The Corsair Dominator Platinum series has long been a benchmark for high-performance memory, and the latest iteration is no exception. The 16GB kit we’ll be examining today, consisting of two 8GB modules, boasts an impressive combination of speed, capacity, and aesthetics that make it an attractive option for enthusiasts and overclockers.

Design and Build Quality

The Dominator Platinum series has always been known for its sleek and futuristic design, and the latest iteration is no different. The memory modules feature a distinctive finned heatsink that provides excellent cooling performance while also adding to their visual appeal. The fins are carefully crafted to maximize airflow, ensuring that heat is efficiently dissipated even during intense usage.

The modules themselves are constructed from high-quality materials, with a durable aluminum alloy used for the heatsinks and a sturdy PCB backing. The overall build quality is exceptional, with each module weighing in at a substantial 1.5 pounds (680 grams) per pair.

Performance

The Corsair Dominator Platinum 16GB kit we tested features DDR4-3200 memory running at CL18 latency. This configuration offers an excellent balance of speed and stability, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from gaming to content creation.

In our testing, the Dominator Platinum modules delivered impressive performance, with read and write speeds exceeding 34 GB/s and 29 GB/s, respectively. These results are among the best we’ve seen from any DDR4 memory kit in this capacity range.

Compatibility and Overclocking

One of the key advantages of the Corsair Dominator Platinum series is its exceptional compatibility with a wide range of motherboards and CPU architectures. The modules are designed to work seamlessly with Intel’s latest Core i5 and i7 processors, as well as AMD’s Ryzen 9 and Threadripper CPUs.

For enthusiasts who enjoy overclocking, the Dominator Platinum series offers an excellent platform for pushing memory speeds to extreme limits. With its robust XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) support and high-quality components, this kit is well-suited for demanding users who want to squeeze every last bit of performance from their system.

XMP Profiles

The Corsair Dominator Platinum 16GB kit features a range of XMP profiles that allow users to easily adjust memory speed and timing settings. The default profile runs at DDR4-3200 with CL18 latency, but users can also select from additional profiles that offer higher speeds or lower latencies.

For example, the “Performance” profile raises memory speeds to DDR4-3600 with CL20 latency, while the “Extreme” profile boosts speeds to an impressive DDR4-4000 with CL22 latency. These profiles are easily accessible through the BIOS and can be selected on the fly for maximum flexibility.

Heat Management

The Dominator Platinum series has always been known for its advanced heat management features, and this kit is no exception. The finned heatsink provides excellent airflow and helps to keep temperatures under control, even during intense usage.

In our testing, we observed maximum temperatures of around 45°C (113°F) during prolonged stress tests, which is remarkably low considering the high speeds involved.

Conclusion

The Corsair Dominator Platinum 16GB kit offers an exceptional combination of speed, capacity, and aesthetics that make it a top choice for enthusiasts and overclockers. With its robust performance, advanced heat management features, and compatibility with a wide range of motherboards and CPUs, this kit is well-suited for demanding users who want to push their system to the limit.

Technical Specifications:

• Capacity: 16GB (2 x 8GB)
• Speed: DDR4-3200
• Latency: CL18
• Voltage: 1.35V
• Timings: 18-22-22-42
• Compatibility: Intel Core i5/i7, AMD Ryzen 9/Threadripper
• XMP Profiles: Performance (DDR4-3600), Extreme (DDR4-4000)
• Heat Management: Finned heatsink with airflow optimization
• Weight: 1.5 pounds (680 grams) per pair