We know that selecting the right memory for your PC can be overwhelming, with various factors to consider. When it comes to the Intel Core i9-13900 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 Intel Core i9-13900 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 Intel Core i9-13900 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 DDR5 RAM for 13900: Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB
Based on our extensive experience installing and testing RAM, we confidently recommend the Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB (5600 MHz version) DDR5 RAM as an excellent choice for professionals and gamers. Our recommendation applies to those working with an Intel Core i9 13900 CPU.
Find the Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB 5600 MHz DDR5 RAM on Amazon (affiliate link).
This Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB RAM comes in a two-module kit with a 32 GB capacity, providing robust support for demanding tasks such as gaming, content creation, and video editing. Its clock speed is 5600 MHz and this model has a latency of 13 ns (36-36-36-76 timings), which we determined delivers fast and efficient performance. We have observed a significant improvement in the DDR5 version compared to its predecessors, mainly due to enhanced speeds and reduced latency. These enhancements place it as one of the top memory modules currently available.
The average voltage of 1.25 volts aligns with what we typically see in most DDR5 RAMs. We feel that the aluminum heatsinks are aesthetically pleasing and deliver exceptional thermal performance. The Intel XMP 3.0 profile ensures optimal compatibility with Intel processors. The only potential drawback of this RAM is its relatively lower clock speed. However, it is important to remember that this is intentional, as it caters to users who prefer stock-speed DDR5 RAM without the intention to overclock.
Overall, we conclude Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB (5600 MHz version) DDR5 RAM is a must-have for any high-end gaming rig or workstation, working well with the Intel Core i9 13900 CPU.
Read the full overview of the Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB 32 GB DDR5-5600 CL36 RAM
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Corsair DOMINATOR PLATINUM RGB DDR5 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) 5600 MHz RAM
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Best Overclocking DDR5 RAM for 13900: G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB 6000 MHz
Based on our experience installing and testing RAM, we found that the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB (6000 MHz version) DDR5 RAM stands out as a superb option for users to pair with their Intel Core i9 13900 CPU and those who want the ability to overclock their RAM to higher speeds. This 32 GB kit, comprising two 16 GB modules, offers great memory capacity, making it perfect for intensive applications such as gaming, content creation, and video editing.
Find the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5 6000 MHz RAM on Amazon (affiliate link).
We found that this RAM model provides an impressive clock speed of 6000 MHz and a latency of 12 ns (36-36-36-96 timings). Based on our analysis, the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5 RAM delivers outstanding performance at high speeds. It is well-suited for tasks that necessitate rapid data processing. We have observed a significant improvement in the DDR5 version compared to its predecessors, mainly due to enhanced speeds and reduced latency. These enhancements place it as one of the top memory modules currently available.
We feel that the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5 RAM is essential to any high-performance gaming rig or workstation and works well with the Intel Core i9 13900 CPU. Its voltage of 1.35 volts is around average for most RAM. We feel that the aluminum heatsinks are aesthetically pleasing and deliver exceptional thermal performance. Furthermore, the Intel XMP 3.0 profile guarantees that the RAM is fine-tuned for Intel processors, providing users with a smooth and dependable experience.
The only drawback of this RAM is that it's a little costly due to it being a higher clock speed DDR5 kit, but we feel it's worth it for the speed boost.
Read the full overview of the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB 32 GB DDR5-6000 CL36 RAM.
Best Stock-Speed DDR4 RAM for 13900: Corsair Vengeance LPX 3200 MHz
Based on our experience installing and testing RAM, we found that the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 RAM (3200 MHz variant) is a reliable choice for users looking to achieve a balanced performance boost when paired with their Intel Core i9 13900 CPU. This 2-module kit offers a 32 GB capacity, providing ample memory for demanding tasks such as gaming, content creation, and video editing.
Find the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 3200 MHz RAM on Amazon (affiliate link).
We found that this RAM model has a clock speed of 3200 MHz and a 10 ns latency (16-20-20-38 timings). Based on our analysis, the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 RAM ensures rapid and effective performance. However, we thought it was worth noting that DDR4 technology is less cutting-edge than DDR5 and may deliver a different caliber of performance in certain situations. While DDR4 has made strides compared to its predecessors, we find it is less speedy and efficient than the most recent DDR5 iterations.
We feel that the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 RAM is valuable for any budget-conscious gaming rig or workstation and works well with the Intel Core i9 13900 CPU. Its voltage of 1.35 volts is around average for most DDR4 RAM. We feel that the high-quality aluminum heatsinks provide excellent thermal management and endow the modules with a sleek, premium appearance that doesn't interfere with CPU coolers. The Intel XMP 2.0 profile also ensures that the RAM is optimally configured for Intel processors, offering users a stable and reliable experience.
