Memory Noob

[WuMyster]

I think its time for me to actually understand RAM properly. My builds and for others have always been picking the obvious choice that many people use and this method has never given me trouble.

I understand timings but speed is what confuses me.
Obviously, the higher the speed, the better. However, is buying a set of 2400MHZ RAM and buying 1600MHZ RAM and then OCing it to 2400MHZ the same thing?
Does buying the 2400MHZ RAM basically guarantee a speed of 2400mhz and buying a set of 1600mhz guarantees a speed of 1600mhz?

Also, what benefits do higher speeds, say 1600 vs 2400 give?

FYI, I have read around the forum and FAQ but im still not understanding this

 

[WuMyster]

So if I bought a lower frequency RAM and OCed it to, say for example, 2400MHz. Would it be the same as a 2400mhz kit?

 

[WuMyster]

Oh yeah, no doubt. It was just an example.
I guess Ill go with 1600mhz to save some money and see how far I can push it. I wont see much performance gain will I?