- We begin our testing by physically inspecting the design and the build quality of the kits. We look for any imperfections in the heat spreader.
- Then we install the kits and note if it causes any clearance issue. Once installed, we head over to BIOS and explore the available memory profiles (XMP/EXPO).
- We also customize the RGB lighting and observe if there are any irregularities in the diffuser like poor vibrance or dull colors.
- Finally, we start our performance benchmarks using five different tools to test the read, write, and copy speeds as well as the latency.
- Once we have noted the results of the highest available memory profile, we start overclocking to evaluate how much performance we can get before the kit runs into instability issues.
how we test RAM
Over the years, we have tested north of 100 RAM kits, and to make that happen, we followed a strict testing criteria that ensured utmost accuracy and unbiasness.
Testing RAM is not just about checking their benchmarks, there is a plethora of factors that need to be considered, and on this page, we will tell you all about them.
Key Takeaways
Build Quality
The first step of our RAM testing is physically inspecting the kits for any build quality issues.
We start by examining the overall construction of the RAM modules, paying close attention to the materials used. The heat spreader, typically made from aluminum or other metals, is inspected for its durability, texture, and finish. We check for any imperfections such as scratches, uneven surfaces, or poorly applied coatings.
The PCB (Printed Circuit Board) is another critical component. We inspect its rigidity and overall build, looking for signs of high-quality manufacturing, like the precision of the soldering and the absence of visible flaws. A sturdy PCB is essential for maintaining signal integrity and long-term reliability.
The design and material of the heat spreader are evaluated not just for aesthetics but also for functionality. A good heat spreader should efficiently dissipate heat to keep the RAM modules cool during operation, especially under heavy loads. We check whether the heat spreader is securely attached to the module and if it covers all critical areas where heat generation is most likely.
The finish of the RAM module, whether it’s matte, glossy, or reflective, is also tested. We check how well the finish has been applied, its resistance to fingerprints, and its ability to maintain a clean appearance over time.
Installation & Clearance
Once we have evaluated the physical aspect of the kits, we install them in our test bench and check for any clearance issues with respect to the height.
RAM height can vary significantly depending on the design, especially with the addition of heatsinks or RGB light bars. We measure the exact height of the RAM modules from the base of the PCB to the top of the heat spreader or light bar.
This measurement is crucial for determining whether the RAM will fit under large CPU air coolers, which often extend over the RAM slots. We compare the measured height against the clearance specifications of popular coolers to provide guidance on potential compatibility issues.
Memory Profiles
Once installed, we boot the system and head over to BIOS to check the available memory profiles—Intel XMP/AMD EXPO.
Memory profiles are a great way to get a solid boost in performance without going for manual overclock.
During our RAM reviews, we check if the kit offers memory profiles as advertised. Some kits offer Both Intel XMP and AMD EXPO while others offer either one of them.
Regardless, we boot the system multiple times using all the available memory profiles and note if any of them cause stability issues.
Software & RGB
Before we start benchmarking, we test the RGB effects of the kit as well.
Unless the manufacturer has a software to control RGB (Like Corsair has iCUE), we use the motherboard's software to customize the lighting.
We test the RGB lighting on the RAM modules for uniformity across the entire light bar or diffuser. Inconsistent lighting or noticeable differences in brightness can detract from the overall aesthetic appeal. We also look at the vibrance of the colors, making sure they are rich and true to their intended hues.
We test the customization options for the RGB lighting using compatible software, typically provided by the motherboard manufacturer (e.g., MSI Mystic Light, ASUS Aura Sync, Gigabyte RGB Fusion). We test the responsiveness of the lighting to changes in the software settings, the range of effects available, and how well the lighting integrates with other RGB components in the PC.
Performance Result
Sure we can make a guess of a kit's performance through its advertised latency and speed.
But for the most accurate representation and comparison with other kits, we use benchmarking tools to test the read performance, write performance, copy performance and latency of the kit.
We use these tools to test and benchmark our RAM kits:
| Software Tool | Purpose | Key Metrics Evaluated |
|---|---|---|
| AIDA64 Engineer Edition | Measures memory read, write, and copy speeds, as well as latency. | Memory Read/Write/Copy Speeds (MB/s), Latency (ns) |
| SiSoftware Sandra Suite | Assesses memory bandwidth and other relevant metrics. | Memory Bandwidth (GB/s), STREAM Benchmark |
| Performance Test | Benchmarks the memory to calculate a score. | Memory Score |
| 3DMark Time Spy | Evaluates the impact of the RAM on gaming performance. | CPU Score (influenced by RAM speed and latency) |
| Super Pi | Tests computational performance, specifically the time taken to calculate Pi to 32 million digits. | Time Taken to Complete Calculation (lower is better) |
We use the same set of tools for every RAM kit we review. This way, our comparisons between different RAM kits are fair and consistent.
Overclocking
Lastly, we start OC'ing the kits to check how much performance we can squeeze out of them before any stability issues arise.
Overclocking RAM means increasing its speed beyond the manufacturer’s specs for better performance. We start by setting the RAM to its highest XMP or EXPO profile, then gradually increase the frequency by 100-200MHz at a time. After each step, we run stability tests like AIDA64 and 3DMARK Time Spy to make sure the system remains stable without crashes or errors. Our goal is to find the highest stable frequency.
- Stability and Performance Testing: Once overclocked, we test the RAM’s stability under various workloads, including gaming and benchmarks. We also measure performance gains, looking for improvements in memory bandwidth, lower latency, and overall system responsiveness.
- Voltage Adjustments: To maintain stability at higher frequencies, we adjust the RAM’s voltage, increasing it in small increments as needed. We monitor temperatures to avoid overheating.
- Recording Settings for Transparency: We document all settings used during overclocking, including frequency, voltage, and any timing adjustments. This helps users replicate our results and understand any trade-offs, like increased heat or the need for better cooling.
Overall
Testing a RAM kit usually takes about 5 hours, but the effort pays off in the quality of the results. This rigorous process has allowed us to review over a hundred RAM kits, building trust with our readers through reliable and unbiased test results.