56

Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory

DDR5 · 5600MHz · CL46 · 1x16GB · SODIMM

$38

MSRP

50

Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory

DDR4 · 3200MHz · CL22 · 1x16GB · SODIMM

$25

MSRP

Our verdict

The Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory takes the performance lead with a 12% 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 7% more frames per second across demanding titles like Counter-Strike 2 and F1 2024.

However, the Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory tells a compelling value story. At $25 versus the Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory's $38 price tag, it costs 52% less while delivering performance that's only 12% 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 Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory is the smarter purchase. The Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory 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 DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory

12% faster overall

Best value for money

Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory

9% better value per dollar

Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory best for

Raw performance

12% faster overall

features

XMP/EXPO
No
No
RGB
No
No

Memory

Capacity
16 GB
16 GB
Kit
1x16GB
1x16GB
Type
DDR5
DDR4
Form factor
SODIMM
SODIMM

Performance

Speed
5,600 MHz
3,200 MHz
CAS latency
CL46
CL22
True latency
16.4 ns
13.8 ns
Bandwidth
44.8 GB/s
25.6 GB/s

Physical

Heat spreader
None
None
Height
30 mm
30 mm

Power

Voltage
1.10V
1.20V

value

Price per GB
$2.38/GB
$1.56/GB

Gaming benchmarks (avg FPS at 1440p ultra)

Counter-Strike 2
492 fps
455 fps
F1 2024
224 fps
212 fps
Shadow of the Tomb Raider
156 fps
149 fps

Synthetic & compute benchmarks

7-Zip Compression
110,200 MIPS
94,800 MIPS
Handbrake 4K Encode
99.5 seconds
107.2 seconds

Frequently asked questions

Is the Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory worth $13 more than the Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory?

It depends on your needs. The Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory scores 56 overall vs 50 for the Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory. If you need the extra performance for demanding tasks, the premium is justified. For most users gaming at 1440p or below, the Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory offers better value.

Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory or Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory?

The Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory provides more headroom for ray tracing and future titles, while the Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory still maintains smooth gameplay in current games.

Can the Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory handle 4K gaming?

The Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory 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 DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.

Which should I buy, the Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory or Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory?

Choose the Samsung DDR4-3200 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory if you want the best value for money and primarily game at 1080p or 1440p. Choose the Crucial DDR5-5600 16GB SODIMM Laptop Memory if you need maximum performance, play at 4K, or do professional workloads like video editing and 3D rendering.

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