On Tuesday, G.Skill announced a breakthrough in memory technology with the launch of their ultra-low-latency DDR5-6400 modules. These new modules boast a CAS latency of just 30 clocks, setting a new benchmark as the industry’s most efficient DDR5-6400 sticks. They’re designed to support both AMD and Intel systems, offering flexibility and performance.
As each new DDR memory generation emerges, we typically see a rise in data transfer rates accompanied by an increase in latency. For most software, this is a fair trade-off, as the extra bandwidth compensates for slower timings. However, certain applications still prioritize low latency, making the development of low-latency modules a challenging feat. It’s no surprise they don’t come around often.
Yet, G.Skill has successfully managed to select the finest DDR5 memory chips and pair them with cutting-edge printed circuit boards, creating DDR5-6400 modules that operate with CL30 timings. This is a significant improvement over the CL46 timings specified by JEDEC for these modules. To put it in perspective, while JEDEC-standard modules have an absolute latency of 14.375 ns, G.Skill’s impressive creation reduces this to just 9.375 ns—a remarkable reduction of approximately 35%.
Each DDR5-6400 CL30 39-39-102 module from G.Skill comes with a 16 GB capacity, available as part of a 32 GB dual-channel kit. Although G.Skill hasn’t released specific voltage details, you can expect them to exceed JEDEC’s standard specifications.
These advanced modules are set to make their mark on systems using AMD’s EXPO profiles, namely the Trident Z5 Neo RGB and Trident Z5 Royal Neo, as well as Intel-powered PCs with XMP 3.0 profiles, namely the Trident Z5 RGB and Trident Z5 Royal. Particularly for AMD AM5 systems, with their real-world limit of 6000 MT/s – 6400 MT/s for DDR5 memory relative to AMD’s Infinity Fabric speed, the introduction of these modules will provide a boost to the Ryzen 7000 and 9000-series processors.
It’s important to note, as G.Skill mentions, that these modules are not standardized, meaning they won’t be compatible with every system. They’ll perform optimally with high-end motherboards and well-cooled processors.
Expect to see these cutting-edge memory kits from G.Skill’s distribution partners worldwide by late August 2024. While pricing details remain under wraps, the innovative features and specs suggest a premium price tag is in order.