HyperX Predator DDR4 3000Mhz CL15 Quad Channel Memory Review

Some people feel that overclocking is a highly complex matrix of voltages and timings but many are quick to forget that overclocking is all around us and can even be purchased.  While store bought overclocks may not have the same allure that you can get from high end extreme overclocking the end results are quite similar and quite safe. 

In this review we looked at the HyperX Predator DDR4 3000Mhz CL15 performance memory kit.  These are a new breed of memory designed for the Intel X99 and despite looking slower on paper are actually quite good.  The HyperX Predator DDR4 is available in a variety of speeds starting at 2133Mhz and ending at 3000Mhz which also represents some of the fastest memory you can buy without resorting to overclocking.  So the question is, "will buying 3000Mhz memory benefit my system"?

The answer is most definitely Yes, with some fine print to follow.

As our benchmarks showed running the HyperX Predator modules using the 3000Mhz XMP profile did show nominal gains over the slower 2666Mhz profiles proving that there is a benefit.  However, in the real world many people would be hard pressed to notice any difference which brings up a point of efficiency and compatibility.

In our benchmarks we tested both of the HyperX Predator XMP Profiles because there are instances where certain motherboards *cough* Gigabyte X99 SOC Force */cough* cannot support the rated speed of the module but, can support the lower speed.  This is beneficial for two reasons.  First: it gives you options to run a different speed that is supported or more stable.  This is especially true if your motherboard has been deemed obsolete for some reason or another.  Second: There is a performance benefit for running high speed modules at a lower speed.  For instance the Predator modules proved to be faster than the Corsair LPX modules at 2666Mhz mostly due to better timings. 

Performance aside the Predator modules are quite stylish and while they lack fancy lights, multicolor heatspreaders and diagnostic ports they do come with some excellent looking heatspreaders that are extremely sturdy and carry a good weight.  The only real downside is module height and happens to be common amongst most performance memory on the market.  Given that these stand a little over 2 inches tall you will encounter clearance issues with some high performance air coolers.  This can be avoided by doing some cooler research beforehand or simply going with a high quality AIO watercooler.

Dual XMP Profile
High Speed Modules
Solid Heatspreader
Badass Black Color
Good Overclocking Potential

Module height
Incompatible with some motherboards