OCZ Technology SLI-Ready 2GB DDR3-2000 Memory Kit

Conclusion:

The OCZ Technology SLI-Ready 2GB DDR3-2000 dual channel memory kit is almost ahead of its time. The eVGA 790i motherboard does support SLI-Ready memory up to 2000MHz, but it did have some trouble staying stable at that speed. Testing really didn't show much advantage over a ‘slower’ kit, and if you can run with tighter timings at lower speeds you may be better off.

This was my first SLI-Ready memory kit, and also my first time using EPP. I have to admit it is nice to set it to “auto” and let it manage all memory specific settings on its own. I did want to see if I could push the kit past the rated 2000MHz, but I had enough trouble getting it 100% stable at 2000MHz. Even a little over 2000MHz would almost guarantee Windows would not load. After many hours of trying to get the kit stable with the stock speed and timings I just could not get the system 100% game stable. Instead of tinkering even more than I did, I decided to lower the memory speed to 1600MHz and run with tighter timings (8-8-8-23 and 1T).

With a quick search for this kit on the Internet, I found it on Newegg.com for about $120 (after a $30 rebate, but before tax/shipping). With DDR2 prices dirt cheap one would have to wonder who would pay this much for a 2GB kit of RAM. If you have a DDR3 only motherboard you have no choice, and those who are buying a new system should get a DDR3 board because it is the future.

Pros:

» The kind of speed that nerds dream about
» EPP profiles make getting up to speed easy with the right motherboard
» Price is competitive with lower speed DDR3 memory
» Runs great at lower speeds with tighter timings (for example: 1600MHz, 8-8-8-23 and 1T)
» OCZ Technology lifetime warranty

Cons:

» Stability issues at 2000MHz
» Benchmarks show that 2000MHz isn't that great

Special thanks to OCZ Technology for providing the OCZ Technology SLI-Ready 2GB DDR3-2000 Memory Kit to Bigbruin.com for review!