Introduction

ADATA is one of the largest manufacturers of flash memory and DRAM in the world, with a reach across the globe. Founded in 2001, ADATA has steadily grown into what it is today: a leader in the industry. ADATA has multiple product lines to fit different markets, with the XPG subdivision targeting PC enthusiasts and branded as such.

In recent times, DDR4 has been making waves in the tech world, with steady advancements allowing for memory kits ranging from the entry 2133 MT/s to a blistering 5066 MT/s. It is no surprise that the XPG brand is looking to continue this trend of performance memory after the insanely crazy XPG SPECTRIX D50 Xtreme DDR4-5000 kit we reviewed previously; however, this time with a more modest approach allowing consumers to enjoy ADATA XPG memory without the need for a motherboard and CPU that are just as "Xtreme" to run it.

The XPG brand is known for a number of different products for consumers to pick from. The Hunter, GAMMIX, and SPECTRIX lines are the three current highlights of the DRAM market. The SPECTRIX D45G SKUs range from 3600 MT/s to 4400 MT/s, with listed DIMM sizes being 8 GB, 16 GB, and 32 GB. In this review, we will cover the XPG SPECTRIX D45G16 GB (2x 8 GB) kit rated for 4400 MT/s. The XPG RGB portion supports lighting control software developed by the major motherboard manufacturers—ASUS Aura Sync, GIGABYTE RGB Fusion, MSI Mystic Light Sync, and ASRock Polychrome Sync.


The XPG SPECTRIX D45G16 GB kit I have for review today follows modest 19-26-26-42 timings at 1.5 V. This kit is a prime example of memory reaching into the high-performance overclocking realm of possibilities. The XMP profile of 4400 MT/s is going to benefit Intel-based platforms the most; AMD owners could still see a positive turnout after modifying a few settings. In this review, we will be testing the memory at its advertised speed before looking into what a bit of turning can give us in terms of extra performance. Without further ado, let's now see how this XPG SPECTRIX kit stacks up to the competition!

Specifications

Packaging

The XPG SPECTRIX D45G DDR4-4400 packaging checks off all the major boxes in terms of the information one might need—SKU, module densities, how it is configured and, most importantly, the actual rated speed at which XPG certified this kit. In the top-left corner of the box are the labels for the major supported lighting control software options: ASUS Aura Sync, GIGABYTE RGB Fusion, MSI Mystic Light Sync, and ASRock Polychrome Sync.

Flip it around and the back has more information, including a QR code in the middle for easily accessing the product page on the XPG website. I don't see this often even though it is actually helpful when looking for a QVL list, or if you have other questions relating to the memory kit.

The back also has two cutouts showing each DIMM module inside. This cutout is even a window for the sticker on the DIMM listing the operating voltage, primary timings, and rated XMP profile of 4400 MT/s.


Removing the memory from the box only requires cutting some tape—the memory sticks are secured and protected from minor damage with a clamshell inside the outer box.

A Closer Look

The XPG SPECTRIX D45G DIMM modules are black with a matte finish. With a rectangular heatspreader covering the entire PCB, it is a neutral addition once installed. The top has an opaque plastic diffuser for the RGB LEDs wrapping around each end.


Laying the DIMMs on the side, the directional pattern emerges. The raised sections could be interpreted as a heatsink since these are just large fins. Heatspreader or heatsink? That is a question that can be left up for debate. Either way, it helps with passive thermal dissipation as these run at 1.5 V when the XMP profile is enabled.


The XPG logo in metallic colored lettering has been placed in the top-right corner on each side.


Below the XPG logo on one side of each DIMM module is the identification sticker listing the SKU, rated XMP operating frequency, corresponding voltage of 1.5 V, and timings.


The XPG SPECTRIX D45G weighs in at 63 grams on my scale, which is a bit hefty owing to the bulky heatspreader. Weight does not always dictate better thermal heat dissipation, but with the large diagonal fins, I think the weight isn't just for show, but actually a by-product of the thermal solution.

For Z-height, it is 45 mm rounding up with my calipers. The ideal height for the broadest compatibility with air coolers is 40 mm or below. I also suggest checking with the manufacturer of the air-cooler you intend to use. Often, all you need to do is raise the attached fan height; other times, the actual heatsink fin-stack is in the way, preventing the installation of the memory DIMMs altogether.


After taking the heatspreader off, we see that these are single-sided DIMMs with eight 1 GB ICs, which is as expected for an 8 GB kit. The thermal pad covers the entire length with some extra support via a strip of tape across the top to ensure these will never fall apart on their own.


Getting a closer look at the ICs, XPG does not disappoint. Using SK Hynix DJR, these are the same as in those DDR5-5000+ kits. While I do not want to spoil much from the overclocking section, I will say that these perform exceptionally well for being binned and sold as DDR4-4400. The primary timings do not scale as well compared to Samsung B-Die with voltage, but those B-Die ICs binned for 4400+ are becoming a rare sight as the tighter primary timings best suit DDR4-4000 kits or lower. Those who may be concerned by an XMP profile voltage of 1.5 should not worry, SK Hynix DJR can take a lot of voltage if you properly cool the ICs.