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The Intel Core i9-14900K headlines the 14th Generation of Intel CPUs and is, therefore, one of the fastest gaming processors on my test bench. With such a powerful CPU, I believe that every other component in the system must be up to par in order to create a perfectly balanced gaming system. Well, if you’ve been looking to pair it with the right kit, then count yourself lucky as my team and I have tested dozens of different kits to round up the best options for the i9-14900K.
Here’s a quick look at my top picks for the best RAM for i9-14900K, alongside a brief comparison of their specs:
Last Updated:
- October 17, 2024: We have improved our recommendations after our recent tests showed several better DDR5 kits that work exceptionally well with the i9-14900K.
Got your eye on the Intel Core i9-14900K? Here’s some more of our tested round-ups:
Best RAM For i9-14900K
Here is a selection of the best RAM for i9-14900K based on my hands-on testing:
- Best Overall: V-Color Manta XPrism RGB DDR5 7200MHz 32GB
- Best Performance: TeamGroup T-Force XTREEM DDR5 32GB 8000MHz CL38
- Best White: T-Force Delta RGB DDR5 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MHz CL30
- Best Value: G.Skill Ripjaws S5 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MHz CL30
- Best DDR4: Corsair Dominator Titanium DDR5-7200 C34
V-Color Manta xPrism RGB DDR5-7200 CL34
Best Overall RAM For i9-14900K
Memory Type: DDR5 | Capacity: 32 GB (2×16 GB) | Frequency: 7200 MT/s | Latency: CL34 | Latency (Nanoseconds): 9.4ns | Voltage: 1.4V | RGB Lighting: Yes
Pros
- No proprietary control software requirement
- Available at a discounted price
- Supports X.M.P 3.0 & EXPO 9.0
- Good OC headroom
- Has a limited lifetime warranty
- RGB lights on top
- Solid quality
- Offers filler kits
Cons
- Price
The V-Color Manta xPrism RGB DDR5 features a simple yet attractive design because of the diamond-cut top and its rich ROG-certified RGB lighting implementation. The heat spreader on this has a V-shaped curve to match the brand’s name. Moreover, the memory kit is available in both white and black colors. Not only that, V-color also offers this specific unit with filler kit combos so you can populate all the DIMM slots on your motherboard and enhance the appeal factor.
Besides the looks and value of the memory kit, the specs on this aren’t a letdown either. The V-Color Manta xPrism comes in a 2x 16 GB configuration, 7200 MT/s out-of-the-box frequency, and CAS timings of CL34-45-45-112. That’s not it; our tests showed that this kit packs a solid punch for overclocking. We pushed the kit to a solid 8000MHz speed (+800MHz boost) at 1.5V with no changes to the latency. Furthermore, it comes with XMP 3.0 and EXPO 9.0 memory profiles to work flawlessly on both platforms.
When Nauman Siddique, our hardware tester and an expert in DDR5 kits, got his hands on the Manta XPrism, this is what he said:
V-Color Manta xPrism RGB DDR5 kit is like a two-in-one flavor since this kit comes with XMP and EXPO profiles pre-programmed on it. Operating at 7200MHz, it has performed remarkably well. This is a high-performing kit with vivid RGB lighting and good overclocking headroom making this kit enter our recommended list.
What Makes It The Best Overall RAM For i9-14900K?
With such a competitive price now, and great looks overall along with the impressive performance and quality it delivers. The V-Color Manta xPrism RGB can be considered the best overall RAM for i9-14900K.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Overclocking: 9/10 | Design: 9.5/10 |
TeamGroup T-Force Xtreem DDR5-8000 CL38
Best Performance RAM For i9-14900K
Memory Type: DDR5 | Capacity: 32 GB (2×16 GB) | Frequency: 8000 MT/s | Latency: CL38 | Latency (Nanoseconds): 9.5ns | Voltage: 1.45V | RGB Lighting: No
Pros
- Comes with two Intel X.M.P 3.0 profiles
- 2mm thick aluminum heatsink
- Exceptional stock performance
- A lifetime warranty is available
- A good amount of OC headroom
- Justifiable price
Cons
- Can have clearance issues
TeamGroup T-Force Xtreem DDR5 is one of those DRAM solutions that primarily focus on delivering raw performance. That doesn’t mean they lack visually appealing design or other similar stuff. This premium high-performance memory kit comes with a 2mm thick aluminum heat sink that has a sandblasted finish all over it with multiple fins on top. This helps the DRAM stay cool even when going under intense overclocking sessions.
