On Tuesday, G.Skill unveiled some exciting news for the gaming world: they’re rolling out their ultra-low-latency DDR5-6400 memory modules. These modules, boasting a CAS latency of just 30 clocks, seem to have set a new standard for speed in the DDR5-6400 category. The best part? They’re designed to work seamlessly with both AMD and Intel CPU setups.
Now, for those not familiar, each generation of DDR memory brings faster data transfer rates and, usually, longer relative latencies. While most applications benefit from these increased speeds, some really thrive on lower latencies. Yet, achieving those low latencies is no simple feat, often more challenging than just ramping up transfer rates. That’s why you don’t see many low-latency modules around.
In an impressive feat, G.Skill has managed something special. They’ve handpicked a set of DDR5 memory chips and crafted them onto custom printed circuit boards to create DDR5-6400 modules with CL30 timings. This is significantly lower than the CL46 timings typically recommended for this speed by JEDEC. To put it into perspective, while standard modules have an absolute latency of about 14.375 nanoseconds, G.Skill’s breakthrough offers a latency of merely 9.375 nanoseconds—a striking 35% improvement.
These new DDR5-6400 CL30 39-39-102 modules come with a robust 16 GB capacity and are sold in 32 GB dual-channel kits. Although G.Skill hasn’t revealed the voltages, it’s likely they exceed JEDEC’s standard suggestions.
G.Skill has ensured their DDR5-6400 modules fit both AMD and Intel landscapes. On the AMD side, they’re set to enhance systems with EXPO profiles, like the Trident Z5 Neo RGB and Trident Z5 Royal Neo, especially when paired with AMD’s Ryzen 7000 and upcoming Ryzen 9000-series processors. For Intel, their XMP 3.0 profiles are compatible with models like the Trident Z5 RGB. Notably, these modules shine brightly within AMD’s AM5 systems, which typically cap out around 6000 MT/s to 6400 MT/s for DDR5 memory, syncing perfectly with AMD’s Infinity Fabric.
G.Skill does mention that, due to their non-standard nature, these modules might not be suited for every system. They’re best with top-tier motherboards that use adequately cooled CPUs.
Starting late August 2024, these cutting-edge low-latency memory kits will be available globally through G.Skill’s partners. While we await the pricing details, given their premium nature and distinctive specs, one can expect them to carry a price tag that reflects their uniqueness.