Is 3000MHz RAM Good for Ryzen Processors?

When it comes to running your AMD Ryzen PC, the choice of RAM can significantly impact performance. Many users recommend a minimum of 3200MHz for Ryzen due to its efficiency and compatibility with most motherboards (MoBs). Nevertheless, any RAM speed above 2133MHz is often considered overclocked, and optimizing the speed can help achieve better system stability and performance.

Default RAM Speeds and BIOS Settings

In my Ryzen gaming PC, equipped with a B550 motherboard from ASRock, I have 3600MHz Ripjaws V Series 32GB DDR4. However, upon startup, the system defaults to 2133MHz. This default speed is a fallback setting, especially when the BIOS needs to be reset due to failed DRAM training, which is typically indicated by an 'OD' (Overdrive) error. I have encountered this error a few times and found it to be quite inconvenient, requiring multiple shutdowns and sometimes even reinserting the RAM for the system to boot up properly.

ASUS recommends running RAM at 2133MHz when performing critical system updates, as 2133MHz is considered a default speed. This default often reflects the motherboard's settings, and the system adjusts RAM timings and frequencies accordingly. Memory chips with faster timings and low CAS (Column Address Strobe) frequency can be significantly more expensive, but they offer better performance.

Considering Different RAM Speeds

Above 2133MHz, RAM can be overclocked. However, if your motherboard and RAM support it, you can opt for 3200MHz. To enable this, you need to adjust settings in the BIOS. Look for the DOCP (Direct Over Clock Profile), which is similar to Intel's XMP (eXtreme Memory Profile). A good motherboard should recognize the installed RAM type and adjust all relevant settings, including frequency and timings.

For example, the recently released ASUS Mini PC PN50, based on AMD Ryzen 4000 Series Renoir Mobile Processor with Radeon Vega 7 Graphics, utilizes laptop memory and recommends a 3200MHz DDR4 speed. According to the manufacturer's website, the PN50 also supports 2933MHz, 2800MHz, 2666MHz, and 2400MHz, as well as the default 2133MHz.

RAM Speed Matters, Especially for Integrated Graphics

The impact of RAM speed varies by system setup. Dedicated GPUs benefit less from faster RAM, but machines with integrated graphics, like the Ryzen-based mini PC, where the GPU shares memory with the CPU, see more significant performance improvements from faster RAM. As such, if you have APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) chips with integrated graphics, it's advisable to choose the fastest RAM available.

Additionally, remember that a dual-channel setup can further enhance performance, especially if you have paired identical RAM modules. This setup allows for simultaneous data transfer, significantly improving bandwidth and reducing latency.

Ensuring Compatibility and System Stability

While memory speed can greatly affect performance, it’s equally important to choose RAM that is specifically supported by your motherboard and BIOS. Some RAM models may not be fully recognized or may only run at slower speeds, leading to system instability, crashes, and BSODs. Therefore, always check user reviews and compatibility lists to ensure that the RAM you choose will work properly with your system.

In conclusion, while 3000MHz RAM can offer good performance improvements for Ryzen processors, always verify compatibility and follow the recommendations of your motherboard manufacturer to ensure optimal system performance and stability.