We know that selecting the right memory for your PC can be overwhelming, with various factors to consider. When it comes to the AMD Ryzen 9 5950X processor, choosing a compatible memory type that can handle its demands is crucial for optimal performance and reliability. As computer hardware experts, we've evaluated the available RAM options, considering key factors such as speed, capacity, compatibility, and price. Based on our analysis, we'll provide recommendations and weigh the pros and cons of each option to assist you in making an informed decision.
Drawing on our firsthand experience, quantitative measurements, and product knowledge, we'll provide an overview of how the current RAM generation has evolved from previous ones, identifying which performance changes will impact your overall experience with the AMD Ryzen 9 5950X processor. By the end of this article, you'll have a clear understanding of how to choose the best RAM for your PC, specifically for the AMD Ryzen 9 5950X processor.
Our objective is to offer you the most valuable information possible to assist you in making the best decision based on your requirements. In addition to our comprehensive analysis, we have included links to other helpful resources.
Best Stock-Speed RAM for 5950X: Corsair Vengeance LPX
Based on our experience installing and testing RAM, we found that the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 RAM (3200 MHz version) is an excellent option for non-overclockers looking for a well-rounded performance upgrade to pair with their AMD Ryzen 9 5950X CPU. This RAM comes in a 2-module kit with a 32 GB capacity, which is more than enough memory for intensive tasks like gaming, content creation, and video editing.
Find the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 3200 MHz on Amazon (affiliate link).
We found that the Corsair Vengeance LPX 3200 MHz DDR4 RAM has a clock speed of 3200 MHz and a latency of 10 ns (16-20-20-38 timings), allowing it to provide quick and efficient performance. We determined that this DDR4 RAM balances speed and latency, making it ideal for users who want excellent performance at a reasonable price compared to newer DDR5 RAM. We saw that it is suitable for demanding tasks that require speedy data processing.
We feel that the Corsair Vengeance LPX 3200 MHz DDR4 RAM is an excellent addition to any value gaming rig or workstation, especially when paired with the AMD Ryzen 9 5950X CPU. Its voltage of 1.35 volts is around average for most DDR4 RAM. We saw that the high-quality aluminum heatsinks provide superior thermal management while giving the modules a sleek and premium appearance, and they do not interfere with the CPU cooler. Moreover, the RAM is optimized for AMD DDR4 motherboards, ensuring a smooth and dependable experience for users who want the best performance from their AMD processors.
We determined that the only drawback of this RAM is that it is DDR4 instead of the newer and faster DDR5 RAM, but it is significantly less expensive than DDR5. However, the Ryzen 9 5950X only supports DDR4, so this 'drawback' is irrelevant for those who want or already have this CPU.
Read the full overview of the Corsair Vengeance LPX 32 GB DDR4-3200 RAM
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Best Overclocking RAM for 5950X: Corsair Vengeance LPX
Based on our experience installing and testing RAM, we found that the Corsair Vengeance LPX (3600 MHz version) DDR4 RAM is a highly dependable option for users seeking a balanced performance upgrade to pair with their AMD Ryzen 9 5950X CPU and those who want the ability to overclock their RAM to higher speeds. With a 32 GB capacity in a 2-module kit, this RAM offers sufficient memory for intensive tasks like gaming, content creation, and video editing.
Find the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 3600 MHz on Amazon (affiliate link).
We found that this RAM model boasts a clock speed of 3600 MHz and a latency of 10 ns (18-22-22-42 timings), enabling the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 RAM to deliver swift and efficient performance. We determined that this DDR4 RAM provides a solid balance between speed and latency, making it ideal for users who want excellent performance without breaking the bank compared to newer DDR5 RAM. We found it is well-suited for demanding tasks that necessitate speedy data processing.
We feel that the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 RAM is a valuable addition to any value gaming rig or workstation, perfectly complementing the AMD Ryzen 9 5950X CPU. Its voltage of 1.35 volts is around average for most DDR4 RAM. We saw that the top-notch aluminum heatsinks offer superb thermal management and bestow the modules with a sleek and premium appearance while avoiding conflict with a CPU cooler. Furthermore, the optimization for AMD DDR4 motherboards guarantees a smooth and dependable experience for users seeking the best performance from their AMD processors.
We determined that the only drawback of this RAM is that it's only DDR4 instead of the newer and faster DDR5 RAM, but it's much less expensive than DDR5. The Ryzen 9 5950X only supports DDR4, so the 'downside' is irrelevant for those who want or already have this CPU.
Read the full overview of the Corsair Vengeance LPX 32 GB DDR4-3600 RAM.
Which RAM Is Compatible With the Ryzen 9 5950X?
Memory Generation Supported by the 5950X
The Ryzen 9 5950X CPU only supports DDR4 memory. Other generations of memory are incompatible.
