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The Core i9-14900KF continues to dominate the gaming benchmarks in my testing, but in order to get its full benefit, you need to pair it with an equally competent memory kit. The Core i9-14900KF is compatible with both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, giving us plenty of options to choose from. Based on my testing, I have put together a selection of the best RAM kits that will maximize the performance of this beast.
Our Top Picks
Here’s a quick look at the best RAM for i9-14900KF, alongside a brief comparison of their specs:
Last Updated:
- May 17, 2024: I have made some formatting changes to improve readability.
Got the Core i9-14900KF? Our expert panel recommends the following:
Best RAM For i9-14900KF
I selected the following RAM kits for i9-14900KF based on our hands-on testing:
- Best Overall: G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB 32 GB (2x16GB) 6600MHz CL34
- Best Performance: V-Color Manta XPrism 32GB (2x16GB) 7200MHz CL36
- Best White: CORSAIR Dominator Titanium RGB 32GB (2x16GB) 7200MHz CL34
- Best Value: G.Skill Ripjaws S5 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MHz CL30
- Best DDR4: CORSAIR Vengeance RGB RT 32GB (2x16GB) 3600 CL16
G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB 32 GB (2×16 GB) 6600MHz CL34
Best Overall RAM For i9-14900KF
Memory Type: DDR5 | Capacity: 32 GB (2×16 GB) | Frequency: 6600 MHz | Latency: CL34 | Latency (Nanoseconds): 10.3ns | Voltage: 1.40V | RGB Lighting: Yes
Pros
- Superb stock performance
- Attractive design
- Low latency
- High overclocking potential
Cons
- Quite expensive
- Limited compatibility
The G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5 RAM features a distinctive design with an aluminum heat spreader that combines superb style and functionality. Its sharp, angular design follows the traditional Trident series philosophy, and the RGB lighting is quite impressive and customizable through G.Skill’s software. I found that the G.Skill Trident Z5 delivers impressive stock performance due to its respectable frequency and low latency of just 10.3 nanoseconds for a responsive system. In my testing, manual overclocking allowed me to push it to an impressive 7000MHz at 1.45V, delivering a notable performance boost.
Since the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5 RAM provides outstanding performance and overclocking potential, I think it is a great value for high-end setups, especially with flagship processors like the Core i9 14900KF. It offers a strong balance of stock performance and value for enthusiasts, making it a wise investment.
This is what Nauman Siddique, our RAM tester, said in his G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB’s review:
In testing, it delivered a solid performance, competing well with other high-speed DDR5 kits and showed notable improvements when overclocked to 7200MHz. Although it lacks AMD EXPO profile support, it excels with its Intel XMP 3.0 profile, making it a strong contender in the DDR5 memory market.
Peek into our review with these captures of the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB 32GB DDR5.
You want excellent stock performance: In our testing, the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5 memory kit performed exceptionally well at stock settings, thanks to its 6600 MHz frequency at CL34.
You want a unique design: I found the angular and aggressive design of the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5 to be incredibly attractive, especially when paired with the RGB lighting.
What Makes It The Best Overall RAM For i9-14900KF?
Offering substantial overclocking headroom and a fantastic level of stock performance, along with a supremely unique design, the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB DDR5 RAM is the best overall RAM for i9-14900K.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Overclocking: 9/10 | Design: 9/10 |
V-Color Manta XPrism 32GB (2x16GB) 7200MHz CL36
Best Performance RAM For i9-14900KF
Memory Type: DDR5 | Capacity: 32 GB (2×16 GB) | Frequency: 7200 MHz | Latency: CL36 | Latency (Nanoseconds): 10ns | Voltage: 1.45V | RGB Lighting: Yes
Pros
- Outstanding overall performance
- Substantial overclocking headroom
- Superb design language
- XMP 3.0 and EXPO 9.0 support
Cons
- High price
- Higher voltage
At first glance, I was impressed with the V-Color Manta XPrism RAM kit and its distinct, prism crystal-like design with white aluminum heatsinks. Its customizable RGB lighting is ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate attractive illumination. Although it lacks dedicated RGB software, motherboard software can be used for customization. I was impressed with the V-Color Manta XPrism RAM kit, thanks to its high 7200MHz frequency at CL36, resulting in exceptionally fast performance. Overclocking enthusiasts will appreciate its flexibility, as we were able to achieve an impressive 8000MHz at CL32, limited only by the cooling capabilities.
