Best RAM for AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X in 2020

Corsair Vengeance RAM
Corsair Vengeance RAM (Image credit: Rich Edmonds / Windows Central)

When you're ready to leave standard desktop-class processors and want something with a little more power, Threadripper is more than up for the job, and the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X is a killer CPU. To make the most of this thing, you'll need some decent RAM. We've rounded up some of our favorites. Threadripper supports quad-channel support, so if we recommend a kit with two sticks, buy two of them for better performance.

Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB Kit

Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB Kit

Rippin' Threads

AMD recommends to use speedy RAM with the Threadripper 3970X, and this kit from Corsair has a clock speed of 3,200MHz, which is the sweet spot in terms of RAM performance and value. The two modules are also reasonably affordable, costing just $40 per 8GB RAM stick. Buy two of these kits.

G.SKILL Trident Z Royal Gold 16GB Kit

G.SKILL Trident Z Royal Gold 16GB Kit

Good Looks

While you won't be able to gaze at your fancy new Threadripper processor, you can pick up some fancy-looking RAM to set your PC apart from other builds. This 16GB kit from G.SKILL does just that with stunning looks and RGB lighting. It's also nimble enough for the CPU. Add two of these premium kits to your PC.

Corsair Vengeance RGB PRO

Corsair Vengeance RGB PRO

RGB Capacity

So you've got quite the number of tasks lined up for your PC and 16GB just isn't going to cut it. This is where 32GB kits come into play. By going with four 8GB modules, you're enabling quad-channel support while leaving room for further expansion. This kit also has some RGBs.

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Shopping around for RAM generally requires you to choose a kit that rocks a clock speed of 3,200MHz for modern processors, which includes the Ryzen Threadripper 3970X. Just be sure to check latency ratings, too, as these can affect overall memory performance. You will also need a compatible motherboard.

We recommend the Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB Kit because it offers excellent value for money with enough speed to keep up with the Ryzen Threadripper 3970X. The two 8GB sticks allow you to add a further two at a later date for a total of 32GB at 3,200MHz.

If you find most RAM a little dull to gaze at, you'll want the G.SKILL TridentZ kit, which is genuinely insane with colorful design matched with RGB lighting. The one we've highlighted in this collection also rocks a clock speed of 3,200MHz and would pair up well with the Threadripper.

Rich Edmonds
Senior Editor, PC Build

Rich Edmonds was formerly a Senior Editor of PC hardware at Windows Central, covering everything related to PC components and NAS. He's been involved in technology for more than a decade and knows a thing or two about the magic inside a PC chassis. You can follow him on Twitter at @RichEdmonds.