Now that we have benchmarked this memory and performed a bit of overclocking, it is time to put everything into perspective. We will go over which platform this memory kit is best suited for, what G.SKILL could improve upon to make a better product, and finish up on a positive note.
The first thing always worth mentioning in these reviews is compatibility for both Intel and AMD. Given that there are just so many different system configurations possible, it is hard to give an absolute yes or no to what will work. However, a general range of support can be suggested for the best chances of success. Even though G.SKILL does not mention AMD support on the packaging or website for this specific memory kit, it will in fact work since XMP profiles do load up on AM5 motherboards. However, it is still not recommended being paired with a Ryzen 7000 CPU. To get slightly technical here, the reason is due to how CPU memory controller functions. Ever since the AMD AGESA 1.0.0.7b update, motherboards now have the option to allow the system memory to operate in a 2:1 ratio to the CPU memory controller. This does offer much greater compatibility, but comes with a disadvantage due to how the memory controller will increase latency and negatively impacts performance in a 2:1 ratio configuration. What this all alludes to, is that not all motherboards and Ryzen 7000 CPUs can handle dual-rank 6400 MT/s memory in this optimal 1:1 ratio, forcing the system into 2:1 mode that is far from ideal. G.SKILL has other memory kits better suited for AMD systems. In the right system, it is great, but not everyone will have this same experience.
Being that this is marketed exclusively for Intel, still, it is not quite plug and play on all systems. Mainly, the Intel 12th Generation (K) Processor is at fault here. Looking back, by being the first CPU to support DDR5, it was great for what it accomplished. However, depending on the silicon quality, 12th Gen CPUs also max out around 6800-7400 MT/s for daily use for single-rank memory and 6000-6400 MT/s for dual-rank (this kit). Simply put, the G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB DDR5-6400 64 GB kit being reviewed here is best paired with an Intel 13th or 14th Generation (K) Processor. For those who are still unsure what motherboards are supported, G.SKILL does have its own QVL list, which leans on the cautious side without any 12th Gen CPUs or Z690 motherboards on the list either.
With that out of the way it's time to focus on the benefits that higher-capacity memory kits can provide. It's not too long ago that 64 GB was only found in enterprise and workstations. The HEDT platform from both AMD and Intel was a prosumer level product line, where those extra memory slots could be filled to fit the needs of memory-demanding applications. Fast-forward to DDR5 and 32 GB has become the standard, with dual-rank options coming in at 64 GB and 96 GB using just two DIMMs. The question of why not just use four DIMMS instead of two often comes up for those looking to get the best deals. This has a lot of variables to contend with. The simplest explanation of why this isn't a good idea is that AMD Ryzen and Intel Core processors are designed for dual-channel, or rather, two memory modules installed in total. While a lot of motherboards do have four slots for memory, they come with a certain level of unpredictability when fully populated. For example, the AMD Ryzen 7000 series only officially supports DDR5-3600 when four modules are used (not a typo). While you can go above what is officially supported by AMD, the actual limit will change based on the number of memory ranks and the quality of the CPU IMC (integrated memory controller). In short, two DIMMS will give the highest compatibility.
While this particular G.SKILL memory kit size is more than enough for the average user, its main target is gamers that are also content creators and or streamers. Often, large projects require compromises to avoid applications from crashing due to a lack of memory, and this is where more system memory brings a major uplift to the production workflow. It is not uncommon to use software such as Open Broadcaster Software (OBS), or Discord with a few web browser tabs open while streaming live on Twitch or YouTube. Extra system memory allows for expanded workflows that were simply not possible before. This could also be used also for office work and multiple virtual machines (VM) running simultaneously, but realistically, those types of applications will only benefit from the total amount available, not the higher frequency or enthusiast-class primary timings this G.SKILL memory kit offers.
When it comes to overclocking beyond the XMP profile, the first thing that needs to be mentioned every time this topic comes up is that no amount of overclocking beyond the binned DRAM XMP profile is ever guaranteed by the memory manufacturer. This is repeatedly echoed in every memory review to avoid setting unrealistic expectations. The only major disappointment of this overclocking adventure was that this G.SKILL memory kit does not have the SK Hynix branding on the ICs; instead, G.SKILL uses its own part number on the memory chips. While no other manufacturer currently can match SK Hynix in this configuration, as unlikely as it may be, this opens up the possibility that in the future, batches of any brand or IC revision can be used. Out of principle, I cannot suggest buying this memory kit if overclocking will be pursued. That being said, this memory kit performed well beyond expectations in the overclocking department! Though, it has no affect on the actual product review as you should always buy the bin you want unless you enjoy spending countless hours tweaking memory to fit your needs.
As we wrap up this review, it is time to reflect on the last two years. DDR5 launched alongside Intel's 12th generation CPUs, with speeds of upwards of 5600 MT/s. A few months later, 6400 MT/s appeared. Today in early 2024, retail memory kits are reaching upwards of 8400 MT/s. When I reviewed the G.SKILL Trident Z5 DDR5-6400 32 GB memory kit, I said it was the "next evolution of DDR5." It also came with a staggering price tag of $480. Now we have a 64 GB version with the same XMP profile for half that price. However, the fundamentals of how system memory impacts game performance haven't changed. The cycle of optimization has no end, and it is only when the system is "CPU Bound" does the frame rate become more dependent on the processor and subsequently the system memory as well. Once those requirements are meet, you can enjoy the higher frame-rate and better 1% lows thanks in part to the enthusiast tier memory timings. The extra system memory allows for that optimized workflow during live streams and while editing content. Is this G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB DDR5-6400 64 GB strictly for those types of users? Not necessarily, but those are the ones who will see the greatest uptick in performance. This G.SKILL memory kit may not be the absolute top-tier of today, but it fits in well and is worth considering if you are a content creator and gamer that will take advantage of the high capacity.
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