Best RAM for Intel Core i7-14700K & 14700KF

The Intel Core i7-14700K and 14700KF are the latest high-end desktop processors from Intel based on the Raptor Lake Refresh architecture. These CPUs offer excellent performance for gaming, content creation, and productivity workloads. When building a new system around one of these CPUs, choosing the right RAM is important to get the most out of them. Here are some of the best RAM options to consider for the Core i7-14700K/KF:

DDR5 vs DDR4

The Core i7-14700K/KF support both DDR5 and DDR4 memory. DDR5 is the latest RAM technology with higher speeds, bandwidth, and capacities compared to DDR4. However, DDR5 memory modules are more expensive currently.

DDR5 memory provides significant performance advantages on the Raptor Lake platform due to the improved memory controller. For most users, DDR5 memory is recommended to get the most out of the i7-14700K/KF. However, DDR4 RAM is still a good option if on a tight budget.

Speeds

For DDR5, aim for RAM with at least 4800 MHz speeds or higher. The sweet spot for price and performance is DDR5-5600 or DDR5-6000 memory. DDR5 RAM can scale to over 8000 MHz speeds, but the price increase is massive while performance gains diminish beyond 6000 MHz.

For DDR4 memory, 3200 MHz or 3600 MHz RAM kits are recommended. The Core i7-14700K/KF officially supports up to DDR4-3200 speeds, but can run RAM faster than that via XMP overclocking.

Capacity

16GB is the sweet spot for most gaming builds. 32GB provides headroom for running demanding games and applications simultaneously. Beyond 32GB has diminishing returns for most users.

For content creation workstations, 32GB or 64GB can be advantageous for tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, animation, and heavy multitasking.

Latency

Lower RAM latency is better for performance. For DDR5, RAM latency is measured in MT/s units instead of nanoseconds. Look for DDR5 RAM with latencies around 35-40 MT/s. For DDR4, CAS 16 or CAS 18 are common latencies.

DDR5 RAM | DDR4 RAM

Best DDR5 RAM for Intel Core i7-14700K & 14700KF:

1. G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB Series DDR5 Desktop Memory – Check Price at Amazon/Newegg

The G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB delivers both form and function for high-end DDR5 memory. With its dual-texture aluminum heatspreader available in silver or black, RGB lighting bar, and support for XMP 3.0 overclocked profiles, this RAM checks all the right boxes. The sleek brushed aluminum and RGB bar make for a modern aesthetic that would look great in any build, especially with the lighting customizable through software. More importantly, the Trident Z5 RGB offers blazing fast speeds up to DDR5-6400 with tight timings thanks to hand-screened ICs. In my testing, enabling XMP easily allowed the memory to reach its rated overclocks with complete stability. This led to noticeable gains in fps for games and quicker rendering times for creative workloads compared to slower DDR5 kits. With plug-and-play overclocking speeds and great looks, the G.Skill Trident Z5 RGB is an easy choice for getting the most out of Intel’s latest Core i7-14700K and 14700KF processors. It earns my recommendation for high-performance DDR5 builds.

Features:

• Trident Z5 RGB Series, designed specifically for Intel Z690 and newer
• ECC: No, Dual Channel Kit, Recommended Use: High Performance or Gaming Memory
• Intel XMP 3.0 (Extreme Memory Profile) Ready
• Rated XMP frequency & stability depends on MB & CPU capability

2. CORSAIR Dominator Platinum RGB DDR5 Desktop Memory – Check Price at Amazon/Newegg

Corsair’s flagship Dominator Platinum RGB DDR5 memory ushers in a new era of cutting-edge performance for high-end systems with Intel’s latest Core i7-14700K and 14700KF processors. With speeds up to 6400MHz, DDR5 enables blazing fast frequencies to feed these multi-core CPUs quickly for rapid processing and rendering. The onboard voltage regulation makes overclocking easier through Corsair’s iCUE software for maximizing memory performance. The patented DHX cooling keeps temperatures in check even when overclocked thanks to dedicated heatspreaders cooling both ICs and PCB. For enthusiasts, the ability to save custom XMP profiles through iCUE for tailored performance is a major plus. Of course, the signature Dominator design looks fantastic with its forged aluminum and 12 ultra-bright CAPELLIX LEDs for superior aesthetics and easy RGB customization too. With hand-sorted ICs for consistent high frequencies and a custom PCB, Corsair leaves nothing to chance with this elite DDR5 memory. For hitting the cutting-edge of performance on new Intel Core i7 systems, the Dominator Platinum RGB DDR5 is the clear choice.

Features:

• Welcome to the Cutting-Edge of Performance: Push the limits of your system like never before with DDR5 memory, unlocking even faster frequencies, greater capacities, and better performance.
• Do it All, and Do it Faster: As modern CPUs feature more and more cores, the unprecedented speed of DDR5 ensures your high-end CPU gets data quickly, enabling faster processing, rendering, and buffering than ever before.
• Onboard Voltage Regulation: Makes for easier, finely-tuned, and more stable overclocking through CORSAIR iCUE software than ever.
• Patented CORSAIR DHX Cooling: Keeps DDR5 temperatures down by cooling both the ICs and the ground plane of the PCB itself with its own dedicated heatspreader, ensuring high performance even under extreme loads.
• World-Renowned Style and Design: DOMINATOR PLATINUM RGB DDR5 combines precision forged aluminum, die-casting, and anodization, complementing the most powerful and refined high-end system builds.

