Maximum Overclocking...

Yeah we did some extra effort and tried to overclock these memory modules a bit more which ended up at a maximum of 255MHz HTT. The only doubt I have here if it is actually the memory or the Intel processor that is blocking us from going further. I guess some better cooling might have shed some light on this.

We couldn't run any benchmarks as the system would just reboot, so either the CPU couldn't handle the extra 75MHz overclock on top, which is most likely the case or we have found the maximum memory overclocking of 255MHz (510MHz DDR).

Final Thoughts

The Crucial Ballistix DDR500 PC-4000 2x 512MB Dual Channel Kit is a real screamer and with today's system requirements, it is ever increasing knowledge that in order to stay on the cutting edge of performance, extra ram capacity is a necessity. Currently 1024MB is the standard for most gaming enthusiasts on the prowl for more performance and smoother game play.

We are seeing 1024MB kits evolving into ultra low latency speed demons and the Ballistix version gives us a super bang for the buck. The Crucial Ballistix is rock steady and totally stable during all our benchmarks performed, not one blue screen or lagish type issues with these bad boys, the benchmarks suites ran flawless. The speeds are amazing and give ultra aggressive latencies for ultra fast performance.

Another note to add, call it a fluke or just a good combination of hardware, we were able to see an HTT of 255MHz at 1:1 with a multiplier of 15 on our Intel CPU. Wow, the system was very stable and gave us no BSOD's. On top of that we could get the system stable enough to at least get us to a Windows desktop. However we could only load CPU-Z for a screener. As soon as a benchmark was executed the system vomited on this configuration.

With outstanding performance and stability, combined with excellent overclocking head room, this ram is without a doubt the fastest sticks of DDR500 stuffed in our system, period. And if you are looking for some decent memory or performing an upgrade, I would definitely put this on my shopping list of upgrades and so should you! This ram is the awesome, Ballistix!

Pros

• Extremely gorgeous gold finish
• Excellent design and functionality
• Solid overclocking capabilities
• Hardcore speeds at DDR500 & DDR400
• Awesome stability, auto configuration
• Outstanding memory latency
  • 2-2-2-5 at 200MHz HTT
  • 2.5-3-3-7 at 250MHz HTT
• Covered by Crucial lifetime warranty
• Excellent for gamers and power users
• Competitive pricing

Cons

• N/A

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