Now that we have benchmarked this memory, performed a bit of overclocking, and checked out the accompanying Corsair iCUE software, there is a fair amount to go over. As we near the end of the review, we will examine the potential benefits of using high speed memory and breakdown some of the different shortcomings as well. A repeat commentary of shortcomings of higher frequency memory and general information related to this topic is inevitable here. With that said, it's about that time to wrap this up.

First, let's talk about compatibility, or lack of it. Given there are just so many different system configurations possible, it is now time for another boring PSA. Even though this memory is only marketed towards Intel users, it is still not compatible with the AM5 platform currently, due to operating at a frequency above what any Ryzen 7000 CPU can support. If you have more questions about AMD, please join the TPU forums for more information from fellow community members. For Intel users, compatibility generally is best with Intel Z790 motherboards and 13th Generation (K) Processor (13600K, 13700K, 13900K), or a future unreleased Intel CPU. Because it is binned to 7000 MT/s, some Intel 12th Generation (K) Processor are compatible, but this largely depends on the Integrated Memory Controller (IMC) quality with little guarantee it will work before trying it yourself. It is ideal to follow the guidelines set by the motherboard manufacturer QVL lists for the best chances of success since most Intel Z690 motherboards are not able to run system memory at these higher speeds (6800 MT/s+) either.

Moving on, Corsair iCUE software has received mixed reception over the years since it's inception. From high CPU usage eating up system resources, to the latest RGB lighting problem which left Intel users without any ability to control the RGB DRAM settings. These "bugs" often referred to as "features," which is a joke with the intention to point out a flaw that may never be fixed. The good news is Corsair was well aware of all these problems and continues to improve with each software update. The RGB issue affecting Intel based systems has now been resolved. Previously affected memory kits and motherboards used for this investigation in past reviews, now have full RGB control with the newest iCUE version. This is excellent news and shows Corsair is devoted to keeping good customer relations.

Even though Corsair has been hard at work addressing users complaints, the only thing that remains that could be "fixed" is the fact Corsair's iCUE is the only official way to control the RGB lighting. Admittedly, there is third-party software that can be used in place of iCUE for the memory RGB functions and fan control. Just understand that it is not officially supported by Corsair and as such should not be considered as a reliable alternative. The idea of having to install this just for RGB control of the memory adds to the inherent problem of this ongoing software "bloatware" epidemic. It is understandable Corsair wants its products inside a contained ecosystem for compatibility reasons and better customer support. The software is far from actually bloatware and if you have a number of Corsair products already, it shouldn't be a issue. However, those who have multiple control software for each different component like fans, AIO coolers, motherboard and system memory, may run into conflicts between programs.

Corsair tends to be on the higher side among competitors when it comes to the suggested price point, but that extra amount does go towards funding customer services, outstanding RMA service (from personal experience) and the iCUE software to drive the whole Corsair peripheral ecosystem. "What you pay is what you get" is a common phrase tossed around, which is just a warning that the cheapest option sometimes can be the most costly in the long run. That being said, regardless of the brand, the fastest memory kit is always the most expensive too. This memory kit falls under the "PC enthusiast", which means it will not be the most affordable memory kit either.

DDR5 has finally reached 8000 MT/s in the retail market and is strictly for those that have no budget limit. Corsair currently only offers memory kits up to DDR5-7600 and for a good reason. The vast majority of memory kits sold are used by customers that want a plug and play experience. 7000 MT/s is on the cusp, teetering on the edge between being that easy to use memory kit and one that requires expensive hardware and the good troubleshooting tactics. In previous reviews, DDR5-7200 and above is strongly discouraged for novice users due to the likelihood of compatibility issues. The Corsair Vengeance RGB DDR5-7000 memory kit in this review will have an advantage because of the slightly lower frequency memory. Still though, for the casual user, this memory still has stringent requirements, along with every other 7000 MT/s+ kit.

Switching gears as we near the end of this review, let's talk the overclocking potential. To start off, it has to be said each and every time that no amount of overclocking beyond the binned DRAM XMP profile is ever guaranteed. Reviews can give an idea of what to expect from a certain kit using specific memory configurations or DRAM ICs. However, that is only one sample and shouldn't be taken as face value. Certainly some DRAM ICs will perform better, but overall the end result will be different for each and every person to some degree. Whether it's a different amount of voltage, lower frequency, different timings or all of the above, it is really just a gamble that any overclock will meet the expectations set by the reviewer. That being said, this memory kit is in fact using SK Hynix A-Die ICs. Currently, there is no other option realistically for memory companies to bin and sell anything else if these high frequencies are desired. In short, what this translates to is that those who have the patience and right motherboard / CPU combo should be able to overclock any SK Hynix A-Die based memory kit anywhere from 7200 MT/s to upwards of 8600 MT/s while still within what would be considered safe voltages for daily use. Corsair gets extra points for putting a thermal pad on the PMIC controller and surrounding components too!

There are a lot of things this Corsair Vengeance RGB DDR5-7000 memory kit does right, with the single biggest pitfall actually not the iCUE software, but only having a single XMP profile to choose from. It would have been nice to see a second or third profile to strengthen compatibility among different systems. While technically the user would not get the full benefits of running at 7000 MT/s, the hassle of sending something back is often worse than a small step down in frequency. This kit from Corsair memory sits within the "enthusiast class" of memory products available today. Echoing previous reviews, enthusiast tier memory of today is mainly targeting competitive gamers and overclocking PC enthusiasts who require the best for different reasons. Gamers with high refresh rate monitors, get that extra 1% lows boost in a competitive setting, but the overall average frame rate still may not change. To reiterate what is explained in the testing methodology, memory is only part of the system. When the system in question is already optimized within a defined budget, will system memory play a vital role in higher average frame rates and increasing those 1% frame-rate lows in games. Corsair may not be currently leading the pack when it comes to the highest binned memory kits, but combined with a limited lifetime warranty, decent RGB implementation and great PCB build quality, the Corsair Vengeance RGB DDR5-7000 CL34 should be on the short list if you are in the market for a enthusiast tier memory kit.