Question Amazon listing has "Intel RAM" and "AMD RAM" options... what? Is there a difference?

[Steelbom]

I've always thought there's no such thing as "Intel RAM" or "AMD RAM". I.E., it should just work.
However, on this Amazon listing for Corsair Vengeance LPX RAM it mentions it's for "Intel" and also in the "style" dropdown box, one of the options is for "AMD" RAM.

My friend is wanting to buy the 2x8GB Black 3200MHz option for an AMD system... however he's concerned that it's Intel only. They also have a 3200MHz C16 AMD option which is slightly more expensive... not sure why?

These are the models from corsair themselves: CMK16GX4M2B3200C16 (Intel) and CMK16GX4M2Z3200C16 (AMD).

On the tech specs everything appears identical except for the SPD timings which for Intel are 15-15-15-36 and for AMD 16-18-18-35. Oh and also the SPD Speed for AMD is 2666MHz whilst for Intel only 2133MHz.

Is there a reason why this is?
Appreciate any input.

 

[DrMrLordX]

There is no difference. I have used Corsair Vengeance LPX on two AM4 systems. Both of those kits can run on AMD setups. They're just different ICs.

 

[IntelUser2000]

At most, it means they have tested it to work on those platforms at maximum ratings.

Doesn't mean it won't work. DIY hardware is pretty robust when it comes to compatibility. They have to be!

 

[Steelbom]

Thanks guys - appreciate the input!

 

[Fanatical Meat]

Regarding the timing and this is probably a major over simplification.
There is something about Ryzen CPUs and odd number timing. I forgot what it is but it can’t be 15-15-15 but it can be 14-14-14 (which is really hard) or 16-16-16.
I’m sure someone else can clear this up better.

 

[DrMrLordX]

Ryzen will select even timings unless geardown mode is enabled.

 

[Rigg]

Info on gear down mode here:

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