Crucial Ballistix Elite, Sport & Tactical 16GB DDR4 Memory Group Test

1. Introduction2. Closer Look - Motherboard Installation3. Testing Methodology4. Tests: Memory Metrics5. Tests: Memory Performance6. Overclocking: Frequencies and Performance7. Closing Thoughts8. View All Pages

Crucial's Ballistix range of DDR4 memory modules is very well rounded in terms of performance, aesthetics and build quality – the improvements the company has made compared to previous generation DDR3 modules are clear to see. Nonetheless there are still areas in which Crucial could strive to improve their offerings.

Notably, for the Ballistix Elite modules it would be nice to see the company push beyond 2666MHz as this is its flagship DDR4 module. Higher frequencies would naturally command a higher price point but there is definitely demand for higher frequency memory and we've seen from our overclocking tests that Crucial's memory kits are certainly capable of faster frequencies. With some DRAM vendors offering in excess of 4000MHz, 2666MHz is relatively pale in comparison… even if 2666MHz is still perfectly sufficient for mid to high-end users.

In terms of colour options it would be nice to see not only a greater variety, but also a greater consistency of options across the range. For example, Ballistix Sport is available in grey, red and white but Tactical is only available in grey and Elite only in black.

Why not roll out all colour options to all modules to give prospective buyers maximum flexibility in properly coordinating their builds? Crucial's memory division has always been somewhat conservative in terms of design choices and frequency options but with the PC DIY market ever increasing in size now is as good a time as any for the company to expand its horizons.

In terms of pricing for these memory kits Crucial is aggressive – Amazon UK has prices (accurate at the time of writing) of £70.48 (Elite), £72.99 (Tactical) and £59.16 (Sport). Certainly, Crucial is locking horns with Corsair's Vengeance LPX and Kingston's HyperX Fury kits that occupy similar price points for equivalent speeds and capacities.

Undoubtedly, most DRAM vendors offer uniquely designed memory products but prospective buyers may struggle to pick between the competition given similarities in pricing. Crucial's Limited Lifetime warranty and UK-based customer support will appeal to many but prospective buyers should note that similar warranty services are offered by most DRAM vendors.

Discuss on our Facebook page, over HERE.

Pros:

• Competitive pricing on the entire Ballistix range.
• Lifetime warranty.
• Decent overclocking potential.
• Attractively designed heatspreaders that will suit most Z170 motherboards.

Cons:

• Limited frequency options.
• Colour options vary inconsistently between Ballistix Elite, Sport and Tactical.

KitGuru says: Competitive pricing, an attractive set of designs and good performance, including overclocking, make Crucial's Ballistix DDR4 series of memory modules a worthy contender for any Skylake system. However, a lack of high speed options and a limited selection of colours may limit the overall audience.

Become a Patron!