Conclusion:

Just as with the Ballistix Thermal kit we looked at back in July, the Crucial Ballistix Smart Tracer 6GB (3x2GB) PC3-12800 kit is very stable and offers solid performance. Based on our testing, it outperforms several other kits with the same or slightly better specifications. When overclocked though, we have a mixed bag of results depending on which benchmark you look at.

The extra features that Crucial have added to their standard Ballistix sticks not only give the consumer more bang for the buck, but make this a very attractive kit, considering that they're priced right in line with other 1600MHz triple channel kits.



As far as negative comments go, there isn't much to say. I'd prefer that Crucial used a different type of packaging, but that is unrelated to the memory's performance. And while the lighting options and controls add a novel new twist, there aren't any actual technological advances or features related to the memory itself. 1600MHz kits running at 8-8-8-24 have been around for a while now, and adding LED lighting doesn't do anything to improve performance.

A quick check of the Bigbruin.com shopping engine shows that this kit can currently be purchased directly from Crucial.com for $136.99, with free shipping. Heading over to Newegg.com finds a much more appealing price of $104.99!

When all is said and done, the Crucial Ballistix Smart Tracer 6GB (3x2GB) PC3-12800 kit earns the Bigbruin.com "Gaming Approved" and "Good Value" awards.



Pros:

» XMP profile for 8-8-8-24 timings at 1600MHz
» Thermal sensors and customizable lights give you added bang-for-your-buck
» Moderately priced compared to kits with similar specifications
» Limited lifetime warranty

Cons:

» Packaging takes some brute force to get open
» Innovations don't do anything for memory performance

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