Is this memory worth it??

Computer Forum New Build / Upgrade Advice
1

Hi, I am currently in the task of upgrading my comp to a core 2 duo based system. I have almost all the parts except RAM and a MOBO.
I am waiting on the abit AW9D Max coming out soon as choice of MOBO but can not decide on what RAM to buy.
I had initialy decided on the Mushkin XP2-6400 4-4-3-10

2Gb Mushkin DDR2 XP2-6400 4-4-3-10 Dual Channel kit – Memory-Configurator.co.uk

however these new G Skill modules have come out that are PC8000 and run on timings 4-4-4-5

2Gb G.Skill DDR2 PC2-8000 HZ Series 4-4-4-5 Dual Channel kit – Memory-Configurator.co.uk

Is it worth the extra £100 for the G Skill RAM??

My set-up will be:

Abit AWD9 Max
Intel Core 2 duo 6400
??RAM??
Asus EAX800XT PLatinum Edition w/Zalman Fatal1ty VGA cooler
2* Western Digital Raptor 150Gb 10.000rpm
Creative Fatal1ty X-fi
Sony DVD-RW
Mitsumi FDD + 7in1 card reader
Hiper Type-R 580w

2

Are you going to be overclocking this system?

You might also consider the Crucial Ballistix or OCZ XTC lines of DDR2 as well, and even Corsair XMS.

3

Thanks for the quick reply.

Yes I will be overclocking this system.

I have looked into all of the memory manufacturers and what they have to offer and Mushkin and G Skill seem best.

The Mushkin XP2-6400 offers excellent timings for the price and is highly overclockable.

The G Skill is the only memory out at present that has timings 4-4-4-5 at PC8000. the only thing that comes close is Mushkins RedLine XP2-8000 at 4-5-4-11.

What I really need to know is whether the G Skill is worth a £100 more than the Mushkin XP2-6400. Is it more future proof??

4

It has slightly faster timings in some area’s, but it’s not worth an extra £100, IMO.