Choosing RAM -How do I avoid inferior models

Hi all,

I'm looking to buy some RAM and I see some really cheap ones. How do I know what's crap and what's not? Is it purely a brand thing?

Cheers,

 

A large part of it is how established the brand is. Not all RAM is created equal, and the big-name ones got to where they are for a reason. Generally speaking, anyone who offers you a limited life-time warranty and tech support at no charge is probably going to sell you a quality product.

What are you looking at so far? Links?

 

I agree with Mimsy on sticking with the better known name brands. Two other things to consider:

* Customer reviews at online retailers including Newegg.com and TigerDirect.com are great for sorting out the good from the bad. The reviews may also include tips on PCs or motherboards that have compatibility issues with the specific memory you're considering.

* Does the retailer offer have a decent return or exchange policy if the memory you buy is defective or doesn't play nice with your system? I'd rather spend a few extra bucks buying from a company who will take it back within a reasonable period of time (14-30 days) if the memory doesn't work.

 

Mimsy is the go-to gal for RAM information - I'd take what she says to heart.

Personally, I have had pretty good luck with Samsung RAM chips, or re-branded memory that uses Samsung chips . . . I generally choose them if I can when planning a new build. I've yet to have a failure, or find a motherboard that will not accept them.

 

Cheers guys,

I'll read some reviews on Newegg etc. b4 choosing.

 

not all low-priced ram is cheap either. I've had good experiences with kingston's value ram (kingston is a reputable brand) and also G-Skill (kinda low priced gaming ram) .