As for performance, oh boy, this kit does not mess around. We tested it against more than a dozen DDR5 kits, and it put all of them behind with exceptional results. TeamGroup has really knocked it out of the park with the 8000MHz frequency and CL38 latency. Put simply, if you want an absolute top-tier performance RAM to pair with your i9-14900K, there is no better option that surpasses the T-Force Xtreem DDR5.
When our hardware expert, Nauman Siddique, tested the T-Force Xtreem’s performance on AIDA64, this is what he said:
Holy smoke! The T-Force XTREEM 16GBx2 DDR5 kit operating at 8000MHz at 1.450V has smashed all other kits in the graph with a good all-round performance. This was expected from this kit. In all three memory bandwidth operations, this kit has a clear upper hand over all the other 13 kits. This kit has even managed to take a top slot in the Latency benchmark showing its supremacy. This is an excellent performance from the Teamgroup’s flagship DDR5 kit.
What Makes It The Best Performance RAM For i9-14900K?
As seen in our test results, the TeamGroup T-Force Xtreem DDR5-8000 CL38 really topped all RAM benchmarks to offer the best possible performance. On top of that, you get a rather sleek design which I personally think is a breath of fresh air from all the RGB craze. Well, put the two together, and there is no other performance-focused kit I would recommend for the Core i9-14900K.
| Performance: 10/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Overclocking: 8/10 | Design: 8/10 |
Corsair Dominator Titanium DDR5-7200 C34
Best White RAM For i9-14900K
Memory Type: DDR5 | Capacity: 32GB (2x 16GB) | Frequency: 7,200MHz | Latency: CL34 | Latency (Nanoseconds): 9.4ns | RGB: Yes | Voltage: 1.45V
Pros
- Outstanding 7,200MHz frequency
- Ultra-fast 9.4ns latency
- Stylish heat spreader
- Beautiful RGB lighting
- Fin assembly design
Cons
- Limited overclocking headroom
- High price
- Less RAM clearance
The Corsair Dominator Platinum 32GB DDR5 7,200MHz RAM kit is for performance freaks who also want beautiful aesthetics on their kits. Corsair’s iCUE makes customizing the kit’s RGB easier than ever. Furthermore, the RAM is soaked in a beautiful white color, making it perfect for white PC builds.
With a 7,200MHz frequency and tight CL34 timings, a 9.4ns latency is bound to provide impeccable performance in productivity tasks and games. If you’re unsure how to calculate RAM latency, our latency calculator tool will help guide you. However, because the kit is already so optimized, it has limited overclocking headroom. We achieved a 400MHz boost during our attempts but had to increase the voltage to 1.52V without changing the CAS timings.
Nauman Siddique, one of our experienced hardware reviewers, said this about the Titanium RGB after his thorough testing:
The kit competes well in performance, though there is limited overclocking headroom. Unique features like RGB lighting effects and the option to switch to a fin assembly design add a distinctive touch. Overall, we recommend this RAM.
What Makes It The Best Performance RAM For i9-14900K?
Coming with a high 7,200MHz frequency, tight CL34 timings, and an ultra-fast 9.4ns latency, the Corsair Dominator Platinum 32GB DDR5 7,200MHz RAM kit is as good as it gets. Additionally, it has a beautiful white design and gorgeous RGB lighting with many customization capabilities. Thus, the aesthetics and power make it the best performance RAM for i9-14900K.
| Performance: 10/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 9/10 |
G.Skill Ripjaws S5 32GB DDR5-6000 CL30
Best Value RAM For i9-14900K
Memory Type: DDR5 | Capacity: 32GB (16GB x2) | Frequency: 6000MHz | Latency: CL30 | Latency (Nanoseconds): 10ns | Voltage: 1.35V | RGB Lighting: No
Pros
- Superb value for money
- Excellent performance
- Low profile heatsink
- Exceptionally low latencies
- Great for overclocking
Cons
- Lack of RGB
The G.Skill Ripjaws S5 DDR5 RAM features a simple and straightforward design that prioritizes functionality. I found that its understated, stealthy heat spreader also serves the practical purpose of heat dissipation. The shorter heat spreader is a thoughtful touch, in my opinion, providing better clearance for air coolers. With decent speeds of 6000 MHz, it strikes an impressive balance between stock performance and affordability. The CAS Timings of CL30-40-40-96 are commendable, contributing to quick asset loading. With a latency of just 10 nanoseconds, the Ripjaws S5 delivered exceptionally quick response times in my testing.