I found the V-Color Manta XPrism to be reasonably priced for its performance class. It also delivers excellent performance gains through overclocking, and its unique aesthetics with customizable RGB lighting add to its overall value. Furthermore, its well-built heatsink also contributes to improved overclocking capabilities.
Our RAM specialist, Nauman Siddique, says:
This is a high-performing kit with vivid RGB lighting and good overclocking headroom, making this kit enter our recommended list.
These are some pictures of the V-Color Manta XPrism from our review:
You want high overclocking headroom: I was able to overclock the V-Color Manta XPrism RAM to 8000MHz at CL32, showcasing its exceptional manual overclocking capabilities.
You want superb stock performance: If you want to keep things simple, I found that the stock performance of the Manta XPrism RAM was superb when paired with the Core i9-14900KF.
What Makes It The Best Performance RAM For i9-14900KF?
The V-Color Manta XPrism RGB DDR5 RAM positions itself as the best-performance RAM for Core i9-14900KF due to its exceptional overclocking potential, high 7200MHz stock frequency, and well-built heat spreader, making it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking both speed and aesthetics.
| Performance: 10/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Overclocking: 10/10 | Design: 8/10 |
CORSAIR Dominator Titanium RGB 32GB (2x16GB) 7200MHz CL34
Best White RAM For i9-14900KF
Memory Type: DDR5 | Capacity: 32 GB (2×16 GB) | Frequency: 7200 MHz | Latency: CL34 | Latency (Nanoseconds): 9.44ns | Voltage: 1.45V | RGB Lighting: Yes
Pros
- Unique white design
- Low latencies and tight timings
- Extraordinary stock performance
- Attractive RGB implementation
Cons
- Expensive
- Tall heat spreaders
The Corsair Dominator Titanium RGB DDR5 RAM combines premium aesthetics with high performance. I particularly like its unique RGB lighting that shines through individual LEDs and is customizable through the iCUE software. Its impressive design sets it apart, while its white color makes it ideal for use in all-white builds. The kit also impressed me with a remarkable 7200 MHz frequency using XMP 3.0, alongside a low CL34 CAS Latency and 9.44ns latency.
Although the Corsair Dominator Titanium is a premium kit, I think that it justifies its price with unmatched performance and aesthetics. It caters to both enthusiasts and users seeking top-notch stock performance, and it offers a compelling value proposition in my opinion.
In the words of Nauman Siddique from his review:
The CORSAIR DOMINATOR TITANIUM First Edition DDR5 memory kit is a limited edition, catering to enthusiasts and devoted CORSAIR users. The kit competes well in performance, though there is limited overclocking headroom.
We also took some pictures of the kit before putting it in our test bench:
You want an all-white RAM kit: If you want to create a cohesive white setup with matching components, then the Corsair Dominator Titanium DDR5 memory kit has my vote of confidence.
What Makes It The Best White RAM For i9-14900KF?
Featuring a unique all-white design and a supremely high stock frequency of 7200 MHz at CL34, along with beautiful and distinct RGB effects, the Corsair Dominator Titanium RGB DDR5 is the best white RAM for i9-14900KF.
| Performance: 10/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Overclocking: 7/10 | Design: 10/10 |
G.Skill Ripjaws S5 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MHz CL30
Best Value RAM For i9-14900KF
Memory Type: DDR5 | Capacity: 32GB (16GB x2) | Frequency: 6000MHz | Latency: CL30 | Latency (Nanoseconds): 10ns | Voltage: 1.35V | RGB Lighting: No
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Superb latency and timings
- Great stock performance
- Solid overclocking capabilities
Cons
- No RGB lighting
- Slightly lower stock frequency
At a glance, the G.Skill Ripjaws S5 DDR5 RAM features a minimalist design with a practical heat spreader for efficient cooling. I found that its shorter heat spreader allows for better air cooler compatibility, but it lacks RGB lighting, which might not suit users looking for a flashy setup. However, it is also well-suited for workstation builds. In our testing, the G.Skill Ripjaws S5 DDR5 RAM provided reliable and well-balanced performance with a decent speed of 6000 MHz at CL30 and low 10ns latency for rapid asset loading. Additionally, it offers good overclocking potential, with our sample overclocking up to 6600MHz at 1.42V quite comfortably.
