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OCZ Technologies PC2700 Rev 3.2 DDR: While DDR400 memory is fast becoming the choice memory for overclockers, PC2700 memory, or DDR333 is still a viable alternative. Unfortunately, so much of it exists and choosing the right module can be a daunting task. Today we are taking a look at a stick of PC2700 memory from OCZ Technology.
 
 
Date: January 29, 2003
Catagory: Memory & Storage
Manufacturer:
Supplied by:
Written By:

SiSoft Sandra 2002

We'll be testing Sandra Memory Bandwidth at 333 MHz and 400 MHz, CAS 2, 1T Command.

Sandra Memory Bandwidth (333 MHZ) CAS 2 1T COMMAND

I expected the memory to run just fine at 333 MHZ, and it did just that. The single 256 MB module also turned out an impressive score when compared to the Corsair and XtremeDDR memory. As a matter of fact, the OCZ performed on par with the Corsair, while the XtremeDDR showed some fight, but not enough to compete on OCZ's level. It is of interest that I mention that in a previous test, XtremeDDR managed to outperform and outclass OCZ's revision 3 PC2700 memory, so it is obvious OCZ has optimized the SPD on the later revision module for better performance. Next let's see how the modules performed when overclocked to 400 MHZ.

Sandra Memory Bandwidth (400 MHZ) CAS 2 1T COMMAND

Well, first of all, congratulations go to XtremeDDR, as they earned the right to not have to go through this benchmark session, since their PC2700 wouldn't boot at 400 MHZ.

Now let's see how the Corsair and OCZ fares.

The OCZ module has a slight edge over the Corsair memory, although I doubt the edge will carry over into real world performance. Speaking of which, how does it do for Quake 3?

Quake 3 TimeDemo1 @ 333 MHZ CAS2 1T COMMAND

As I thought, at equal timings and clock speed, neither module outperforms the other. Upping the memory speed yielded little increase in performance, with a 3-4 MHZ increase coming when the memory was clocked at 400 MHZ.

Conclusion

The fact that this is rated as a 333 MHZ part and manages to perform at operate with total stability at 418 MHZ under aggressive timings is a testament to the solid build quality of OCZ's modules. The only thing I could really find to be a problem with the module was how quickly the heatspreader tarnished. Any doubt that OCZ isn't a leader when it comes to high performance memory has just been settled. It overclocks better than our XtremeDDR module, while outperforming both the Corsair and XtremeDDR, although the victory over the Corsair is barely noticeable, and certainly not enough to effect real-life performance.

I guess the real question is whether or not you should purchase OCZ memory. I think when you factor in that it is cheaper than Corsair memory, and outperforms XtremeDDR by a fairly substantial amount, it becomes apparent that OCZ memory is a great value for overclockers and users seeking great performance. OCZ is currently available at many retailers in the US, Canada and United Kingdom, so availability won't be an issue.

Once again, thanks to our sponsors for providing the modules needed to make this review possible.

Pros
Great performance
Very competitive pricing
Excellent overclockability

Cons
Copper heatspreader tarnishes very easily

Bottom Line
OCZ PC2700 Revision 3.2 memory offers the best mix of performance, stability and overclockability available today. It is certainly deserving of our Editor's Choice award.

Agree? Disagree? Discuss it in our forums

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