Today in our Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM review, we’ll talk about Micron Technology’s latest gaming memory. Crucial Ballistix has been out for a while now, but they were originally Micron Technology’s separate brands.
Micron Technology is known to be one of the best data storage & memory chip providers.
We previously reviewed the “Gaming” series of their Crucial Ballistix brand, which is the most recommended for those who are just looking into gaming. Now, it’s time to review one of their MAX series RAMs.
Crucial was originally made for standard products, while Ballistix is for PC enthusiasts since they’re more expensive. Crucial and Ballistix brands include SDRAM type memory, DDR to DDR4 RAM, and NAND/Flash-type storage chips.
Finally, the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM is here for those who have an extra budget to spend.
Different Versions
The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM comes in two variants; RGB (BLM2K8G40C18U4BL) and Non-RGB (BLM2K8G40C18U4B) version.
Since we both have the RGB and non-RGB versions, we’ll cover them both. The RGB version costs $199.99, while the non-RGB is $29 cheaper. But are these RAM kits any good?
Let’s find out if these satisfy your computer needs. Let’s begin by getting into the packaging section of our Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM review.
Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM Packaging
Packaging Design
The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM comes in a sturdy flip book-style box that makes it a premium product to begin with.
The front side of the box includes the Crucial and Micron logo on the bottom-left corner, while the label can be seen on top.
The left flop has a magnet located on the bottom, while the other side has a copyright formality description, as well as the Ballistix’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube accounts.
You’ll also find a plastic seal in the middle to ensure that the product hasn’t been opened yet. In our case, we both have the RGB 16GB Kit and Non-RGB 16GB Kit DDR4-4000.
At the back, there’s a general description of the Crucial Ballistix MAX series, all of which are printed in 10 different languages. Also, you’ll see the model number of the RAM kit you got on the lower-right corner.
There’s also a layer of a plastic clamshell case which holds two of the RAMs firmly. The right flop comes with a translucent plastic that reveals the actual RAM you get.
As we flip the right flop open, the RAM modules are protected on each side with a hard cardboard box. Due to the RAM heat spreader, the RAM sits tight to the plastic clamshell, which helps during package deliveries.
All in all, the packaging is properly secured and protects the RAM from any form of electricity static. Let’s now move to the design and functionality section of our Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM review.
Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM Review – Design and Functionality
RGB Version
A vast majority of people will opt for the RGB version because it looks more appealing, especially on gaming rigs. But let’s not forget that there are also lots of anti-RGB people.
With the RGB version, there’s a translucent light diffuser that sits firmly on the heat spreaders on top of the RAM. This gives an excellent view of all the RGB lighting goodness.
The back of these modules has a Ballistix Max logo painted, and a logo below it which indicates the memory model, specifications, and QR codes.
Upon putting the RGB models in the system, the diffuser gives an evenly distributed lighting around, with eight RGB LEDs if you’ll look closely. We’ll get into the RGB configuration later in the hands-on section.
Non-RGB Version
The non-RGB version of the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM still looks excellent and more minimalistic than the RGB version. It suits any computer case, especially those with matte black colours.
As mentioned above, if you’re not into RGB, then this is the version you should get. It’s $29 cheaper, but make sure to look for the model number BLM2K8G40C18U4B.
Both Versions
Both RGB and non-RGB versions are very sleek and minimalistic. These two versions feature the same latency, voltage, and density. Therefore, you won’t notice any performance difference when comparing or mixing them both.
You can try overclocking if you want to gain a higher frequency. However, we highly don’t recommend it if you lose performance.
It’s also not recommended if your power supply can’t handle it. Be sure to have enough headroom if you’re overclocking any computer component.
Overall, the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM promises to deliver both excellent aesthetics and performance.
Let’s now move over to the key features section of our Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM review.
Key Features of the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM
Multi-Platform RGB Lighting (RGB Version)
The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM is certified to work with Crucial MOD software, ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light Sync, Gigabyte Aorus RGB Fusion 2.0, and more!
Ultimate Lighting Mod
With the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM, you can create your custom light bar by using any 3D printer with provided 3D files.
Easily control the lighting pattern and brightness via Ballistix Memory MOD Utility or your motherboard manufacturer’s RGB software.
Low-Profile Form Factor
The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM comes in a low-profile form factor that fits on almost any computer rig with large CPU heatsinks and small cases.
Faster Than Any Standard Crucial DDR4 Memory
The Crucial Ballistix MAX series is currently one of the fastest RAMs available. Grab one and enjoy an extraordinary performance, especially on AMD Ryzen machines.
For Gamers and Performance Enthusiasts
Most gamers and performance enthusiasts are looking for the fastest parts available. With Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM, you can get the most out of your CPU performance.