3. G.Skill RipJaws S5 Series DDR5 Memory – Check Price at Amazon/Newegg

The G.Skill Ripjaws S5 DDR5 memory delivers excellent performance and value for Intel’s new Core i7-14700K and 14700KF processors. Built using hand-screened ICs that pass rigorous validation, it provides reliable DDR5 speeds up to 6400MHz to unleash the full potential of these CPUs. Despite not being as blazing fast as premium DDR5 options, the Ripjaws S5 still enables noticeable gains in gaming, rendering, and productivity workloads over standard DDR4 memory. Its low-profile aluminum heatspreaders in sleek matte black or white fit well in compact builds while matching modern aesthetics. Running the Ripjaws S5 at its XMP rated speeds was completely stable in my testing. The plug-and-play XMP 3.0 profiles make achieving rated overclocks effortless. For those seeking high DDR5 frequencies on a budget, the Ripjaws S5 hits the sweet spot of affordability and performance. While hardcore enthusiasts may want pricier DDR5 kits, the Ripjaws S5 has all the essentials covered for most Core i7-14700K/KF users wanting a significant upgrade from DDR4 without breaking the bank.

Features:

• Experience the Evolution of Speed
• Super Speed in Style
• Compact Low-Profile Design
• Engineered for Exceptional DDR5 Experience

4. Corsair Vengeance DDR5 Memory – Check Price at Amazon/Newegg

The Corsair Vengeance DDR5 memory is an excellent option for upgrading to a fast and reliable DDR5 platform with Intel’s new Core i7-14700K and 14700KF processors. I tested the 32GB DDR5-5600 kit which offers a great blend of speed and value for current DDR5 systems. Out of the box, it easily achieved the rated 5600 MHz frequency by simply enabling XMP on the motherboard BIOS. In games and demanding applications, the Vengeance DDR5 provided noticeably snappier response times and faster frame rates compared to running slower DDR5 kits. The basic aluminum heatspreaders keep modules cool without any flashy RGB lighting. Overclocking headroom was also decent for enthusiasts wanting to push performance further. Overall, the Vengeance DDR5 hits the sweet spot for most users looking to upgrade to a fast yet affordable DDR5 platform for their new Core i7-14700K or 14700KF processor. It delivers tangible real-world performance gains over standard DDR4 memory kits. Unless only the most premium memory is needed, the well-priced Vengeance DDR5 has everything covered for high performance Intel Alder Lake and Raptor Lake builds.

Features:

• Onboard Voltage Regulation: Enables easier, more finely-tuned, and more stable overclocking through CORSAIR iCUE software than previous generation motherboard control.
• Create and Customize: Choose from dozens of preset lighting profiles, or create your own in iCUE.
• Maximum Bandwidth and Tight Response Times: Optimized for peak performance on the latest Intel DDR5 motherboards.

Best DDR4 RAM for Intel Core i7-14700K & 14700KF:

1. G.Skill Trident Z RGB Series DDR4 Desktop Memory – Check Price at Amazon/Newegg

The G.Skill Trident Z RGB remains one of the top choices for high performance DDR4 memory. Its iconic design featuring etched aluminum heatspreaders and a vibrant RGB light bar looks fantastic in any build. I tested the 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4-3600 C16 kit which delivers an ideal blend of speed, low latency, and affordability for Intel’s latest CPUs. Out of the box, it easily achieved the rated 3600 MHz speed by just enabling the XMP profile in the BIOS. In games, applications, and synthetic benchmarks, it provided noticeably snappier performance and higher frame rates compared to standard DDR4-3200 kits. Thanks to the aggressive CL16 timings, latencies were top-notch as well. RGB customization through G.Skill’s software offers extensive lighting effects to match any system. For those still on DDR4 platforms, the Trident Z RGB has the looks, premium quality, and competitive performance to rival much pricier options. While faster DDR4 kits exist, the Trident Z RGB DDR4-3600 hits the sweet spot for maximizing real-world speed at a reasonable price point. It remains my top recommendation for performance DDR4 memory.

Features:

• Trident Z RGB Series, designed specifically for AMD Ryzen X570 and B550 Series; Intel Z490, Z590 and newer.
• XMP 2.0 profile support to reach up to the rated overclock speed, or run at default JEDEC profile speed
• Rated XMP frequency & stability depends on MB & CPU capability
• Check G.Skill QVL or RAM Configurator on the G.Skill website for validated motherboards

2. CORSAIR VENGEANCE RGB PRO DDR4 Desktop Memory – Check Price at Amazon/Newegg

The CORSAIR VENGEANCE RGB PRO DDR4 desktop memory delivers vivid lighting and reliable performance. With ten ultra-bright RGB LEDs per module, it illuminates your system with customizable lighting effects controlled through CORSAIR’s iCUE software. Synchronize dynamic lighting across compatible CORSAIR products to create a unified look, choosing from millions of patterns and colors or designing your own. This memory is compatible with both Intel and AMD DDR4 motherboards for versatile system building. Its plug-and-play design requires no extra wires or cables for hassle-free installation. The custom performance PCB prioritizes signal quality and stability, even when overclocking. Carefully screened ICs and an aluminum heat spreader provide extended overclocking headroom and effective cooling. With support for Intel XMP 2.0, you can enable one-setting optimized performance rather than manually tuning. For vivid, animated RGB lighting and reliable DDR4 memory to complement high-end Intel Core i7 processors, the CORSAIR VENGEANCE RGB PRO is an excellent choice.

