G.Skill Launches Low Latency DDR5 Memory Modules: CL30 at 6400 MT/s

G.Skill made waves on Tuesday by unveiling its cutting-edge, ultra-low-latency DDR5-6400 memory modules, which come with a CAS latency of 30 clocks. This impressive achievement sets a new benchmark for DDR5-6400 memory sticks, making them some of the fastest on the market. These modules are set to be compatible with both AMD and Intel CPU systems.

As each new DDR memory generation rolls out, we see boosts in data transfer rates and an inevitable rise in associated latencies. For most users, increased bandwidth typically compensates for any performance hits due to these higher timings. However, certain applications thrive on lower latencies, making them crucial. It’s a tougher challenge to reduce latencies compared to ramping up transfer rates, which is why low-latency modules are rare finds in the tech landscape.

Yet, G.Skill seems to have cracked the code. By meticulously selecting top-tier DDR5 memory chips and crafting the right printed circuit boards, they’ve produced DDR5-6400 modules with outstanding CL30 timings. This is a significant leap from the standard CL46 timings recommended by JEDEC for this speed category. To put it into perspective, while JEDEC’s modules clock in at an absolute latency of 14.375 ns, G.Skill’s innovation slashes this to just 9.375 ns—a reduction of about 35%.

These DDR5-6400 CL30 modules, sporting 39-39-102 timings, are packed with 16 GB of memory and will be sold in 32 GB dual-channel kits. However, the specifics on voltages remain under wraps, though they likely exceed JEDEC’s standard specs.

G.Skill plans to cater to both AMD and Intel system users: AMD setups will benefit from EXPO profiles (Trident Z5 Neo RGB and Trident Z5 Royal Neo), while Intel systems will utilize XMP 3.0 profiles (Trident Z5 RGB and Trident Z5 Royal). Particularly for those using AMD’s AM5 systems, which have a practical memory throughput limit of 6400 MT/s due to AMD’s Infinity Fabric’s speed constraints, these new modules could prove especially valuable for the latest Ryzen 7000 and Ryzen 9000-series processors.

G.Skill does caution that due to their non-standard status, these modules won’t be compatible with every system. They do require high-end motherboards coupled with CPUs that are efficiently cooled.

The anticipated ultra-low-latency memory kits will start hitting shelves worldwide through G.Skill’s partners by late August 2024. While the company remains tight-lipped about the pricing, it’s clear these top-of-the-line products, with their standout specifications, will likely come with a premium price tag.