comparing DDR3 memory prices

[dig314]

This is a "featured deal" at Newegg:
OCZ Gold 6GB (3 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Triple Channel Kit
US $ 95 less $20 REBATE = $75

Does this CRUCIAL memory have the same specs?
6GB kit (2GBx3), Ballistix Tracer 240-pin DIMM (with LEDs), DDR3 PC3-12800 memory module BL3KIT25664TN1608
US $ 260

Why is there such a large difference in the price?

Dig

 

[taltamir]

yes they both have the same timings and voltage (1.65), their voltage is above the correct voltage for DDR3, 1.5v. And it is known that if you go over 1.65 you will ruin your i7 cpu, so it is pushing it. But they should work at normal voltage with a slight timing loosening. (no need for you to do anything really, just plug it in and it should work right) it will get 1600mhz, but probably not 8-8-8-24 at 1.5 volts.

anyways, just because they both have the exact same spec doesn't mean they are equal in performance, but overall there is no real difference in performance of your computer based on your ram speed... so don't worry about it.

 

[dig314]

Thank you for the info.

I will not be purchasing from Crucial when their price is SO much higher than comparable memory.

Dig

 

[taltamir]

yes, and OCZ is also a very respectable top tier company... the reason this specific crucial is so expensive is:

What is Ballistix Tracer memory? Ballistix Tracer memory is specifically built for performance enthusiasts and case modders who want to push the performance envelope while adding flash appeal to their boxes. The Ballistix line of high-performance memory modules features advanced speed grades, low latencies, and integrated aluminum heat spreaders. Ballistix Tracer memory features a black PCB, black integrated heat spreaders, and one or two rows of eight "chasing" red and green LEDs atop the module, circulating in a random pattern based on memory utilization. A custom-designed circuit relays bus activity to the LEDs, allowing them to accurately reflect usage of each memory module. In addition, eight blue ground effects LEDs emit a constant glow near the pins.

You are paying for the "bling", its got black PCB, flying LED lights, etc... its meant to look bling for someone with an open case... i am certain crucial sells an identical pack of ram without the bling at a similar price to the OCZ pack.

 

[dig314]

Originally posted by: taltamir i am certain crucial sells an identical pack of ram without the bling at a similar price to the OCZ pack.

That is what I can't understand...why is all the crucial memory so much higher?

Giga-Byte GA-EX58-UD3R-SLI (rev. 1.0) Motherboard
On the left side, filter/refine to show HIGH SPEED, 3 piece Kit, 6 GB.

The Ballistix ( NON-Tracer ) is all $220 and up.

Dig

 

[taltamir]

I just explained why its higher, because its got BLINKING LED LIGHTS that make it look like a christmas tree (rows of red and green lights that blink in patterns) and its painted in special colors and its got a "cool looking" heatsink.
I can't understand why someone would pay hundreds to bling out their computer (or thousands, or more)... but people do. Its like jewlery, some people just have money to burn and want to do so.

 

[dig314]

Originally posted by: taltamir
I just explained why its higher, because its got BLINKING LED LIGHT

The non blinking version is still $225 vs the OCZ with the same specs of $95:

Tracer Ballistix = heat spreader with glowing LEDs = $260
Ballistix = heat spreader = $225
OCZ Gold = heat spreader = $95

Again Taltamir, thank you for the reply, but it seems like Crucial's prices are way out of line.

Dig

 

[taltamir]

you got a point.. interestingly overpriced.. oh and check this:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/...0105233077%20105243158

 

[dig314]

The link is not working for me.

Does the link show prices of other memory manufactures ?

Dig

 

[taltamir]

You need to CLICK the link not copy paste it, anandtech "shortens" the visible link, but when you click it goes to the full length one.

It basically searches newegg for all DDR-1600 3x2GB modules sort from lowest to highest price... some of them I think are better deals than the OCZ gold.