Today we will be reviewing a 8GB DDR3 memory kit from Crucial.com. The Crucial Ballistix Elite Series memory kit is targeted at "extreme enthusiasts, gamers, and uber-power users" - lets see if it earns that claim.



The promotional image above shows off the aggressive styling of the kit, and in the next section we'll learn more about what's under the hood of these two 4GB memory modules.

Features and Specifications:

The specifications for the Crucial Ballistix Elite Series memory kit are pretty standard. In this kit you will get 2x4GB memory sticks with 8-8-8-24 timings with a rated voltage of 1.5v. Additional details are listed below, as taken from the Crucial.com website.

» Memory Type: Desktop DDR3
» Part #: BLE2KIT4G3D1608DE1TX0
» Timings: 8-8-8-24
» Capacity: 8GB (4GB x2)
» Speed: DDR3-1600 (PC3 12800)
» Rated Voltage: 1.5 Volts
» Registered/Unbuffered: Unbuffered
» Error Checking: Non-ECC
» Type: 240-pin DIMM
» Warranty: Limited Lifetime

With memory timings in the 8s, this isn't the "fastest" 1600MHz DDR3 memory available. But when you consider the timings are rated at CL8 and the memory only needs 1.5v to accomplish DDR3-1600 speeds, that's actually quite good. The two memory modules in this kit are sandwiched between "black-finned integrated heat spreaders", which may allow the memory to remain a few degrees cooler if you're really pushing it.

This product does feature a built-in thermal sensor which allows for real-time temperature monitoring and recording using a free Windows application called the Crucial Ballistix MOD Utility, available directly from the Crucial website. Surprisingly this feature is not mentioned on the product packaging or listed on the Crucial website. I resorted to a Google search just to find the software (which is available in 32 and 64bit configurations).