Testing
The following system was used to test the memory kit:
– Processor: Intel i9 9900K @ 5GHz
– Motherboard: ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming X
– Graphics Card: MSI GeForce RTX 2070 Super Gaming X Trio
– SSD: Crucial P2 500GB
– Mass Storage: GOODRAM IRDM PRO GEN.2 1TB
– PSU: Seasonic Snow Silent 750W Platinum
– CPU Cooler: SilverStone Permafrost PF240W-ARGB
– Case: Phanteks Enthoo Luxe
– OS: Windows 10 64-Bit (After April Update)
The RAM was tested using the CPU at its turbo frequency of 5 GHz. The memory was firstly tested using the standard X.M.P frequency while the second test was done with the memory at the maximum frequency reached while Overclocking. Each test was done a minimum of three times.
The Crucial Ballistix MAX RGB DDR4-4400MHz CL19 32GB has a good overclocking potential, as some other reviewers managed to reach above 5000MHz while overclocking. Unfortunately, in my case, the maximum overclock I was able to achieve was 4600MHz. While not as impressive as a 5200MHz overclock, 4600MHz is good, especially if the factory timings are used.
In addition, the RAM kit was also tested with the frequency lowered to 3866MHz and with the CAS Timings lowered to CL16, to showcase the overall performance difference between high frequency and high timings and low timings and frequency.
As always, when overclocking RAM, the best performance gains are achieved by having a good ratio between higher frequency and lower timings.
Stock settings
Overclock
Software used for testing the RAM Kit:
– CineBench R15
– Shadow of the Tomb Raider
– SuperPi 1.55 Mod
– AIDA64 Extreme Version: 6.32.5600
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
CineBench R15
AIDA64 Read/Write/Copy Benchmark
AIDA64 Latency Benchmark
SuperPi 1.55 Mod
Final thoughts
The Crucial Ballistix MAX RGB DDR4-4400MHz CL19 32GB is an interesting product that pushes the limits of consumer grade memory. The RAM kit is available for purchase for approximately 500USD or EUR. This is a high price, however a two-module kit, with a combined size of 32GB which is also running at 4400MHz with CL19 timings justifies the price.
The performance is very good and there is plenty of overclocking potential even after 4400MHz. However, these types of high frequency memory kits require additional set up in the Bios and some basic knowledge of RAM overclocking in order to work. In fact, some platforms/computers will not work at 4400MHz without increasing the voltage and changing some settings into the Bios.
The build quality is very good, starting with the fit and finish of the metallic heatsink, and ending with the plastic diffuser. In addition, the used components on the PCB of each RAM module are of high quality.
The overclocking is very good, while I was only able to achieve a 200MHz overclock, these RAM kits have been overclocked by others up and above 5000MHz. However, as always, the best overclocking is done by finding a good balance between lower timings and higher frequency.
The only inconvenient of this RAM kit is the same as for any RAM kits that are rated to work above 4200MHz. On some systems, running at 4400MHz from the first boot is not guaranteed, and some basic settings must be changed to achieve stability at such a high frequency. Another drawback of this product is the high price, at 500USD or EUR, it is not cheap by any margin.
In conclusion, the Ballistix MAX RGB DDR4-4400MHz CL19 32GB is a good RAM kit that offers a great overclocking potential and a good performance. The build quality is very good and the same can be said for the RGB implementation. However, the high price of 500USD will be hard to justify for some users.
Apparently it’s more difficult to reach high clocks with Micron ICs when using Intel-based systems.
Indeed, and also, it is heavily reliant on the memory controller on the CPU and also, on the Bios of the motherboard.