The generation of memory (e.g., DDR3, DDR4, or DDR5) must match what is supported by your motherboard. Motherboards only support a single generation of memory.
To learn more about the difference between DDR5 and DDR4, check out our article: DDR4 vs. DDR5? Which You Should Buy.
Maximum Memory Speeds Supported by the 5950X
The maximum speed at which you can run PC memory depends on your CPU, motherboard, and the memory itself.
When using DDR4 memory, the Ryzen 9 5950X CPU officially supports effective memory speeds up to 3200 MHz (3200 MT/s). This maximum speed means that stock DDR4 performance will be maximized using DDR4-3200 memory.
When overclocking memory, you can exceed these stock speeds officially supported by CPUs. We've found that motherboard specifications will indicate their supported overclocked-memory speeds.
RAM can also be underclocked to achieve compatibility, which we found is a great option to try in some cases. Underclocking can be used when you purchase memory that is faster than the maximum speed supported by the CPU or motherboard. However, precise underclocking also requires a motherboard that supports memory overclocking. Without this support, we've seen that memory may fall back to a slower speed than the maximum supported memory speed. To achieve the maximum memory speed without overclocking support, use the maximum speed supported by the motherboard and CPU.
By looking up a motherboard's specifications, you can verify whether it supports a particular speed. Additionally, we've found that the motherboard manufacturer's website will typically indicate which memory kits have been confirmed to be compatible.
Compare DDR4 speeds to the previous generation DDR3 speeds in the following table:
| DDR3 | DDR4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Max UDIMM (Unbuffered) Capacity | 16 GB | 32 GB |
| Bandwidth | 6400–17067 MB/s | 12800–25600 MB/s |
| Transfer Rate | 800–2133 MT/s | 1600–3200 MT/s |
| Base Frequency | 400–1067 MHz | 800–1600 MHz |
| Effective Frequency | 800–2133 MHz | 1600–3200 MHz |
| Voltage | 1.5 V | 1.2 V |
| On-die ECC | No | No |
5950X ECC Memory Support
We have seen that most gaming and general-purpose desktop setups do not use ECC memory.
Error correction code (ECC) memory is a more expensive form of memory typically used for critical server and workstation use cases. The purpose of ECC memory is to detect and correct when a single bit in memory gets flipped unintentionally.
ECC memory will not work unless the motherboard and CPU support ECC.
AMD unofficially supports ECC memory in most Ryzen CPUs. Unofficial support basically means it is not validated to work but should work in most cases.
One Ryzen processor category which doesn't work with ECC memory is the non-"Pro" APU. The 5950X does not have "Pro" in the name but is not an APU (it doesn't have integrated graphics), so it does not fall into this category.
The primary requirement for using unbuffered ECC memory with Ryzen CPUs that support ECC memory is that it must be used with a motherboard that supports such memory in ECC operation mode.
When desktop motherboards support ECC memory, it's typically limited to "unbuffered ECC" memory. Server motherboards may support "registered ECC" memory, which allows for additional memory modules.
Before Buying RAM
Before purchasing memory, we suggest that you review your motherboard specification to verify which speeds are supported. For example, if a DDR4 motherboard stated that it supports "DDR4 3400(O.C.) / 3333(O.C.) / 3300(O.C.) / 3200 / 3000," that would mean that it could support DDR4-3400, DDR4-3333, and DDR4-3300 with memory overclocking, and DDR4-3200 and DDR4-3000 at stock speeds. We have seen that motherboard specifications also indicate the maximum capacity per stick of RAM (DIMM) and across all slots.
Learn More About the AMD Ryzen 9 5950X
- Motherboard: Choosing the Best Motherboard for AMD's Ryzen 9 5950X
- Chipset: Which Chipsets Work With AMD's Ryzen 9 5950X CPU?
- Cooler: Choosing the Best CPU Cooler for AMD's Ryzen 9 5950X
- Power Supply: Choosing the Best Power Supply for AMD's Ryzen 9 5950X CPU
- RAM: Best RAM for the AMD Ryzen 9 5950X CPU
- TDP: What Is the TDP of the Ryzen 9 5950X CPU?
- Gaming: Is the Ryzen 9 5950X CPU Good for Gaming?
Other Places to Buy RAM
Other Considerations When Building a PC
Want to brush up on other new technologies to consider when building a computer? Check out these articles:
- Cases:
- CPUs:
- The Best CPUs for Gaming
- Which Intel and AMD CPUs Support PCIe 5.0?
- Which Intel and AMD CPUs Support PCIe 4.0?
- LGA 1700 CPU List
- LGA 1200 CPU List
- Look up an Intel or AMD CPU on TechReviewer for related recommendations:
- The Best CPUs for Gaming
- CPU Coolers:
- Storage:
- Memory:
- PCI-Express:
- Motherboards:
- Graphics Cards:
- Power Supplies:
- Keyboards:
- Monitors:
A Note From the Authors
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