Quick Answer
For SA gaming builds, DDR5 is now the default and often near or below DDR4 pricing; a 32GB DDR5-6000 kit sits around R1,600. New AMD and Intel platforms only take DDR5, so for a fresh build there is little reason to consider DDR4 anymore.
Why DDR5 Makes Sense For New Builds
Current-generation CPUs from both AMD and Intel use DDR5 exclusively, so a new build commits you to it regardless. The good news is that pricing has matured: a fast 32GB DDR5-6000 kit is affordable and gives gaming headroom for years. Higher bandwidth helps in CPU-bound titles and at 1080p competitive frame rates, and 32GB is the comfortable sweet spot for gaming plus browser tabs, Discord and streaming.
When the kit arrives, head straight into the BIOS and switch on the EXPO or XMP profile, because without it a fast DDR5-6000 kit quietly runs at a slow JEDEC default and you lose the very bandwidth you paid extra for.
Picking A DDR5 Kit In SA
For a gaming build, target 32GB as two 16GB sticks for dual-channel speed, at DDR5-6000 with a sensible CL30 timing on AMD or a matching profile on Intel. Avoid overspending on extreme 7,200-plus kits unless you chase benchmarks; the gaming gain over a good 6000 kit is small. Check the motherboard's supported speeds and enable the EXPO or XMP profile so the RAM actually runs at its rated speed.
FAQ
Is DDR5 worth it over DDR4 for a new build?
For a new build the question is moot; current CPUs only take DDR5. Pricing has matured, so a 32GB DDR5-6000 kit is an easy, affordable choice.
How much RAM should a gaming build have?
32GB is the comfortable sweet spot for gaming plus Discord, browser tabs and streaming. 16GB still games well but leaves less headroom.
What speed DDR5 should I buy?
DDR5-6000 with CL30 on AMD or a matching profile on Intel is the value sweet spot. Faster kits cost more for little gaming gain.
32GB DDR5-6000 kit as two matched sticks and enable EXPO or XMP in the BIOS so it runs at full rated speed.
