Verdict and Conclusion
The performance of the Crucial Ballistix DDR3-2133 at default BIOS AUTO settings (DDR3-1333) was pretty good, but nothing to shout about. That’s because the memory modules was not running at the optimised settings. However, when XMP profiles are selected in the BIOS, then you really see the boost in performance. But having said that we were once again hit by the limitation of the CPU. We were not able to run the system at full XMP mode with a BCLK rate of 213Mhz. Instead, we ran the Crucial Ballistix DDR3-2133 4Gb kits at 915Mhz with a BCLK rate of 183Mhz, that’s equivalent to DDR3-1830. Still, the performance offered when XMP profiles are selected is definitely worth investigating. With a better CPU and motherboard, I think these modules will show its true potential.
Now I know a lot of enthusiasts or hardcore overclockers would probably prefer memory from Corsair or OCZ, but don’t discount these modules from Crucial just yet. Crucial is fast becoming a major player in this enthusiast market and a perferred choice due to its attractive pricing. Especially when you consider that Crucial offer excellent warranty with these modules as well as free shipping.
One of the first things you’ll notice about these modules are the large and mean-looking heatspreader, which is a great bonus and should be more than enough to effectively cool the memory. It’s constructed of solid Aluminum blocks rather than thin Aluminum plates … so it weighs as much as it’s worth 😉
One thing that really makes these modules extremely appealing is the price. Costing only USD $160.00 (GBP 118.00), which I think is excellent value for money. Remember, these Ballistix DDR3-2133 4Gb kits are Crucial’s highest performing memory modules available in their catalogue. Besides, not many memory manufacturers have memory modules at that speed at this price!
Final words. Once again, Crucial has delivered in terms of performance and price with good overclocking ability. What’s more, it comes with XMP support and features large and great looking heatspreaders. These Ballistix DDR3-2133 4Gb kits are definitely worth considering especially if you’re an extreme enthusiast or hardcore overclocker.
SCORE
9/10