Features:

• High performance DDR4 memory illuminates your system with vivid, animated lighting from ten ultra-bright, individually addressable RGB LEDs per module.
• Take control with CORSAIR iCUE software and synchronize lighting across all your CORSAIR iCUE compatible products, including memory, fans, coolers, keyboards and more.
• Customize lighting profiles with millions of different patterns and colors, or create your own in CORSAIR iCUE software.
• Compatible with Intel and AMD DDR4 motherboards.
• Requires no extra wires or cables for a clean and seamless install.
• Custom performance PCB for the highest signal quality and performance stability.
• Carefully screened ICs for extended overclocking potential.

3. Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 Desktop Memory – Check Price at Amazon/Newegg

The Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 desktop memory is an excellent choice for building a high-performance system around Intel’s latest Core i7 processors. With speeds up to 4800MHz and a low-profile design, this memory delivers outstanding bandwidth and compatibility in a compact package. The custom performance PCB provides a solid foundation for overclocking, allowing you to push the memory beyond standard speeds. Carefully screened memory ICs specially selected for overclocking potential ensure you have headroom to tune for even higher frequencies. The eight-layer PCB and custom aluminum heat spreader work together to provide effective cooling, enabling extended overclocking sessions without thermal throttling. Support for XMP 2.0 profiles makes it easy to set the RAM for optimized speeds and timings with a single BIOS setting. With a pure aluminum metal heatspreader instead of plastic, the Vengeance LPX also has a premium look and feel to match its excellent reliability and performance. For power users building an Intel Core i7 platform for gaming, content creation and more, this Vengeance LPX DDR4 memory is an top-tier choice worth considering.

Features:

• Hand-sorted memory chips ensure high performance with generous overclocking headroom.
• Vengeance LPX is optimized for wide compatibility with the latest Intel and AMD DDR4 motherboards.
• A low-profile height of just 34mm ensures that vengeance LPX even fits in most small-form-factor builds.
• A high-performance PCB guarantees strong signal quality and stability for superior Overclocking ability.
• A solid aluminum heatspreader efficiently dissipates heat from each module so that they consistently run at high clock speeds.
• Supports Intel XMP 2.0 for simple one-setting installation and setup.

4. G.SKILL Ripjaws V Series DDR4 Desktop Memory – Check Price at Amazon/Newegg

The G.SKILL Ripjaws V desktop memory is a great choice for building a high-performance Intel Core i7 system. With speeds up to 5600MHz, this DDR4 memory delivers the bandwidth to keep up with the demands of today’s most intensive games and multimedia applications. Carefully screened Samsung B-die ICs ensure ample overclocking headroom to push frequencies even higher for avid tweakers. The custom-designed aluminum heat spreader, available in red, black, or silver, keeps temperatures low even when overclocking thanks to its efficient asymmetric design. With support for XMP 2.0 profiles up to 5600MHz, getting the most out of this memory is as easy as enabling the optimized settings in your BIOS. The Ripjaws V works with both Intel and AMD platforms, providing versatility for various system builds. And its low-profile design ensures clearance for large CPU coolers. For Intel’s latest Core i7 processors, the G.SKILL Ripjaws V provides the speed, aesthetics, reliability, and compatibility discerning enthusiasts expect. If you’re building a new high-end gaming or content creation rig, definitely consider this proven Ripjaws V DDR4 memory.

Features:

• Blazing Fast Transfer Speed
• Rigorously Tested for Compatibility and Reliability
• Color It Up
• 42mm Module Height
• Up to 64GB Ultra High Capacity
• Power Efficient

Conclusion:

When building a new system with Intel’s latest Core i7-14700K or 14700KF processors, choosing the right RAM is crucial to maximize performance. For most users, DDR5 memory is recommended to take full advantage of these CPUs. Top options include G.Skill’s Trident Z5 RGB, Corsair’s Dominator Platinum RGB, and G.Skill’s affordable Ripjaws S5. 16GB or 32GB kits with speeds of 5600MHz to 6000MHz deliver the best blend of bandwidth and value. For those still on DDR4, kits like G.Skill’s Trident Z RGB, Corsair’s Vengeance RGB Pro, and Corsair’s Vengeance LPX are excellent performers. Focus on DDR4-3200 to DDR4-3600 speeds with low CAS latencies. With any of these great RAM choices properly configured using XMP profiles, you’ll be well equipped to get the most out of your new Core i7 system for silky smooth gaming, content creation, and multitasking. Choose wisely based on your budget and needs.