Best DDR memory for new system

[zrider]

I am trying to decide on which DDR memory best for my new system

Intel 1.6A-ASUS P4S333-Leadtek A250 G4-Toshiba SDM1502-Plextor 40X24X10-

I've been looking at 512MB Corsair DDR2700 CAS2- I also looked at Mushkin and OCZ DDR2700 or DDR3000 which is now available at Newegg,but don't know anything about the company OCZ. Any suggestion? Also what is the real noticeable difference between CAS2 and CAS2.5?

 

[John]

Do a search for ocz and you will find a slew of negative feedback. It is a real hit or miss. I would recommend you buy Mushkin,Crucial, or Kingmax if you are shopping @ newegg.

 

[zrider]

Thanks

 

[Mithrander]

From what I've heard, CL 2 vs CL 2.5 is generally unnoticeable. It's more of "it's a nice thing to have" rather than "it really boosts my computer's performance". However, if it's not that much more expensive, go for it. Never hurts, esp since the value of most computer parts depreciate quite quickly. (I.e. for resale value, etc.)

Mushkin makes very good special and high performance RAM. Their basic RAM uses Winbond and some other company's ram chips, with some Nanya and no-names. Most people have no problems with the Mushkin Basic Ram, but if you're going to overclock or just want high quality RAM, go for the special or high perf.

I think Corsair's ram has a solid reputation - from the forums around here and others, there aren't many complaints. It's a solid buy either way.

Stay away from OCZ - the list of defects, DOA, and bad ram chips runs a mile long. Memory is one of the most crucial determining factors for your system's performance - it's not worth it to skimp on this component.

Samsung's DDR333 chips have received good reviews, but just pricey. With Crucial's crazy price increases, samsung and mushkin are pretty much the best alternatives for high quality, high performance ram.

Good luck.

 

[dbwillis]

Im using that same setup with Crucial DDR266..its running stably at DDR333 at 2.7v (thats +.2v)