I think that the G.Skill Ripjaws S5 DDR5 RAM offers an exceptional price-to-performance ratio, making it a solid choice for high-end processors like the Core i9 14900KF. Its decent overclocking capabilities and affordability position it as a value champion in the DDR5 market, appealing directly to budget-conscious enthusiasts.
This is what Nauman Siddique said about the G.Skill Ripjaws S5 DDR5 in his review:
The G.Skill Ripjaws S5 6000MHz CL30 is the best of both worlds when it comes to value for money and performance. With a durable build quality and limited lifetime warranty, this is easily a hand-picked kit for mainstream users.
Here are a few shots of the G.Skill Ripjaws S5 we took:
You want the best bang for the buck: I concluded that the price-per-gigabyte ratio of the G.Skill Ripjaws S5 RAM was extraordinary, making it a great value buy for the Core i9-14900KF.
You want a low-profile memory kit: If you’re rocking a large air cooler or are building a small form factor PC, then the G.Skill Ripjaws S5 RAM kit is your best bet, thanks to its low heat spreaders.
What Makes It The Best Value RAM For i9-14900KF?
The G.Skill Ripjaws S5 DDR5 RAM stands out thanks to its unparalleled price-to-performance ratio, solid stock performance, and substantial overclocking potential, making it the best value RAM for i9-14900KF.
| Performance: 8/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Overclocking: 8/10 | Design: 7/10 |
CORSAIR Vengeance RGB RT 32GB (2x16GB) 3600 CL16
Best DDR4 RAM For i9-14900KF
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
- Excellent stock performance
- Attractive design
- Great value for money
- Exceptionally low latency
Cons
- Limited overclocking headroom
- No XMP 3.0 support
The Corsair Vengeance RGB RT RAM captivates with its dazzling RGB display, and the sleek brushed aluminum heat spreader adds a touch of sophistication. In my experience, the iCUE software’s customization options offer great flexibility for personalizing the lighting. Its premium design with smooth curves and lines elevates your PC build. I found the Corsair Vengeance RGB memory kit to be impressive with its 3600 MHz frequency at CL16, as well as its low latency for quick asset loading. However, our testing indicated limited overclocking potential, with only a modest 200MHz boost and limited effects from latency and voltage adjustments.
Overall, the Corsair Vengeance RGB RT DDR4 RAM kit offers a fantastic, cost-effective option, especially when paired with the Core i9 14900KF. It’s a wise choice for those looking to save money since DDR4 motherboards can be budget-friendly in certain situations. Its impressive value makes it a solid pick for those on a budget.
What Makes It The Best DDR4 RAM For i9-14900KF?
Offering superb value for money while being an exceptional stock performer due to supremely low latencies, the Corsair Vengeance RGB RT DDR4 is the best DDR4 RAM for i9-14900KF.
| Performance: 7/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Overclocking: 7/10 | Design: 9/10 |
Want More RAM options? Check our tested round-ups:
- Best RAM For i9-14900K
- Best RAM For i7-14700K
- Best RAM For i7-14700KF
- Best RAM For i5-14600K
- Best RAM For i5-14600KF
Why These RAM Kits Didn’t Make Our List
Following our extensive testing of multiple RAM kits, we had to exclude a few strong competitors even though, technically, they’re not a bad match with the i9-14900KF. Here are a few examples and what boxes they couldn’t check:
- Sabrent Rocket 32GB DDR5 4,800MHz: Average timings while costing more.
- Teamgroup T-Force XTREEM 48GB DDR5 8,200MHz CL38: Instability issues on 4-DIMM motherboards, needing to be underclocked.
