Different brands of DDR Memory

[Comp625]

Hello,

I am going to build a new system soon (Epox 8KHA+ KT266A with an XP 1600+ running on WinXP). As you all know, memory prices have been on the rise lately. Almost everyone here loves Crucial. However, are the other brands any good? Manufacturers like Mushkin, Corsair and Kingston are usually heavily advertised on newegg.com. I remember back in the PC100/133 RAM days, the love was spread equally for Muskin, Kingston, Crucial, Corsair, etc. But here, the favorite is clearly Crucial.

What are the Pros and Cons on the Mushkin, Corsair and Kingston PC2100 DDR ram sticks? Why would YOU fork some extra money over for a Crucial rather than saving or spending more on another manufacturer?

Here's what I'm thinking. I'd like to get 512mb of PC2100 RAM. I'm only 16 so saving money is an issue. Here's a list of some memory sticks that I am considering:

CORSAIR 512MB PC2100 DDR RAM - OEM - $168
CORSAIR 512MB PC2100 VALUE SELECT OEM - $162
CRUCIAL MICRON 256MB 32x64 PC 2100 DDR RAM - OEM - $79 * 2 = $158
KINGSTON KVR266X64C25/512 512MB DDR PC2100 - OEM - $137
DDRAM 512MB|64X64 PC-2100 MUSHKINAMD - $140
PNY 256MB 32x64 PC 2100 DDR RAM - RETAIL - $78 * 2 = $156

I am not considering to overclock my FSB, CPU or memory. Can you guys recommend me which stick to buy? Thanks!

 

[John]

If you aren't going to o/c, get the el cheapo stuff.

 

[Comp625]

Will the "el cheapo" stuff be less stable?

 

[RSMemphis]

Cheapo RAM can be a problem, brand name is definitely preferable.

There are good things to say about going with 1 or 2 sticks, so you need to weigh the options.

1 Stick: More room for upgrades
2 Sticks: If one stick fails, you can use your computer while RMAing your other stick.

I have used Crucial and Kingston, and I like both brands. Really, with the ones you listed, go with the cheapest one - there won't be too much difference.

When you order from Crucial, you get free FedEx shipping, so it may end up cheaper. Crucial DOES have 512 MB for $161, if you want to go that route.

 

[John]

No, not if you buy from your list above.