Is DDR4 Really Worth It?

[CoolZakCZ]

So I've done quite a bit of research into DDR4. Everything I've seen only says things along the lines of "You won't notice a difference for another few years, so just go with DDR3". But my issue is, no one brings up future proofing. Since I'm going to be doing a new build soon, I'd also like to future proof it for future upgrades. So my question is, is DDR4 worth it? Should I just go with DDR3, and risk not being able to upgrade it, or go with DDR4 where I will be able to upgrade to future parts coming out for it?

 

Thanks in advance for the help!

[Muz]

simple answer to title = no

[ZetZet]

Future proofing is a concept. It doesn't work in the world we live in.

[AdamH96]

No. there really is no difference other than wattage, but, you should also be comparing CPU to help you decide what platform to get

[DannyRyu]

it has higher mhz which leads to higher CAS latency so it kind of balances it out at the end 

[Necrodead]

Considering DDR4 is a different platform than DDR3, if you want to just 'upgrade' you would need a mobo and CPU as well.

[Zayzo]

Well, seems like i don't even need to type anything. But i will anyway. 

[jscottyh]

Worth it? No, not really. I can see it being benificial for power saving running lower volts on the RAM. But at that point, your really just saving pennys a year in power. If DDR4 could pull 3000Mhz @ 1.2v and have the timing 7-7-7-20, then yes, DDR4 is worth it. But that wont happen.

[Naeaes]

This is the same thing as back when DDR3 was brand new. "Why would I pay twice as much for DDR3-1066 when DDR2-1066 is available..." I wasn't in the field when DDR2 came out but I can only assume it's the same ordeal.

 

To answer your question, OP; Intel CPUs can easily last for five years. If you're planning to take it that far, do you suspect you can get by with DDR3 in five years? We can only assume they won't get any faster whereas it's only likely that DDR4 will. It's entirely up to you but you're right. At the moment, looking at current performance only, it's not worth it.

 

Skylakes do come with other benefits too. Native PCI-E 3.0 and DMI 3.0 for example. Again, think five years (or however many fits your plans) ahead.

[Samsterstorm]

No not really, it stupidly expensive in comparison to DDR3 and if u clock DDR3 at the same speed which can be done with high speed sets now a days then you will notice literally zero difference in game and windows usage. Its like adding 2hp to your car for an extra £10000 its pretty much pointless at the moment!!!