One of the most crucial components of any computer is the type of memory used within a system. Offered in different styles, capacities, and speeds, a computer’s memory can severely affect performance when it comes to gaming, video editing or even internet browsing.
A computer’s random access memory (RAM) is used to store data that are currently being used, or have recently been used. Because the speed of access is independent of the position that the data are stored in, and because no mechanical components are used in data retrieval, data that are stored in RAM can be manipulated far more quickly than data that are stored on a hard drive. This is particularly important in processes such as video rendering. While a CPU is the fastest item in a computer, its memory capacity is limited. On the other hand, while a hard drive can hold a large amount of data, the speed of access is limited. RAM combines the advantage of both by having a decent amount of storage and high speeds of access.
Ever since the company’s start in 1987, Kingston’s focus on memory production has led them to where they are today. Even the company at which I work buys and uses Kingston Technology memory for their systems. The HyperX memory has developed into a world class gaming icon.
Welcome to my Kingston HyperX Savage 16GB 1866MHz memory review. Throughout my review, I will be discussing the design, performance, and my final thoughts. I would like to thank Kingston for providing the memory for this review.
The Design
Kingston’s precise focus on design gives the HyperX Savage an advantage over the large number of other memory brands on the market. Unlike the standard HyperX Fury memory, the HyperX Savage memory is manufactured in a single red color while the Fury has four color selections.
The design of the Savage memory begins with a small HyperX logo as well as an open hatched design located on the top to dissipate the heat. Additionally, it adds a flare for users with a windowed case.
Kingston’s attention to the red color offers a heat sink that is vibrant and blends in well when placed with a gaming motherboard, in my case a Gigabyte G1.Sniper Z97. Although I questioned the red design at first, once installed I welcomed the design and wouldn’t want to change.
Furthermore, Kingston has opted to use an all-black PCB rather than a blue or green one. This black PCB matches well with modern motherboards that use a black PCB as well.
Lastly, Kingston includes a small HyperX case badge for those who like to show what’s inside the system. One small design aspect to keep in mind is that if a third party CPU cooler is installed, beware of it obstructing your view of the memory because of the additional height of the heat sink.
System Performance
Running at a speed of 1866MHz in a dual 8GB configuration setup, the Savage memory offers power when needed, but doesn’t put a constant strain on the motherboard’s chipset. Ranging between speeds of 1600MHz up to 2400MHz as well as capacities between 4GB and 32GB, there should be a size and speed that fits your needs.
When using an Intel CPU, you may find that your new Savage 1866MHz memory will be running at the native speed of 1600MHz. This is due to Intel’s limitation and any speeds over 1600MHz put a load on your motherboard’s chipset. AMD on the other hand can run 1866MHz memory natively without a chipset load.
If you are running an Intel CPU, then after the memory installation is complete, log into your BIOS and make your way to the memory’s settings. You will need to enable the XMP profiles inside your BIOS to allow the memory to run at 1866MHz, otherwise your performance is limited and wasted.
On my Gigabyte G1.Sniper Z97 motherboard, I was able to achieve memory speeds of 1866MHz running at 1.5 volts, even though the memory can run at 1.65 volts maximum. Matched with an Intel i5-4690K, I was able to achieve the following when running the latest edition of Passmark’s Performance Test 8:
My experience with the Savage memory showed no limitations to any task I decided to run. The 16GB capacity allowed me to play games to their full potential and the speed allowed software like Photoshop to complete within minutes. It was joyful to never experience lag or a possible system crash.
My Final Thoughts
With its lifetime warranty, the Kingston HyperX Savage memory truly does offer a gamer’s design together with performance optimization. Furthermore, its wonderful red and black color scheme should match well with any system you place it in. Whether you’re a gamer, photo editor, or everyday user, you can’t go wrong picking up a pair of HyperX Savage memory sticks.
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1 Comment
good job