HP V10 DDR4 RGB 16GB 3600C14 (Samsung B-Die) Review

The HP V10 DDR4 RGB is a solid effort by the vendor to create a set of memory that will appeal to more enthusiastic buyers. Samsung B-Die with tight out-of-the-box timings is generally a good formula for any set of DDR4 memory.

Performance in our testing was good. We generally saw greater performance than competing single-rank DDR4 sets, including 3600MHz kits from Corsair and Thermaltake.

The 3600MHz speed with 14-15-15-35 timings is a good combination. With that said, the operating voltage of 1.45V in our test system is undeniably high for a 2x8GB set.

I think HP does a good job with styling. The modules look good with a silver and black heatspreader that also features the ‘hp’ logo. Height is ludicrous – as we often see from modern DDR4 memory. But the build quality of the sticks is undeniable.

The RGB lighting implementation is solid, too. Lighting brightness was good to my eyes. I like the fact that there’s no need for additional, third-party software. And the colour accuracy and smoothness were absolutely fine.

Pricing is a clear problematic area for this set of memory. With an MSRP of $150 in the US, and current availability of $129.99, Biwin/HP are clearly banking on people paying a massive premium for Samsung B-Die ICs.

By comparison, a similar spend of up to $130 buys double the capacity of 3600MHz Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro. Or higher-clocked sticks in 16GB form. Or there's a roughly $50 saving by opting for 3600MHz G.SKILL Trident Z RGB 16GB instead.

There are several positive factors with the HP V10 DDR4 RGB memory set and its Samsung B-Die ICs. We appreciate that HP/Biwin are coming to market as a new contender – more competition suits the consumer. However, the current pricing structure makes the set's market position uncompetitive, unless you're happy to pay a significant premium for Samsung B-Die ICs. The 5-year warranty is silly, too.

Pros:

• Attractive heatspreader design
• Good-looking RGB lighting system
• No proprietary software required
• Excellent build quality

Cons:

• No temp sensor
• Ludicrously tall
• Very high default voltage for 2x8GB 3600C14
• 5-Year warranty is silly – RAM is always lifetime warranty

KitGuru says: Samsung B-Die ICs deliver excellent performance, and we like what HP/Biwin have done with the modules. But the pricing is currently uncompetitive, and a measly 5-year warranty leaves a question in our mind.

Become a Patron!