Now that we have benchmarked this memory and performed a bit of overclocking, it is time to put everything into perspective. Those who have read our previous DDR5-7200 memory reviews may find a lot of the core pros and cons similar across all the different brands. We will go over which platform this memory kit is best suited for, what XPG could improve upon to make a better product, and finish up on a positive note.

First, let's talk about compatibility for both Intel and AMD. Given there are just so many different system configurations possible, it is hard to give an absolute yes or no for what will work. However, a general range of support can be suggested for best chances of success. For AMD, 7200 MT/s is not recommended when paired with a Ryzen 7000 CPU as illustrated in the Frametime Analysis section. To get slightly technical here, the reason is because, while the recent AMD AGESA 1.0 0.7 b motherboard BIOS update now gives AMD users 7200 MT/s support, it comes with a disadvantage due to the memory controller operating in a 2:1 ratio to the system memory. This, in turn, increases latency and negatively impacts performance. It was unexpected to see XPG include a EXPO profile, when it isn't recommended for the Ryzen 7000 CPU. Future Ryzen CPUs may take advantage of this EXPO profile, but at this time, it serves only as a placeholder for things to come.

With no mention of AMD support on the packaging or website, This XPG Lancer RGB is marketed exclusively for Intel. Still, it is far from plug and play for any Intel Z690 motherboard. In fact, it isn't recommended to use this memory with an Intel 12th Generation (K) Processor either. Both share a common problem. This memory's XMP/EXPO profile is binned beyond what the Intel 12th Gen CPU or Z690 are qualified for. Only a select few Intel Z690 motherboards can run memory at or above 7200 MT/s. Depending on the silicon quality, 12th Gen CPUs also max out around 6800-7400 MT/s for daily use. Simply put, don't pair this XPG Lancer RGB DDR5-7200 with either of those. Instead, use an Intel 13th Generation (K) Processor (13600K, 13700K, 13900K), or a future unreleased Intel CPU. This is required for best chances of success. An ultra expensive Intel Z790 motherboard isn't necessary, as a budget ASRock Z790 PG had no problems operating at this frequency.

It isn't all negative, in fact the XPG Lancer RGB DDR5-7200 memory kit performance metrics are exactly on target, as expected for 7200 MT/s. The Lancer series isn't geared towards the hardcore PC enthusiasts with those ultra-high speed memory kits, but it does have some overlap with the XPG Caster series. Even so, the XPG Lancer series still offers a wide range of memory kits from 5200 MT/s all the way up to 7200 MT/s currently. The sample reviewed today is pushing more into the hardcore gamer and PC enthusiast realm, but isn't outside the reach of users who just want a plug and play type setup. Certain restrictions do apply with supported hardware to match, but it is still achievable.

When it comes to overclocking beyond the XMP profile, the first thing that needs to be mentioned every time this topic comes up is that no amount of overclocking beyond the binned DRAM XMP profile is ever guaranteed by the memory manufacturer. This is repeatedly echoed in every memory review to avoid setting any unrealistic expectations. These memory reviews can also be a great way to see what is possible, while giving an illusion it's easy to do. Typing in values is not the hard part. When the system is unstable, that is when it becomes a tedious process of tracking down a solution. This XPG Lancer kit is a prime example of the unpredictability that is overclocking. While the kit is using the best ICs for this task (SK Hynix A-Die), it does not mean all batches are created equal. In this case, voltage became the limiting factor for this particular overclocking expedition. For the vast majority of users, it is recommended to buy memory binned to the desired frequency instead of relying on overclocking. It may cost more, but at least you know what to expect, and you can still focus overclocking efforts on tuning timings and sub-timings.

Echoing previous 7200 MT/s memory reviews, this Lancer RGB DDR5-7200 kit from XPG is also pushing into the higher end of the spectrum where the benefits may not be worth the cost compared to entry level 5200 MT/s or even 6000 MT/s kits on the market today. This kit is competitive in pricing to the direct rivals, but may still not be the right product for you. To understand why this is, if we quickly recap the testing methodology section of this review, it illustrates the balance between the processor, graphic card and system memory. It is only when the system is "CPU Bound" does the frame rate become more dependent on the processor and subsequently the system memory as well. This cycle of optimization has no end. Typically, a computer's ability to produce a smooth gaming experience is being constrained by the graphics card. A more powerful GPU will yield a overall higher frame rate, but does not guarantee a higher dependence on faster system memory. Increase the game's resolution and or graphical settings, now the same scenario plays out. Understand the cycle of optimization has no end and a balance must be found, unless the budget to fund the computer build has no limit.

With the launch of Intel's 12th Generation processor nearly two years ago, the NVIDIA RTX 4090 wasn't out yet, nor AMD RX 7900 XT. The highest memory kits on the market were rated for DDR5-6400. Now that memory speed is considered tame to PC enthusiasts. However, the higher average frame rates and those 1% frame-rate lows in games may be the same between this DDR5-7200 memory kit and last year's cutting edge of tech depending on the graphics card used. With this understanding in place, DDR5-7200 certainly has its place and XPG offers a great way to experience all the newest games knowing that this Lancer RGB DDR5-7200 has a lot of performance to give. For now though, the primary target is serious gamers with high refresh rate monitors, where the 1% lows are something to consider in a competitive setting. Given that XPG isn't a stranger to making memory for causal and gamers alike, it comes with a limited-lifetime warranty and an excellent use of the RGB integration, It's hard not to recommend this XPG Lancer RGB DDR5-7200 memory kit for those that already understand what is needed to create their balanced gaming system.