When you’re gaming, you notice right away if your computer isn’t working as efficiently as it should be – or as it once was. Thankfully, upgrading your system to DDR4 RAM may be the solution you need to continue enjoying gaming at the right speed and reliability.
Below, we’ve detailed five of the best DDR4 RAM for gaming options to help you better decide which option is ideal for you. Let’s get started.
Why Choose DDR4 RAM for Gaming?
Many gamers continue to choose DDR4 RAM for their setups. This is typically because of a blend of performance, compatibility, and affordability.
It offers reliable speed and low latency, with a range of options from 2400MHz to 4000MHz and beyond, ensuring smooth gameplay and quick load times. Plus, its widespread compatibility makes it an ideal upgrade for existing gaming setups, as most current motherboards support DDR4.
On top of everything, DDR4 is quite cost-effective, allowing gamers to increase capacity without the premium price tag of DDR5.
Overall, with ample overclocking potential via XMP settings and available RGB options for aesthetics, DDR4 provides a smart balance of speed, value, and versatility. Now, let’s talk about which choices are best for your gaming endeavors.
The Top 3 Best DDR4 RAM for Gaming
Below, we’ve listed five of the best DDR4 RAM for gaming options, giving you plenty of choices based on your preferences.
#3. Lexar® ARES DDR4 Desktop Memory
Our ARES RGB DDR4 delivers impressive gaming performance with speeds up to 3600MT/s. This kit is perfect for gamers who want premium performance without flashy aesthetics.
Key Features:
- Speeds up to 3600MT/s for fast data transfer
- 32GB Kit (16GBx2) for enhanced multitasking
- XMP 2.0 support for easy overclocking
- Stylish heat spreader design
- Pros: Great performance-to-price ratio, sleek design
- Cons: No RGB lighting for those wanting visual flair
#2. Lexar® Hades RGB DDR4 Desktop Memory
For gamers who want both performance and style, our Hades RGB DDR4 combines speeds up to 3600MT/s with customizable RGB lighting.
Key Features:
- Speeds up to 3600MT/s for excellent gaming performance
- 32GB Kit (16GBx2) for demanding games and multitasking
- XMP 2.0 support
- RGB lighting for customizable aesthetics
- Pros: High performance with visual appeal, good overclocking potential
- Cons: RGB may not be necessary for all users
#1. Lexar® THOR DDR4 UDIMM Desktop Memory
Thor DDR4 UDIMM, our flagship DDR4 gaming memory, pushes performance to new heights with speeds up to 4000MT/s, making it ideal for competitive gamers and enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- Top-tier speeds up to 3200MT/s for maximum gaming performance
- 32GB Kit (16GBx2) for future-proof capacity
- XMP 2.0 support for advanced overclocking
- Premium heat spreader design for optimal cooling
- Pros: Best-in-class speed, excellent for high-end gaming rigs
- Cons: Premium performance comes at a higher price point
Is DDR4 RAM Still Good for Gaming in 2024?
Don’t worry: DDR4 RAM remains an amazing choice for gaming in 2024. It offers reliable speed, low latency, and excellent compatibility with most current gaming systems, making it suitable for a wide range of setups.
While DDR5 is gaining traction, DDR4 still delivers smooth gameplay and quick load times, especially when paired with higher speeds. Plus, DDR4 is more affordable than DDR5, providing a cost-effective upgrade option for gamers who want to boost performance without the higher price tag.
If you want to learn more, check out our blog post about The Best DDR5 RAM for Gaming.
How to Choose the Best DDR4 RAM for Your Gaming Needs
Now that you have five options to choose from, how do you determine which DDR4 RAM is the best one for your gaming needs?
When finding your ideal DDR4 RAM for your gaming setup, you should keep the following factors in mind to ensure the best performance and value – while still adhering to your personal preferences:
- Assess Your Gaming Priorities
- For competitive gaming, focus on RAM with higher speeds (3600MHz or above) for the fastest response times.
- Casual gamers may find 3200MHz speeds more than sufficient for typical gameplay.
- Think About Future-Proofing
- If you plan to upgrade other components soon, invest in a 32GB kit to accommodate more demanding games and future multitasking needs.
- Stick with 16GB if you are satisfied with your current setup and don’t anticipate needing extra capacity soon.
- Pay Attention to Latency
- Lower latency (CL timings) can enhance in-game performance, especially in CPU-intensive titles; aim for CL16 or CL18 where possible.
- If you prioritize raw speed over latency, choose RAM that can handle higher overclocking frequencies.
- Prioritize Compatibility and Ease of Installation
- Look for plug-and-play RAM with automatic settings adjustment to simplify setup.
- Ensure the RAM is optimized for your motherboard’s chipset to avoid potential configuration issues.
- Budget According to Your Overall Build
- If you’re upgrading multiple components, balance your budget across CPU, GPU, and RAM for the best performance gains.
- Don’t overspend on high-end RAM if your gaming needs don’t demand it; a mid-range option can still deliver a great experience.
Upgrade Your Gaming Setup with the Best DDR4 RAM
When it comes time to upgrade your gaming setup, doing so with the best DDR4 RAM can do wonders for your computer’s performance – and your overall gaming experience.
Scroll through Lexar’s selection of top-quality products to see what other enhancements your computer might need.
