Test System

Required CPU Voltage & Settings

Comparison Memory Kits

Initial Setup

Once installed in both my test systems, the memory with its black heatspreader and no LEDs nearly blends in completely when looking at it straight on. It is is a simple design and not much to look at, besides the silver accents having a bit of a reflective quality.

Before moving on to testing, I have a quick note I will be repeating a number of times going forward. Getting straight to the point, this memory kit is pushing the boundaries of what is possible with single-rank memory. Only a handful of motherboards can actually run it at its rated XMP profile.

The Intel-based MSI Z590 ACE is a prime example of one that has a QVL list of up to 5600 MT/s, but in practice, it required an absurd amount of supporting voltages to the system agent and memory controller. On the AMD side, many of the first-generation X570 AM4 motherboards cannot run anything above 4600 MT/s. The X570S refresh and B550 have better support, but it will depend on the vendor and QVL lists.

To reiterate, there is nothing wrong with the memory, but it will most likely requires hands-on tuning of voltages and knowledge about more than just enabling X.M.P to get these stable. Combined with the fact that not all CPUs have memory controllers good enough and the motherboard needing to be up to a certain standard for the traces, this memory kit is unlikely to run at its rated XMP profile for the causal user without some assistance.

Supporting Hardware