What are the differences between the different DDR modules supported?

[SpikeyNL]

Just read in this article that my choice of Crosair 3200XLPRO wasn't the best choice I could make. Now, I'm wondering what the differences are between memory modules operating at different Mhz's. My motherboard supports DDR266/333/400/433/466/500/533 modules. But what are the differences and how should I decide what to choose? I didn't find one yet, but a good article will also do as an answer although a good 'learning' disccusion in this forum is well appreciated to.
Thanks!
Spikey

 

[EazyVG]

Hey, you already have a ready system with the MSI board. I am still waiting for my MSI motherboard.

Regarding the memory, I have chosen OCZ 2x512MB PC4000/DDR500 EL Dual Channel with 3-4-4-8 timings.
The first reason to buy this ram is the OCZ, then it is DDR500 and above all it is the price. This RAM can easily overclock
to 520-530, maybe 540 with 2.85V.

Of course there is a better RAM from OCZ such as the PC-3700 Platinum EB rev.2 with 3-3-2-8 and the PC4000 Gold rev.2 with 2.5-3-3 timings. But they cost more than the PC4000 EL that I will get, instead of my old Patriot DDR500.

Comparing DDR400 and DDR500, the later is good for S939 as you are sure that the RAM will work in sync with your processor while being overclocked. This brings the true potential of 1000Mhz HT, while it doesn't make a much difference in performance, but the RAM and CPU in sync is always much better.

The tighter timings mean that the RAM is faster and at the same time it can be overclocked higher compared to RAM with loosen timings.

It is very simple. S939 can handle DDR500 with ease, not like it was with Athlon XP series.
If you can spend more on RAM, it is always better to go with RAM sticks that have tighter timings while keeping higher DDR spec.

 

[KDKPSJ]

Anything beyond 400 depends on your overclocking wishes, since the max FSB *officially* available is FSB200 for both Intel and AMD. If you will use everything at stock setting or overclocking with multiplier only, I would say DDR433 and higher is just too much for your needs. But if you plan higher FSB and sync DDR with FSB, DDR433 and higher will be very useful. So, everything depends on your desire to OC.