We determined that the only drawback of this RAM is its lower clock speed, which is by design as it caters to individuals who prefer stock-speed RAM without the need for overclocking and opt for DDR4 over DDR5.
Read the full overview of the Corsair Vengeance LPX 32 GB DDR4-3200 CL16 RAM.
Best Overclocking DDR4 RAM for 13900: Corsair Vengeance LPX 3600 MHz
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 Intel Core i9 13900 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 RAM on Amazon (affiliate link).
We found that this RAM model has a clock speed of 3600 MHz and a latency of 10 ns (18-22-22-42 timings). Based on our analysis, the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 RAM delivers swift and efficient performance. However, we thought it was worth noting that DDR4 is not as advanced as DDR5 RAM and does not offer the same level of performance in some instances. While DDR4 has improved performance compared to older versions, we find it is not as fast or efficient as the latest iterations of DDR5 RAM.
We feel that the Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 RAM is a valuable addition to any value gaming rig or workstation, complementing the Intel Core i9 13900 CPU. Its voltage of 1.35 volts is around average for most DDR4 RAM. We saw that the 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 Intel XMP 2.0 profile guarantees that the RAM is fine-tuned for Intel processors, delivering users a smooth and dependable experience.
We determined that the only drawback of this RAM is that it has a lower clock speed than DDR5, which is intentional since it's meant for people who want the less expensive DDR4 RAM.
Read the full overview of the Corsair Vengeance LPX 32 GB DDR4-3600 CL18 RAM.
Which RAM Is Compatible With the Core i9-13900?
Memory Generations Supported by the 13900
The Core i9 13900 CPU supports both DDR4 and DDR5. For this CPU, you'll need to choose whether you want to build a system that supports either DDR4 or DDR5. Suppose you are upgrading memory in an existing computer. In that case, you must keep the same memory generation used in your current motherboard. Otherwise, if you want long-term support and faster performance, we suggest upgrading to DDR5.
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 13900
The maximum speed at which you can run PC memory depends on your CPU, motherboard, and the memory itself.
When using DDR4 memory, the Core i9 13900 CPU officially supports memory speeds up to 3200 MT/s. This maximum speed means that stock DDR4 performance will be maximized using DDR4-3200 memory.
When using DDR5 memory, the Core i9 13900 CPU officially supports memory speeds up to 5600 MT/s. This maximum speed means that stock DDR5 performance will be maximized using DDR5-5600 memory.
When overclocking memory, such as with an XMP profile, you can exceed these stock speeds officially supported by CPUs. We've found that motherboard specifications indicate their supported overclocked-memory speeds. To be able to overclock DDR memory, your motherboard chipset needs to support memory overclocking.
Find which chipsets support overclocking in my article, Which Chipsets Work With Intel's Core i9-13900 CPU?.
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 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 can fall back to a slower speed than the maximum supported memory speed. We suggest using the maximum speed supported by the motherboard and CPU to achieve the maximum memory speed without overclocking support.
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.
| DDR3 | DDR4 | DDR5 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max UDIMM (Unbuffered) Capacity | 16 GB | 32 GB | 128 GB |
| Bandwidth | 6400–17067 MB/s | 12800–25600 MB/s | 38400–57600 MB/s |
| Transfer Rate | 800–2133 MT/s | 1600–3200 MT/s | 4800–7200 MT/s |
| Base Frequency | 400–1067 MHz | 800–1600 MHz | 2400–3600 MHz |
| Effective Frequency | 800–2133 MHz | 1600–3200 MHz | 4800–7200 MHz |
| Voltage | 1.5 V | 1.2 V | 1.1 V |
| On-die ECC | No | No | Yes |
13900 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 both support ECC.
The Core i9 13900 supports unbuffered ECC memory with a compatible motherboard.
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 Intel Core i9-13900
- Motherboard: Choosing the Best Motherboard for Intel's Core i9-13900
- Chipset: Which Chipsets Work With Intel's Core i9-13900 CPU?
- Cooler: Choosing the Best CPU Cooler for Intel's Core i9-13900
- Power Supply: Choosing the Best Power Supply for Intel's Core i9-13900
- RAM: Best RAM for the Intel Core i9-13900 CPU
- TDP: What Is the TDP of the Core i9-13900 CPU?
- Gaming: Is the Core i9-13900 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:
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