Test Results: Overclocking, Latency And Bandwidth
We used the rated timing rather than the product name to identify each kit in the charts below. The model number is still provided for clarity.
At 1.65 volts CPU core and 1.55 volts CPU Uncore, the two CAS 7 rated kits were able to exceed the fastest CAS 8 set by 14 MHz. Super Talent and Kingston modules barely exceed rated speed, but both are also available at steeply discounted prices.
Next, we tested each module set to find its lowest stable timings at the same voltage levels as above. Because DDR3-2000 is not a stock Intel memory ratio, its tests were performed at a base clock of 200 MHz. The motherboard was returned to its original 133 MHz Bclk for DDR3-1866 and DDR3-1600 tests.
| Best Timings At 1.65 V | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| DDR3-2000 | DDR3-1866 | DDR3-1600 |
| Patriot DDR3-2000 CAS 8 PVT36G2000LLK | 7-7-6-18 | 7-7-6-17 | 6-6-5-15 |
| Super Talent DDR3-2000 CAS 9 WB200UX6G9 | 7-7-7-17 | 7-7-6-17 | 6-6-5-14 |
| G.Skill DDR3-2000 CAS 7 F3-16000CL7T-6GBPS | 7-7-7-17 | 7-7-6-17 | 6-6-5-16 |
| OCZ DDR3-2000 CAS 7 OCZ3B2000LV6GK | 7-7-7-17 | 7-7-7-17 | 6-6-7-16 |
| Corsair DDR3-2000 CAS 8 TR3X6G20008GTF | 7-7-8-16 | 7-7-7-16 | 6-6-6-14 |
| Kingston DDR3-2000 CAS 8 KHX16000D3ULT1K3/6GX | 8-7-8-17 | 7-7-6-17 | 6-6-5-16 |
The third-cheapest module set in today’s lineup takes first place in DDR3-2000 timings, while the only CAS 9-rated kit is stuck in a three-way tie with two CAS 7-rated sets. Super Talent’s low-cost modules also place first at DDR3-1600.
There isn’t much bandwidth difference between top contenders at their lowest-stable DDR3-2000 timings. Miniscule inconsistencies between consecutive Sandra tests mean that the “quickest” module didn’t always win, but the slowest modules lose by a larger margin.
Kingston makes an amazing comeback at DDR3-1866, rising to second place. G.Skill remains on top.
Great DDR3-1600 timings for Super Talent’s low-cost modules are revealed in Sandra Memory Bandwidth.
After running our full battery of tests using the stock air-cooling solution, we retested Corsair's Dominator GT TR3X6G2000C8GTF using the company’s new TEC cooler at full-power. Though our system booted at much higher data rates it was only able to pass our stability test at DDR3-2114, with a corresponding clock-rate increase of 0.7%. Further testing did not reveal enhanced latency capabilities, though the device is likely more useful as overheat-prevention in air-restricted six-module configurations.
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this review is a lot of effort but it hasn't shown the most important point -how much difference any of these very very expensive memories actually make to real world performance
that's something sensible folk will pay money for...
In addition to fla56: and also how drastical is the difference between these modules and the ones I own (they run at 1,600 MHz): Corsair Core i7 Dominator, model number TR3X6G1600C8D. Will it REALLY make a huge difference if I switch to DDR3-2000?
Great reveiw , i would also like to see some video links up of how ddr3 compared to people using ddr2 , could see how much it actuly quicking up youre system.