Performance Theory

[kcbass]

Is it better to buy:

1066 MHz(PC2 8500) with timings 5-5-5-15

or

900 MHz(PC2 7200) with timings 4-4-3-15?

 

[Yellowbeard]

That's not really enough info to answer the question properly. However, at face value, the 8500 memory would most likely be the better of the 2. If you slowed it to the 7200 speed it will likely run the same latencies as the 7200. However, there is less chance comparitively that the 7200 will run at PC8500 speeds.

But, other factors play into it all so PC8500 may not be "better", especially if you are not going to OC.

 

[kcbass]

If I have other info that would be helpful, I can give it to you....what else would you need?

 

[kcbass]

Also, if I do not plan to OC, is it even worth going above ddr2-800?

 

[BenchZowner]

Not really, performance-wise you gain nothing ( in real-life, not in benchmarks ).
So if you're sure about not overclocking, any simple DDR2-800 kit will be more than fine 🙂

 

[kcbass]

I wouldn't say I'm sure about not overclocking, but it wouldn't be too far out to say that I'm not sure about overclocking

 

[Yellowbeard]

OCing, your CPU, and your MOBO will play into the memory choices. But, if you don't plan to OC at all, ever, then buy the least expensive memory kit you can find from a reputable maker of your choice.

 

[kcbass]

Ok, thanks