What Is The Difference Between C16 and C18 RAM?
Sadly, just getting a brand new computer does not expand your expectations. Besides, the most a new PC can offer you is frequent system updates, but it will not change your experience overall. That is why, you always need to make a few changes to your PC every now and then so that you can enjoy a great display and data reading speed without your computer slowing down abruptly. However, building your PC may not be as easy as it seems. First, you need to make sure you choose the right hardware that fits into your PC and offers you the promised quality. One of such important decisions you need to make is to choose between C16 or C18 RAM. But, what is the difference between c16 and c18 RAM?
In this article, we will tell you the main differences between C16 and C18 RAM and which one of the best option for you. So, keep reading to know more.
What is CL?
Before we talk about the differences, let us first understand the concept of CL and why is it important in RAM? Basically, CL and the number that represents it is the CAS latency of the RAM kit. Besides, the CL is known as the CAS Latency that is found in RAM. Therefore, CL definitely plays an important role in upgrading the performance of the RAM.
The main purpose of CAS Latency, aka Column Address Strobe is to inform you of the overall number of times your RAM requires to send data to the system. However, to understand the overall latency of RAM, it is important to take note of the time between each cycle. More precisely, CAS Latency means the time interval between the entered command and the available data. So, you can say that latency means the space between entering the command and receiving data. When you command, the data travels through various clock cycles in CAS. This results in the data reaching its correct locations. However, you can regulate the latency following these variables:
- The duration of the clock cycle. It is measured in nanoseconds.
- Therefore, the data needs to run through a total number of clock cycles.
So, when you combine these variables, you get the latency equation, i.e., latency (ns) = clock cycle time (ns) x number of clock cycles. So, overall, both speed and latency play an important role in conducting a high-performance data transfer.
What is the difference between C16 and C18?
Now, back to our focus topic, what is the difference between c16 and c18 RAM? We have explained the differences in the following:
C16
C16 RAM kit, or CL16, CAS 16 requires 16 clock cycles in order to send data. Plus, it is two cycles faster than regular ones. Besides, C16 promises an amazing overall performance and is totally worth the amount. As of its working process, CAS 16 performs and fulfills the command after receiving instructions from the CPU within its 16th cycle. Moreover, as compared to C18, C16 has less delay time, which makes it faster for you to process the data. Plus, C16 offers better performance, thanks to its faster function execution. Other than that, you can also enjoy a great amount of memory.
C18
C18 RAM kit needs 18 RAM clock cycles in order to output its data. However, it offers delayed output compared to CAS 16. Plus, it is also costlier than C16 and not generally preferable in this advanced world. As of C18, it will take 18 whole cycles to display data after receiving instructions. However, C18 does not offer faster outputs and enhanced performances, as compared to C16.
So, clearly, choosing C16 seems like the better option between C16 and C18.
Best C16 RAM for PC
So, now that you know that C16 is the better option compared to what C18 has to offer, here is the list of best C16 RAM you must get:
1. Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4 3200MHz C16
Corsair Vengeance LPX C16 is known to be one of the best DDR4 RAMs you can find online. Besides, it comes with 16 GB storage capacity with the speed of 3200MHz and CAS LAtency 16. Plus, it is compatible with almost every PC and offers smooth performance.
Pros:
- It come with heat spreaders
- Is very affordable
- Offers XMP profiles
- Has a tough overall design
- Comes in different size and speed variations
Cons:
- No RGB lights
2. SKILL Trident Z Royal 32GB (2x16GB) DDR4 3200MHz C16
G.SKILL Trident Z Royal C16 is one of the best looking C16 RAM you can get your hands on. Plus, it is also one of the most popular RAMs in the market. It offers an excellent storage capacity of 32 GB with a speed of 3200MHz. Besides, this DDR4 RAM offers an enhanced gaming experience.
Pros:
- It offers solid performance
- Comes with beautiful RGB lights
- Has XMP profiles
- Is bold and dashing
Cons:
- It is pretty expensive
- Heavy in weight
3. Thermaltake WaterRam RGB 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4 3200MHz C16
Thermaltake WaterRam RGB C16 is what you need when you are looking for a water-cooling RAM for your gaming PC. This C16 is also known to be the Power of Water, which means it is the best RAM you can find online. Plus, it comes with a storage capacity of 16 GB and speed of 3200MHz. In fact, you can definitely enjoy an enhanced version of video games when you use Thermaltake WaterRam RGB.
Pros:
- Promised solid performances
- Has a solid overall design
- Comes with smart RGB lighting
- Has a water-cooling feature
Cons:
- Costs near about $300 which is really expensive
- It needs an extra 5V RGB header for better experience
Conclusion
RAM has an important role to play when it comes to gaming. In fact, just like reading speed of the RAM, the CAS latency also decides how smooth the game proceed when you enter your commands. However, the lower the CAS Latency, the better performance. That is why, it is always better to choose C16 over C18.
About the Author Michael E. Yates
Hi! The words you are going to read comes from me! A geek passionately and a writer of 5+ years professionally. If you ask about my likings, well, I love to tag along with upcoming technology trends. Though I also have contributed to many more technology sites through my writings. If you ask about my dreams, then one of them is finding an instant solution for every device malfunction, so I am creating a blog post. A blog post that will help more people like me. I, introduce thepcstuff.com the result of my hard work and patience. Do not worry, with me and my team behind the computers will make sure every vital information related to technology reaches all of you people. So, if you are ready to go on an adventurous ride with thepcstuff.com and me, let's get started!
