64

Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit

DDR4 · 3200MHz · CL16 · 2x8GB · DIMM

$34

MSRP

60

Crucial DDR4-3200 32GB Memory Kit

DDR4 · 3200MHz · CL22 · 2x16GB · DIMM

$55

MSRP

Our verdict

The Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit takes the performance lead with a 7% higher overall score, driven by its more shader cores, more of memory, and higher TFLOPS of compute power. In gaming benchmarks at 1440p, it delivers roughly 3% more frames per second across demanding titles like Counter-Strike 2 and F1 2024.

However, the Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit tells a compelling value story. At $34 versus the Crucial DDR4-3200 32GB Memory Kit's $55 price tag, it costs 62% less while delivering performance that's only 7% behind. Its of memory is still more than enough for 1440p and even 4K gaming in most titles.

Our recommendation: for the majority of gamers targeting 1440p or even 4K with upscaling enabled, the Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit is the smarter purchase. The Crucial DDR4-3200 32GB Memory Kit only makes sense if you need the absolute maximum performance for native 4K ray tracing, professional 3D rendering, or AI workloads where the extra VRAM and compute power provide a tangible advantage.

Performance winner

Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit

7% faster overall

Best value for money

Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit

9% better value per dollar

Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit best for

Raw performance

7% faster overall

features

XMP/EXPO
XMP 2.0
No
RGB
No
No

Memory

Capacity
16 GB
32 GB
Kit
2x8GB
2x16GB
Type
DDR4
DDR4
Form factor
DIMM
DIMM

Performance

Speed
3,200 MHz
3,200 MHz
CAS latency
CL16
CL22
True latency
10.0 ns
13.8 ns
Bandwidth
51.2 GB/s
51.2 GB/s

Physical

Heat spreader
Aluminum
None
Height
39 mm
30 mm

Power

Voltage
1.35V
1.20V

value

Price per GB
$2.13/GB
$1.72/GB

Gaming benchmarks (avg FPS at 1440p ultra)

Counter-Strike 2
548 fps
528 fps
F1 2024
252 fps
244 fps
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
179 fps
172 fps

Synthetic & compute benchmarks

7-Zip Compression
105,600 MIPS
102,400 MIPS
Handbrake 4K Encode
101.8 seconds
104.2 seconds

Frequently asked questions

Is the Crucial DDR4-3200 32GB Memory Kit worth $21 more than the Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit?

It depends on your needs. The Crucial DDR4-3200 32GB Memory Kit scores 64 overall vs 60 for the Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit. If you need the extra performance for demanding tasks, the premium is justified. For most users gaming at 1440p or below, the Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit offers better value.

Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit or Crucial DDR4-3200 32GB Memory Kit?

The Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit provides more headroom for ray tracing and future titles, while the Crucial DDR4-3200 32GB Memory Kit still maintains smooth gameplay in current games.

Can the Crucial DDR4-3200 32GB Memory Kit handle 4K gaming?

The Crucial DDR4-3200 32GB Memory Kit can handle 4K gaming in less demanding titles and with upscaling technologies like DLSS or FSR. For native 4K at ultra settings in demanding games, the Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.

Which should I buy, the Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit or Crucial DDR4-3200 32GB Memory Kit?

Choose the Crucial Ballistix DDR4-3200 16GB Memory Kit if you want the best value for money and primarily game at 1080p or 1440p. Choose the Crucial DDR4-3200 32GB Memory Kit if you need maximum performance, play at 4K, or do professional workloads like video editing and 3D rendering.

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