Conclusion:

Overall, the Crucial Ballistix Tactical LP 16GB 1600MHz DDR3 Memory Kit performs similarly to the Crucial Ballistix Elite 8GB 1600MHz DDR3 kit we tested previously. Overclocking attempts netted up to 15% performance gains in some of our benchmarks. Overall we found the Tactical LP kit was capable of running stable at 1866MHz with slightly relaxed timings (9-9-9-24) at 1.5v.



According to the Bigbruin.com Shopping Pages, the The Crucial Ballistix Tactical LP 16GB kit can be purchased for about $152 shipped directly from Crucial. Loooking around finds that they sell for about $111 shipped if you purchase it directly from somewhere like Amazon.com. At first glance both prices seem pretty expensive, seeing as other 2x8GB kits are available for less than $70 shipped. But when you start comparing specifications of these competing memory kits you will soon realize the Tactical LP kit has much faster latency timings (CL8), lower operating voltage requirements (1.35v), and lets not forget the low profile design.

On the other hand, with the previously tested Crucial Ballistix Elite 8GB kit now down to $51 shipped via Amazon.com, the Elite kit makes for an enticing buy. In most conditions the Ballistix Elite performed marginally faster than the Tactical LP kit. If a low profile design is what you need - we recommend the Tactical LP kit. For a higher overclock you should weigh the benefits of the Ballistix Elite over the Tactical LP.

The Crucial Ballistix Tactical LP 16GB DDR3-1600MHz Memory Kit earns the Bigbruin.com "Recommended" award. This is an especially good kit if you need the low profile design to fit your configuration while still enjoying the benefits of high performance memory that can be overclocked.



Pros:

» Faster stock timings (CL8) than competing 16GB kits @ 1600MHz
» Stock voltage of 1.35v
» Capable of running at 1866MHz, at CL9 timings with 1.5v
» Low profile design should fit beneath any heatsink

Cons:

» At the current price of $111 shipped its a bit much for a 16GB kit, if you won't be overclocking or need the vertical clearance

Please drop by the Bigbruin.com Forum and feel free to post any comments or questions.