Review: ADATA XPG Xtreme 16GB (2x8GB) DDR3-2,133 memory

Final thoughts and rating

Our examination of the ADATA XPG Xtreme 16GB (2x8GB) memory has reaffirmed previously-held beliefs that increasing the system RAM frequency from 1,600MHz to 2,133MHz does little to improve real-world performance. Also confirming an obvious truth, users need to use two modules, in dual-channel configuration, for optimal performance; a single stick just doesn't cut it.

ADATA is aiming this high-density pack at power users who want, or simply desire, up to 32GB of RAM in motherboards featuring the usual four DIMM slots. You'll pay a significant premium for 8GB modules, as this 16GB pack, costing £180 - and reasonably consistent with other packs of the same capacity/speed - arrives with an 80 per cent premium over competitors' 16GB (4x4GB) offerings. Indeed, ADATA's own four-module kit of the same capacity costs £120.

8GB modules of DDR3-2,133 memory simply aren't mainstream enough to offer a compelling price-to-performance ratio. Understanding the economics of memory production means that they can only be put forward to the enthusiast who really does need 32GB in a regular desktop system... and has the means to pay for it.

The Good

High-density, speedy RAM
Look great
Enables 32GB in a regular desktop PC
Overclock reasonably well

The Bad

Don't offer huge performance uptick over 1,600MHz RAM
Expensive, but that is the nature of the beast

HEXUS Rating

ADATA XPG Xtreme 16GB (2x8GB)

HEXUS Where2Buy

The reviewed memory is available from here.

HEXUS Right2Reply

At HEXUS, we invite the companies whose products we test to comment on our articles. If any company representatives for the products reviewed choose to respond, we'll publish their commentary here verbatim.