With a good foundation for overclocking, the Ripjaws S5 supports XMP 3.0, making initial setup a breeze. While it may not be the most extreme overclocker, my tests show that it offers decent overclocking potential. With a base voltage of 1.35V and a sturdy heat spreader, I found it well-suited for overclocking endeavors. I was able to overclock my sample to 6600MHz at 1.42V, and higher overclocks are achievable with additional timing adjustments.
The G.Skill Ripjaws S5 kit can maximize the performance of your Core i9-14900K system without breaking the bank, as our RAM expert, Nauman Siddique, confirms:
“The G.Skill Ripjaws S5 6000MHz CL30 is the best of both worlds when it comes to value for money and performance”.
What Makes It The Best Value RAM For i9-14900K?
Offering an unparalleled price-per-gigabyte ratio in the DDR5 segment, along with high overclocking headroom and wide compatibility, the G.Skill Ripjaws S5 is the best value RAM for i9-14900K.
| Performance: 8/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Overclocking: 8/10 | Design: 7/10 |
CORSAIR Vengeance RGB RT 32GB DDR4-3600 CL16
Best DDR4 RAM For i9-14900K
Memory Type: DDR4 | Capacity: 32 GB (2×16 GB) | Frequency: 3600 MHz | Latency: CL16 | Latency (Nanoseconds): 8.88ns | Voltage: 1.35V | RGB Lighting: Yes
Pros
- Attractive RGB lighting
- Impressive value for money
- Low latencies
- Multiple color options
Cons
- Mediocre overclocking potential
- No XMP 3.0 support
The Corsair Vengeance RGB RT immediately caught my eye with its glamorous RGB implementation, creating a stunning light show. Complementing this visual spectacle is the brushed aluminum heat spreader, which exudes class and sophistication. My tests reveal that the Vengeance RGB memory kit offers impressive performance with a 3600 MHz frequency, which is particularly noteworthy for DDR4 memory. The CL16-20-20-38 timings are considered ideal for a kit of this speed, making it a superb choice.
While I found the initial setup of the Corsair Vengeance RGB RT straightforward, its overclocking potential is somewhat limited. In my testing, only a modest 200MHz boost was achievable, and attempts to adjust latency proved ineffective. Voltage adjustments also yielded minimal impact. Individual overclocking experiences may vary due to silicon variation, making it essential to manage expectations in this regard.
What Makes It The Best DDR4 RAM For i9-14900K?
Striking the perfect balance between performance and price in the DDR4 segment, along with extremely low latencies and impressive aesthetics, the Corsair Vengeance RGB RT DDR4 is the best DDR4 RAM for i9-14900K.
| Performance: 7/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Overclocking: 7/10 | Design: 9/10 |
Want More RAM Options? Check Our Tested Round-Ups:
Best RAM Kits For i9-14900K We Skipped Over
Because we can’t add every high-performance RAM kit in our guide, we had to skip over a few strong contenders after extensive testing and research. Here are a few kits we did not add but are a good match for the Intel Core i9-14900K CPU:
- Asgard BRAGI RGB DDR5 6800MHz CAS34: Requires manual BIOS adjustments for optimal gaming performance.
- G.Skill Trident Z Royal Series DDR4 32GB 3,200MHz: Focuses too much on aesthetics, making it significantly pricier than other similar performing kits.
Benchmarks Of The Best RAM For i9-14900K
Our team has tested dozens of DDR5 kits, and while not all of them made it to our selection for the i9-14900K, you can still check our test results in this gallery. Similarly, I highly recommend checking our RAM Comparison Tool for a thorough comparison of all the kits we have tested.
Important RAM Key Terms
When buying RAM in 2023, be sure to keep the following key terms in mind.
- DIMM Slots: DIMM slots, or Dual In-Line Memory Module slots, are physical connectors on a computer’s motherboard designed to hold and connect RAM modules. The number of DIMM slots on a motherboard determines the maximum amount of RAM that can be installed in the system, as well as the potential for memory channel configurations.
- DDR (Double Data Rate): DDR is a type of synchronous DRAM that transfers data on both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal, effectively doubling the data transfer rate compared to single data rate memory.
- Frequency: RAM frequency, also known as clock speed, measures the speed at which data can be transferred to and from RAM in cycles per second (Hertz). Higher frequencies generally result in better memory performance.
- Latency: RAM latency refers to the delay between a request for data and the moment that data becomes available for use, impacting overall system performance.
