Conclusion:
The bottom line on the Crucial Ballistix Tracer 4GB DDR3-1333 memory kit is that it offers great performance right out of the box, and for those looking for more, they will gladly oblige. While they may not have the highest stock speed rating, even a novice overclocker should be able to get a few hundred extra MHz out of this kit. The sample provided for review was stable at 1700MHz with minimal effort, and may be on the verge of 1800MHz operation with some more tweaking. Looking at other review sites will show that this is about par for the course, with some people hitting 1600MHz, 1800MHz, or even close to 2000MHz with these modules.
Even if you are not interested in overclocking, the stock performance was nothing to complain about. The 6-6-6-20 timings are rather tight, and test results at 1333MHz were respectable. Couple the performance with the interesting light show put on by the Tracer LEDs, Crucial's limited lifetime warranty, and their 30-day money-back compatibility guarantee, and you have a very appealing memory kit on your hands.
Despite being able to overclock well beyond the rated speed, 1333MHz DDR3 modules are currently the fastest in the Crucial Ballistix Tracer series. Crucial Ballistix memory without the flashing LEDs is available in speeds up to 1600MHz, 1800MHz, and even 2000MHz, but then only in 2GB capacity kits.
Searching the Internet for a price on the Crucial Ballistix Tracer 4GB DDR3-1333 memory kit doesn't lead you to too many results, and your best bet may be to buy directly from Crucial.com where the price is $199.99 (US). The first thing I checked is how much the LEDs on the Tracer series added to the price, and I was surprised to find that the same kit minus the light show was also $199.99. While the choice between the two equally matched Crucial kits will come down to your sense of style, selecting one of these kits over other brands may take more deliberation. There are plenty of other 4GB DDR3 kits on the market for considerably less money. While you might not be gauranteed the same features and performance, you can find plenty of similar kits rated at 1333MHz or 1600MHz for less.
Given the great performance, incredible overclocking potential, and unique appearance, the Crucial Ballistix Tracer 4GB DDR3-1333 memory kit earns the Bigbruin.com "Highly Recommended" award.
Pros:
» Capable of incredible overclocks
» Great performance at stock speed and timings
» Tight timings (for a 4GB kit of 1333MHz DDR3)
» Visual appeal of flashing LEDs
» Lifetime limited warranty
Cons:
» Some other 4GB 1333MHz and 1600MHz DDR3 kits cost much less
Special thanks to Crucial for providing the Crucial Ballistix Tracer 4GB DDR3-1333 Memory Kit to Bigbruin.com for review!
Please drop by the Bigbruin.com Forum and feel free to post any comments or questions.
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