On Tuesday, G.Skill unveiled its cutting-edge DDR5-6400 memory modules, boasting an ultra-low latency of just 30 cycles. This remarkable figure sets a new standard for DDR5-6400 sticks, positioning them as some of the fastest on the market. Whether you’re using an AMD or Intel CPU, these new modules are ready to enhance your system.
Every leap forward in DDR memory technology brings with it higher data transfer speeds and, typically, greater latencies. Although the increased bandwidth usually compensates for this, some applications greatly benefit from reduced latency. Despite the challenges—since reducing latency is often more difficult than ramping up data transfer rates—low-latency modules remain scarce.
Yet G.Skill seems to have pulled off a feat by selecting premium DDR5 memory chips and crafting specialized printed circuit boards to deliver DDR5-6400 modules with CL30 timings. This is a significant improvement over the JEDEC-recommended CL46 timings for this speed grade. While JEDEC-standard modules show an absolute latency of 14.375 nanoseconds, G.Skill’s impressive modules trim that down to just 9.375 nanoseconds—around a 35% reduction.
The DDR5-6400 CL30 39-39-102 modules by G.Skill come in 16 GB sizes, available in dual-channel kits of 32 GB. The company hasn’t specified the voltage, which is likely higher than JEDEC’s standard figures.
These modules are designed for versatility, supporting both AMD systems with EXPO profiles (like the Trident Z5 Neo RGB and Trident Z5 Royal Neo) and Intel systems with XMP 3.0 profiles (such as the Trident Z5 RGB and Trident Z5 Royal). Particularly for AMD’s AM5 systems—where the practical threshold hits around 6000 MT/s to 6400 MT/s due to AMD’s Infinity Fabric limits—these modules will be a boon, especially for Ryzen 7000 and 9000-series CPUs.
G.Skill does caution, however, that these aren’t your run-of-the-mill modules. They won’t be compatible with all systems and are best paired with high-performance motherboards that have efficient CPU cooling solutions.
Set to launch worldwide through G.Skill’s partners in late August 2024, these top-tier memory kits have not yet been priced. Given their standout features and specifications, it’s safe to assume they’ll come with a premium price tag to match their performance potential.
