more affordable than some of the premium brands. Great value for money in my opinion.
G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB Series is one of the top choices.
I've had great success with Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB DDR5-5600 CL36 on my 13700K build. It's not the absolute fastest, but it's very stable and looks great if you're into RGB. Plus, it leaves some headroom for overclocking if you're into that.
Whatever RAM you choose, make sure it's dual-rank and dual-channel (2x16GB preferred over 4x8GB). I'm using the ADATA XPG Lancer DDR5-6000 CL30, and it's been a great performer with my 13700K. Just stay away from anything below 5600MHz to get the most out of your CPU.
G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB Series is a good choice.
G.Skill or Corsair DDR5 RAM with INTEL XMP 3.0.
Corsair's Vengeance DDR5 RAM are currently best selling DDR5 RAM.