Crucial Pro Series Overclocking DDR5 6000Mhz Memory Review

Going into this review I was extremely curious about what Crucial ment by “Overclocking”.  Knowing that Micron DDR5 “isn’t all that great” at running fast but, does pretty good at running efficient at lower speeds.  This is not a good combination for overclocking unless you change what “Overclocking” means.  By changing the context, you open up a whole realm of possibilities.

The new Crucial DDR5 Pro Memory: Overclocking Edition modules feature a rather simple heatspreader design with an amazing anodized finish.  These unassuming modules offer some amazing out of box performance which matches performance numbers from similar products and can generally offer better specifications when you dive into the details. 

Currently you can acquire the Pro OC Edition memory as individual modules in both 16GB and 24GB densities or as dual channel kits with maximum densities of 36GB and 48GB respectively.  Both configurations offer the same speed grades of 6000Mhz (MT/s) and timings of CL36.  It goes without saying that DDR5 does have profound performance advantages over DDR4 so, if you are in the market, you owe it to yourself to go DDR5.

In terms of performance the DDR5-6000Mhz modules live up to their “Overclocking” roots but only so far as enabling an XMP/EXPO profile that is above the accepted JEDEC standards.  Pushing these modules beyond the 6000Mhz limit is not all difficult however voltage limitations will severely hinder any performance gains you will get.  With that being said I was able to boot the test system at 6600Mhz but ultimately lowered to 6500Mhz to improve memory timings and stability.  Sadly, the end result was not worth the effort given that just about every benchmark kicked out the same performance numbers.

While I tend to focus on performance in my reviews there are only a few instances where overall memory speed makes a difference in modern DDR5 computer systems.  As many of our benchmarks show there is a nice performance improvement when moving to higher speed memory and you should strive to get the fastest modules you can afford.  The 6200Mhz range is currently a sweet spot with DDR5 memory offering a good mix of timings and frequency while still showing noticeable gains in performance.  The Crucial Pro Memory: Overclocking edition modules offer a 6000Mhz speed grade and some amazing out of box performance due to the CL36 timings.  Sure, you can buy faster modules but, when you buy Crucial you also buy into their long track record of reliability and system compatibility. 

Legendary Crucial Compatibility
Great Performance
Expanded Frequency Options
Dual XMP/EXPO Memory Profiles
Simple Heatspreader Design

Not friendly to manual overclocks
Simple heatspreader design