- Voltage: RAM voltage refers to the electrical voltage supplied to a computer’s memory modules (RAM). It is an important parameter because different RAM modules require different voltage levels for proper operation.
- CAS Latency (CL): CAS latency is a specific type of RAM latency that measures the delay between a read command and the actual data retrieval, expressed in clock cycles.
- ECC (Error-Correcting Code): ECC RAM includes additional error-checking and correction capabilities to detect and fix memory errors, commonly used in servers and workstations for data integrity.
- Dual-Channel and Quad-Channel: These terms refer to the memory configuration in which two or four memory modules work in parallel to increase memory bandwidth and performance.
How We Picked The Best RAM For i9-14900K
Since the Core i9-14900K is a premium flagship CPU, choosing the best RAM for this processor can be a challenge. Many novice builders already find the process of purchasing memory a bit tedious, and the new DDR4 vs. DDR5 debate adds even more doubt to the process.
Fret not, as here are some key factors to consider when purchasing the ideal RAM for your Core i9-14900K.
- Frequency and Latency: As is common with high-end CPUs, the Core i9-14900K CPU is designed to take advantage of high RAM frequencies. However, it is important to also consider CAS latency (CL), as lower latency values can improve responsiveness, especially in tasks that rely heavily on random memory access.
- Overclocking Potential: Modules with XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) support can simplify the initial overclocking process. However, you can even improve its performance even further by manually overclocking the RAM. Look for RAM kits with good heat dissipation solutions, as overclocking can generate additional heat. Memory kits with high base voltages are also great for overclocking.
- Thermals and Efficiency: Heat spreaders, heatsinks, and even liquid cooling solutions can help dissipate heat effectively. When shopping for a new RAM kit, it is ideal to consider those modules that have a proper heat spreader for efficient heat dissipation.
- DDR4 vs. DDR5: Since the Core i9-14900K CPU supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, you will have to consider this decision as well. DDR5 RAM offers a significant performance boost over DDR4, with faster data transfer rates and the potential for greater capacity. However, consider DDR4 if you want to save a buck on the memory and motherboard, but be aware that DDR4 memory has limited future upgrade potential.
- Aesthetics and Build Quality: While aesthetics are subjective, ensure that the RAM you choose fits the physical constraints of your case and works with your CPU cooler. You should also make sure that the RAM matches the design language of your PC and the aesthetic appeal of the other components in your system.
- Platform Compatibility: Always check your motherboard’s compatibility list (QVL) to ensure that the RAM you choose is officially supported. Moreover, it is important to choose XMP-certified memory to ensure proper optimization for the Core i9-14900K.
What’s Your Take?
Related: Can You Mix RAM Brands?
Recent Updates
- May 16, 2024: I have made some formatting changes to improve readability.
FAQs
The Core i9-14900K supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory. The 14th Gen Intel processors carry the same memory support as the outgoing 13th Gen Raptor Lake CPUs. You will need to buy a DDR4 motherboard for DDR4 memory and a DDR5 motherboard to run DDR5 memory.
Officially, the Core i9-14900K supports DDR4 memory up to 3200 MT/s, and DDR5 memory up to 5600 MT/s, but those are conservative numbers. The Core i9-14900K can work well with memory modules up to 7200 MT/s in my testing, which technically falls under the realm of RAM overclocking.
Yes, the Core i9-14900K supports DDR4 memory. The Raptor Lake Refresh processors support both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, which is great for widespread compatibility. Just be sure to buy a DDR4 motherboard if you want to run DDR4 memory.
The Core i9-14900K works best with RAM frequencies above 6000 MHz. The sweet spot lies between 6600 MHz and 7200 MHz for the optimal balance of performance and cost.
You can pair DDR4 RAM with the Core i9-14900K as well, but it has certain drawbacks. DDR4 memory has lower performance and higher power draw than DDR5 memory, and it also has limited future upgrade potential. It does have the advantage of affordability and widespread compatibility, but that may not be the case in the future.
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[Reviews Specialist]
Usman Saleem brings 8+ years of comprehensive PC hardware expertise to the table. His journey in the tech world has involved in-depth tech analysis and insightful PC hardware reviews, perfecting over 6+ years of dedicated work. Usman’s commitment to staying authentic and relevant in the field is underscored by many professional certifications, including a recent one in Google IT Support Specialization.
- 8+ years of specialized PC hardware coverage
- 6+ years of in-depth PC hardware analysis and reviews
- Lead PC hardware expert across multiple tech journalism platforms
- Certified in Google IT Support Specialization
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