In our ADATA XPG V2 DDR3-2400 dual-channel memory kit review, we mentioned how the kit is already a great value for its price range but we understand that a lot of folks don’t need the speed of DDR3-2400. We’re taking a look once again at that memory kit, this time around we’re focusing on the mid-range ADATA XPG V2 DDR3-1866 memory kit with a lower price tag. These modules are aimed at mainstream gamers and budget-conscious performance seeker looking for above-average memory for their systems. Let’s see if the modules have more to them than what we expect.
ADATA is a top competitor in the DRAM market and has been slowly eating up SSD market shares lately but their high-end RAM products have a huge mountain to climb even though it has been in the market for a good length of time. This can be attributed more to the aggressive competition and that ADATA has yet to really soup-up their catalogs. One thing is pretty sure though, the ADATA XPG V2 memory series are some sweet-looking kit
[section label=”Closer Look”]
Closer Look
Note: These images are from our ADATA XPG V2 dual-channel memory kit reviewÂ
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[section label=”Performance Testing”]
Performance Testing &Â Overclocking
Test Setup:
Processor: Intel Core i7 4770K
Motherboard:Â ASUS Z97-DELUXE
Memory:Â ADATA XPG V2 8GB DDR3-1866 (2x4GB)
Storage: Kingston HyperX 3K SSD 2x120GB RAID0
PSU: Seasonic Platinum 1000w
Cooling: Custom loop
Case: Dimastech EasyXL
Monitor: LG E2350V
VGA:Â Gigabyte WindForce 780 Ti OC
Benching the modules we get the following results in SuperPI32M: a benchmarking tool used in many overclocking competitions and is quite sensitive to memory performance:
[section label=”Overclocking”]
Moving on to overclocking, we try and get DDR3-2400 speeds. No luck. Upping the voltage to 1.71v managed to get us booting but still no luck with stability so we tried to go for the next speed step which is DDR3-2133. We tried retaining our CL10 timings but the modules just wouldn’t POST so we settled with a loose 11-12-12-30 although I believe with a bit more fiddling we can get this kit to go with tighter timings.
Here is the SuperPI32M results, compare it to the results we have on the same system and the difference is clear:
[section label=”Conclusion”]
Conclusion
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We’ve kept it our standard to stick to DDR3-2400 memory kits when reviewing memory for two reasons: 1) to make sure we’re just around the upper mainstream of the market to keep things relevant yet still performance-oriented and 2) to make sure we’ve got some high-performance modules ready to take some overclocking. Focusing on that last statement, overclocking can really level-up your gear without the additional cost. In the case of the ADATA XPG V2 DDR3-1866 memory kit, we managed to push the DIMMs to a solid DDR3-2133. Timings were a bit loose with a safe 10-12-12-30 but with patient tweaking I’m sure we could’ve easily gotten it to tighter settings.
Let’s break down the score further:
Performance. As they are, the ADATA XPG V2 dual-channel memory kit are your average, enthusiast-grade memory kits. They perform just as well as many other DDR3-1866 kits in the market, timings are ok but could be tighter. Overclocking though really made the kit stand-out with a magnificent 12.5% overclock, boosting the kit from DDR3-1866 stock to a solid DDR3-2133.
Build Quality. The ADATA XPG is clad in well-made aluminium heatsinks with excellent craftsmanship oozing all over. This is also evident in the black PCB and clean board work.
Functionality. Most modern motherboards will readily accept memory modules past DDR3-1866 but others already top-out at these speeds and will need the BCLK increased to reach rated speeds. In these situations, the ADATA XPG V2 DDR3-1866 kits prove to be the better choice than its higher speed variety giving it better flexibility in mainstream applications.
Bundle. Comes as is and we’re fine with that. 🙂
Value. ADATA tags the XPG v2 DDR3-1866 memory kit 2x4GB kit at $79 but most e-tailers put the kit up at only $64. At these price range, you’re going to see a lot of competition and while the ADATA kit could use a price drop to be more competitive, its more or less a decision of looks here and if you find the stone grey or orange gold more your taste then you’re on the right track.
Overall, the ADATA XPG V2 DDR3-1866 dual-channel memory kit is a nice outing for ADATA. We’ll go as far as saying this kit trumps the DDR3-2400 in terms of value as you can easily reach DDR3-2133 with a touch of overclocking, easily earning you a 12% increase with zero cost.
The ADATA XPG V2 kits are great modules with a distinctive look that will certainly give your build that certain swag without the need for blingy lighting. Add to this the good overclocking potential and of course, the affordable price at which you’re getting them and you have one of the most competitive RAM kits in the market that offer performance for a good price.
ADATA backs the XPG V2 with a LIFETIME WARRANTY. We award the ADATA XPG V2 with a B2G Value Award and Recommended Badge.