Benchmarks Of The Best RAM For i9-14900KF
Our dedicated team of RAM specialists designed a series of specialized tests to carefully analyze the performance and overclocking potential of each RAM candidate on our list. The resulting data proved immensely helpful in the formation of this roundup.
Important RAM Key Terms
The following key terms will help you make an informed decision when buying RAM in 2023.
- CAS Latency (CL): The delay in clock cycles between a memory request and the actual data retrieval, often used to measure RAM speed.
- Dual-Channel Memory: A memory configuration that utilizes two identical RAM modules to increase data throughput by allowing parallel data access.
- ECC (Error-Correcting Code) RAM: A type of RAM that can detect and correct errors in data, commonly used in critical computing environments like servers.
- SO-DIMM (Small Outline Dual In-Line Memory Module): A smaller and compact version of a memory module commonly used in laptops and small form factor computers.
- XMP (Extreme Memory Profile): An Intel feature that allows RAM to run at higher clock speeds and optimized timings for improved performance, typically found in gaming and enthusiast-grade RAM.
- Memory Timings: A set of parameters that describe the latency and speed of RAM, including CAS latency, RAS-to-CAS delay, and more.
- Frequency: In the context of RAM, it refers to the clock speed at which data is transferred to and from the memory, usually measured in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz). Higher frequency RAM tends to provide better performance.
- Latency: The time delay between a memory request and data retrieval, often measured in nanoseconds or clock cycles.
- Memory Bandwidth: The rate at which data can be transferred to and from RAM, measured in megabytes per second (MB/s) or gigabytes per second (GB/s).
- DIMM Slots: Physical connectors on a motherboard designed to hold Dual In-Line Memory Modules (DIMMs), which are used to expand a computer’s RAM capacity.
How We Tested & Picked The Best RAM For i9-14900KF
- Stock Performance: I tested the Core i9-14900KF CPU and observed that it benefits from high RAM frequencies, offering faster data transfer for tasks like gaming and video editing. Lower CAS latency values enhance responsiveness, particularly in random memory access tasks.
- Overclocking Headroom: To maximize the Core i9-14900KF’s potential, I carefully chose RAM with extensive overclocking capabilities, especially those with XMP support. I also manually overclocked my RAM to further enhance performance. RAM kits with good heat dissipation and high base voltages were my ideal choices for overclocking.
- Thermals and Efficiency: I understand that effective heat management is crucial for RAM longevity and performance. Therefore, I selected RAM modules with proper heat spreaders and low power consumption to improve efficiency and provide ample overclocking headroom.
- Design and Build Quality: Select memory modules that match your build’s aesthetics, fit your case and CPU cooler, and complement the design language of your PC. Prioritize premium build quality to avoid reliability issues.
- Compatibility: Check your motherboard’s compatibility list (QVL) to ensure the RAM is officially supported. Opt for XMP-certified memory for optimal experience with the Core i9-14900KF. Also, consider the platform’s future upgrade potential.
- Price and Value: Lastly, I evaluated the RAM’s price and value based on initial cost, performance, and future upgrade considerations. Investing in faster RAM upfront can lead to noticeable long-term performance improvements.
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FAQs
The Intel Core i9-14900KF has support for both DDR4 and DDR5 memory. You will need a DDR4 motherboard to run DDR4 memory, and a dedicated DDR5 motherboard if you want to use DDR5 memory.
Intel claims that the Core i9-14900KF supports DDR4 memory up to 3200 MT/s, while DDR5 memory support is listed as 5600 MT/s officially. However, if you want to use overclocked RAM, I have tested the Core i9-14900KF with memory up to 7200 MT/s.
Yes, the Core i9-14900KF supports DDR4 memory just like all the other 12th, 13th, and 14th generation CPUs from Intel. DDR4 memory is cheaper and is compatible with more affordable motherboards, making it a better value option.
According to my testing, the Core i9-14900KF works best with DDR5 memory running between 6600 and 7200 MHz. Intel’s official memory recommendation for DDR5 memory is 5600 MHz, however.
DDR5 memory can be considered better than DDR4 memory in terms of pure performance and future upgrade potential. However, it is more expensive than DDR4 memory and requires a dedicated DDR5 motherboard, which is also relatively pricey.
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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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