Four-Channel Memory Architecture w/ Maximised Data Rates
The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM features multi-channel memory architecture. This increases the overall data transfer rate between the DRAM chips and memory controller. It’s done by adding more channels of communication in-between.
Excellent Aluminum Heat Spreader Design
The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM features an aluminium heat spreader. It protects the DRAM chips and provides excellent cooling.
Intel® XMP 2.0 Profiles For Easy Configuration
The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM utilises Intel’s XMP technology for an easy way to reach the 4000MHz speed you desire! Go to your BIOS and enable it at ease.
Optimised for Both AMD and Intel Platforms
The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM can be used on both AMD and Intel motherboards without the hassle of fiddling with the settings.
Depending on your current processor, you also shouldn’t see any performance loss by using the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM either on Intel and AMD CPUs.
Limited Lifetime Warranty
The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM offers a limited lifetime warranty. If something happens, you can contact them through live chat or phone support here.
Specifications
Let’s now focus on the hardware specifications of the RAM in this section of our Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM review.
The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM 16GB Kit (8GBx2) has a speed of 4000MHz frequency that can be enabled through DOCP (ASUS & AMD Motherboards), EOCP (GIGABYTE & AMD Motherboards), and XMP Profiles (Intel Motherboards).
The RAM modules also have a CAS latency of 18, timings of 18-19-19-39, a voltage of 1.35V, and PC speed of PC4-32000. While these are DDR4 modules, they cannot be used on server computers, as they’re Non-ECC Unbuffered.
If you’re still wondering why the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM is expensive, it’s a single rank with 1024MB DRAM chips on a 64-bit bus. Single-sided RAMs will always be faster than Double-sided ones.
Now that you’re familiar with the specifications of the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM, let’s put it to the test.
Let’s see what performance we can get in the hands-on section of our Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM review.
Hands-on with the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM
For the hands-on section, we’ll fully utilise the RAM by making sure we get the desired speed through the motherboard’s BIOS menu.
But first, let’s fiddle with the Crucial MOD software on the RGB version of the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM.
Crucial MOD Software
The Crucial “MOD” stands for Memory Overview Display. This software shows each DIMM’s information, including frequency, timings for both XMP and JEDEC, temperature, and RGB colour settings.
By default, the Crucial Ballistix MAX RGB version uses the Rainbow Gradient Shift without using the software. But with the software, you can either select all the modules or individually select which DIMM module to change colour.
For the colour modes, you have Gradient Shift, Shift, Double Stack, Slack, Breathing, Fill, Motion Point, Color Step, Inside Out, Water Wave (Color Blending), Flashing, and Static.
You can also adjust the brightness manually, switch modes, specify zones, and customise the colour to your own accord with the colour wheel.
Synthetic Benchmark Results
AIDA64 Memory Bandwidth (Higher is Better):
Read (MB/s)
- Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 CL18: 54817
Write (MB/s)
- Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 CL18: 56921
Copy (MB/s)
- Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 CL18: 58793
Game Benchmark Results
Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey (1080p Highest Preset):
Average FPS
- Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 CL18: 91 fps
Tom Clancy’s The Division 2 (1080p Highest Preset):
Average FPS
- Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 CL18: 134 fps
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided (1080p Highest Preset):
- Average FPS Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 CL18: 128 fps
Shadow of the Tomb Raider (1080p Highest Preset):
Average FPS
- Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 CL18: 121 fps
Why Does RAM Speed Matter?
Nowadays, having a faster RAM frequency can give a significant boost on your games, as it also helps your CPU to access files faster or just run more processes at the same time.
As seen on the results, higher frequencies don’t give you that much of a boost in overall performance if you have an Intel processor. But if you have a Ryzen processor, prioritise getting a RAM with higher speed or frequency.
Now, let’s head to the summary section of our Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM review and discuss our recommendations & opinions.
Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM Review Summary
We’re now down to the summary section of our Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM review. Let’s break down our thoughts on each of the aspects it offers.
The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM kit provides excellent performance at a reasonable price. XMP will work right out of the box, and we didn’t encounter any problems along with the Intel Core i7 10700K CPU.
The heat spreader also did an excellent job of dissipating heat. The Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM has a lot of extra headroom for overclocking, especially for the temperature, although we haven’t tested that here.
Software-wise, the Crucial MOD software also did an excellent job to keep you informed about what’s going on with your RAM sticks. RGB Control is also excellent, and it helps you tune it according to your preferences.
The RGB version of the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM also has very vivid lighting. If you’re aiming for a flashy computer build, this is worth a buy.
Overall, we highly recommend the Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4-4000 RAM. You can grab the RGB version here, and the non-RGB version here. We hope you find your review helpful!
