Introduction
Crucial Pro series 32GB DDR5 - 5600 MHz CL45 review
DDR5 and DDR4 Variations and Key Features
In a move to cater to customers seeking premium products, Crucial has unveiled its Pro series of memory products, following the discontinuation of its Ballistix gaming memory line last year. The Pro series will be available in both DDR5 and DDR4 variations, with speeds reaching up to DDR5-5600 or DDR4-3200. DDR4 modules continue to use a green PCB, while the DDR5 modules adopt the same black PCB used in Crucial's standard DDR5 modules. Notwithstanding the heatsink, the Pro series largely mirrors Crucial's standard modules, with one notable exception that could appeal to prospective buyers.
Crucial's Pro series modules now support AMD EXPO and Intel XMP 3.0. AMD EXPO is exclusively applicable to DDR5 modules, while the DDR4 modules are compatible with Intel XMP 2.0, a feature missing from its standard DDR4 modules. This enhancement aims to enable users to leverage the additional performance that some of these modules provide more easily. However, Crucial has maintained JEDEC timings, with the Pro DDR5-5600 UDIMM kit, for instance, possessing timings of 46-46-45-45 at 1.1 Volts. In comparison, competitive products typically offer timings around 36-36-36-36, typically at 1.25 Volts or higher.
Despite this, there are more favorable options available at this price point. Crucial Pro DRAM facilitates the utilization of Intel XMP 2.0 or 3.0 and AMD EXPO™ on each module, in order to recover performance if the CPU restricts memory speeds in two or four DIMM configurations. It is unique in providing Intel XMP and AMD EXPO on the same memory module, maximizing performance across platforms and giving users the flexibility to integrate Crucial DDR5 Pro DRAM into either an Intel or AMD PC build. Furthermore, the consolidated product SKUs help mitigate inventory management complexities for channel partners and distributors.
Crucial DDR5 Pro memory supports 12th Gen Intel Core™ and AMD Ryzen 7000 Series desktop CPUs and above, while Crucial DDR4 Pro DRAM is compatible with 8th to 13th Gen Intel Core and AMD Ryzen 1000 to 5000 Series desktop CPUs. Both Crucial DDR5 and DDR4 Pro memory models are equipped with black aluminum heat spreaders, which offer aesthetic appeal in a low-profile module, suitable for even the smallest form factor PCs, while also facilitating heat dissipation. The DDR5 Pro memory is available in 16GB 5,600MT/s UDIMM modules, and the DDR4 Pro memory is available in 16GB and 32GB 3,200MT/s UDIMM modules.
The 32GB/5600MHz/CL46 kit tested today can be spotted in the EU for as little as 99 euro, with an equivalent price in USD. And that's not a lot of money for a 32GBkit.
