OCZ Blade 3x2GB PC3-16000 CL7 Memory Review

Conclusion

We have definitely seen Goliath flex his muscles today. The OCZ Blade PC3-16000 7-8-7 kit of memory is a monster, a man playing amongst boys having his way with whoever he chooses. The rated specifications of such a memory kit already put it into the upper echelon of memory, but the ability of our sample to clock at the various timings really makes this kit special. From a benchmarker’s perspective, this is the ultimate choice in memory. Good Elpida Hyper IC's are a gift that the benching community has welcomed with open arms, and the OCZ Blade sample we looked at today was a very good example of what Elpida Hyper is capable of. Obviously results are going to vary as there are an endless number of variables, but being binned this high, the OCZ Blade PC3-16000 kits should all impress their new owners.

With all this praise does come some questions. For benchmarking, this kit should be at the top of everyone's list...but what about for 24/7 use? With the price tag associated with the OCZ Blade PC3-16000 memory, we obviously can not recommend everyone to run out and buy this memory for their system. If you are benchmarking then yes, this memory would be a wise investment. With our testing, however, we have a tough time recommending this kit for everyone.

On top of the price tag and the inconclusive benchmarks questioning the use of all the bandwidth this memory provides, there is also the simple fact that this memory takes knowledge to run. No XMP profile and inherit complications with running memory at the incredible frequency of DDR3-2000 equate this memory to a high-end bicycle or exotic sports car purchase. A certain level of knowledge and equally high-end components are going to be required to get the most out of it. As mentioned though, there is an OCZ community and great support staff ready to help owners do just that.

With our thoughts on this OCZ Blade memory known for 24/7 use, let us gush a little bit more about just how much fun it was working with this kit. On a personal level as a competitive benchmarker, I cannot express my enthusiasm enough for this kit of memory. I am a self admitted 32M SuperPi addict and this memory has provided me the ability to take the i7 to new personal bests. Being able to bench all day long at 1100MHz in 3D benches is an absolute blast. As all benchmarkers know, there are key pieces to your tool box, and this OCZ Blade PC3-16000 kit will be a major part of mine right through the i7 hardware cycle.

• PC3-16000 7-8-7-20 1.65v...need we say more
• Built with the best of the best available components
• Ability to clock at a range of timing sets from tight to extremely tight
• Overclocking headroom with the right setup
• A benchmarker’s wet dream set of memory

• PC3-16000 7-8-7-20 1.65v...the specifications require a certain level of knowledge to run
• An equally strong processor required to run rated speeds, some just won't
• To truly get the most out of this kit, an exceptional CPU is needed...or sub-zero cooling

Despite the almost tick for tack positive and negative list above, it would impossible for us not to provide the Hardware Canucks Dam Good award to a kit of memory that runs in excess of DDR3-2200 at 7-8-7 for benchmarking.