Dumb question re RAM selection on overclocking

Kordi · 28 Sep 2013 at 06:43

OK gotta ask as I'm trying to buy RAM atm which is expensive and hard to get (live in NZ) so I need to ask a dumb question that I really should know. I'm getting a 4770k and the GB Z87X OC board, I want to overclock it 4.5 would be really nice but anything over 4 would keep me happy. With that in mind can I get 1600mhz RAM and still overclock my chip or do I have to buy slightly faster RAM (i.e. would 1600mzh RAM prevent me from overclocking).

I ask as I saw a 2 x 8GB 1600mhz corsair Vengence low profile CL9 over here but I read a post saying that particular ram does not overclock so well. I have tried looking for the new corsair vengence pro but I can only get 1600mhz versions not the 1866mhz versions. I did look for some reasonably priced patriot or teamgroup at faster speeds but out of stock, I am told they can get it but its gonna cost 15-20% more with the store blaming the recent fire.

So if I want to overclock should I be getting faster ram? opps I rambled ...
Any advice much appreciated

Threepwood · 28 Sep 2013 at 08:13

Your RAM speed will not affect overclocking your CPU.

The quality of your motherboard/PSU/Heatsink/Case air flow/luck of the draw with your chip, will

If we are talking a big difference where you are located than just pitch for the 1600 ram. You never know the RAM might clock a bit faster or you might get the timings tighter.

You can still play around with overclocking the RAM but the type of RAM will not affect your ability to overclock your CPU (on the multiplier anyway, discounting BLCK... but lets not worry about that right now)

Kordi · 28 Sep 2013 at 13:56

Cheers for that, it's been a while since I last overclocked my q6600 has lasted me well. So for the main part I can leave the ram at 1600 MHz and still clock my CPU independently?

Anyone know what the corsair vengeance pro 1600 can be overclocked by with it being fairly new ram? Still have to do a lot to look up!

Threepwood · 28 Sep 2013 at 22:59

Cheers for that, it's been a while since I last overclocked my q6600 has lasted me well. So for the main part I can leave the ram at 1600 MHz and still clock my CPU independently?

Yep.