DDR3L (1.35V) 1600, 1866 and 2133 MHz

DDR3L memory, operating at a low voltage of 1.35V, is an energy-efficient version of the DDR3 standard, offering reduced power consumption and heat generation while still delivering solid performance. It is available in various clock speeds such as 1600 MHz, 1866 MHz, and 2133 MHz, with each speed step offering progressively faster data rates and lower latency, enhancing performance for multitasking, gaming, and heavy applications. The lower voltage of DDR3L makes it particularly suitable for mobile devices and laptops, extending battery life and preventing overheating. Each increase in MHz results in faster data transfer rates, which is beneficial for performance in tasks that rely heavily on memory speed, though the improvements may vary depending on the specific application or workload.

1. DDR3L 1600 MHz

DDR3L memory operating at 1600 MHz is the base speed among the options available for DDR3L RAM. It offers a balanced performance level suitable for most general computing tasks, including web browsing, word processing, and light multimedia usage. The 1600 MHz speed, coupled with the 1.35V power efficiency, makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious users who still need reliable performance. Although it is not as fast as the 1866 MHz or 2133 MHz options, 1600 MHz DDR3L provides adequate performance for typical daily activities on laptops and desktops. For general use, the difference between 1600 MHz and higher speeds is less noticeable, but in data-intensive applications, a faster clock speed may offer advantages.

2. The Performance of DDR3L 1866 MHz

DDR3L at 1866 MHz is the middle ground, offering better performance than the 1600 MHz variant without the higher energy and thermal demands of the 2133 MHz version. With a faster data rate, this memory type is well-suited for users who run moderately demanding applications like photo editing software, lightweight gaming, or multitasking with numerous browser tabs. The increased clock speed helps reduce latency, improving the responsiveness of the system in scenarios that require frequent memory access. Compared to DDR3L 1600, 1866 MHz offers a noticeable performance uplift, making it a good choice for users looking to optimize their systems without switching to more power-intensive memory solutions.

3. The Advantages of DDR3L 2133 MHz

DDR3L memory operating at 2133 MHz offers the fastest data transfer rates in the DDR3L series. This speed is particularly beneficial for tasks that demand high memory bandwidth, such as 3D rendering, intensive multitasking, and certain types of scientific computing. While the performance boost from 1600 MHz to 2133 MHz is not always linear, applications that rely on fast memory access can see noticeable gains. However, the higher speed also means slightly more power consumption and heat, although DDR3L’s low-voltage design helps mitigate these issues. For professionals and power users, DDR3L 2133 MHz provides a valuable combination of efficiency and speed.

Key Benefits of DDR3L 2133 MHz

4. Comparing Speed and Latency Across DDR3L Variants

When comparing the speeds of DDR3L 1600, 1866, and 2133 MHz, it’s important to consider both clock speed and latency. As clock speed increases, latency generally decreases, which means the memory can access data faster. Lower latency contributes to smoother performance in tasks that involve frequent data fetching from memory. For example, DDR3L 1600 typically has a slightly higher latency than 1866 and 2133 MHz versions, which can affect response times in high-speed tasks. Users who need quick data access for tasks such as gaming or media production might benefit from the lower latency of faster DDR3L modules, although casual users may not notice a significant difference.

5. DDR3L Voltage and Power Efficiency

DDR3L’s lower operating voltage of 1.35V, compared to the standard DDR3’s 1.5V, makes it more energy-efficient. This reduced voltage is especially beneficial in laptops and mobile devices, where power consumption has a direct impact on battery life. Lower voltage also means less heat production, which helps in systems with limited cooling options, such as ultrabooks. As the frequency increases from 1600 MHz to 2133 MHz, there may be a slight increase in power draw, but DDR3L remains more efficient overall than DDR3. For consumers concerned with energy costs or extending battery life, DDR3L memory at any speed provides a more sustainable option.

6. Gaming Performance with DDR3L 2133 MHz

For gamers, memory speed can make a difference, though it depends on the game’s requirements. While some games rely heavily on graphics processing, others, especially open-world and simulation games, benefit from faster memory access. DDR3L 2133 MHz can slightly enhance frame rates and reduce loading times, especially in games that involve large asset files. However, for those on a budget, DDR3L 1600 or 1866 MHz still offers solid gaming performance. Gamers should evaluate the demands of their specific titles and weigh the benefits of investing in faster DDR3L modules versus allocating budget to other components like the GPU.

Mixing Speeds and Stability
You can use DDR3L (1.35V) 1866 MHz and 2133 MHz together in the same system, but both modules will operate at the speed of the slower module (1866 MHz in this case). This downclocking ensures compatibility, as most systems can only run all memory sticks at the same frequency. However, mixing speeds may reduce system stability in some cases, so it’s recommended to use matching frequencies if possible for optimal performance and reliability.

When mixing DDR3L (1.35V) RAM sticks of different speeds (such as 1866 MHz and 2133 MHz), the system will automatically run both sticks at the frequency of the slower module, which in this case is 1866 MHz. This behavior, known as "downclocking," is standard because motherboards require all memory modules to operate at a uniform speed to maintain stability.

Key Points to Consider

1. Compatibility and Motherboard Limits: While mixing different frequencies is generally possible, the final compatibility depends on your motherboard and CPU. Some motherboards may be limited to supporting specific speeds or may experience stability issues with mixed frequencies.

2. Potential Performance Impact: When modules operate at a lower shared speed, you lose any performance advantage from the faster stick. The system will default to the lower speed for stability, so both sticks will operate at 1866 MHz in this scenario, which may affect tasks that benefit from higher memory bandwidth.

3. Dual-Channel Performance: If both sticks are the same size and the motherboard supports dual-channel memory, they should still work in dual-channel mode even at the lower speed, helping retain some performance gains compared to single-channel.

4. Voltage Matching: Both sticks should have the same voltage requirements (in this case, DDR3L at 1.35V), which your setup already meets. Mixing 1.5V and 1.35V can sometimes lead to voltage mismatches, which could cause instability.

For the best stability and performance, it’s generally recommended to use memory sticks of the same speed, voltage, and capacity if possible.

7. DDR3L 1600 MHz vs. DDR4 Alternatives

While DDR3L offers low power consumption, some users may wonder how it compares to newer DDR4 memory, which is often faster and more efficient. Although DDR3L 2133 MHz provides respectable speeds, DDR4 starts at 2133 MHz and goes up from there. The advantage of DDR3L is in its lower price and compatibility with older systems, as upgrading to DDR4 requires a motherboard that supports it. DDR3L remains a good choice for users seeking reliable performance at a lower cost, especially for tasks that don’t require the latest technology. Nonetheless, users looking for the best future-proofing may consider the upgrade to DDR4 if their system supports it.

Laptops Using DDR3L RAM

1. Dell Latitude E7450

   • Released with Intel’s 5th Gen processors, it uses DDR3L RAM, supporting speeds up to 1600 MHz.

2. HP ProBook 450 G2

   • This model offers DDR3L RAM slots, running at 1.35V and supporting speeds up to 1600 MHz.

3. Lenovo ThinkPad T450s

   • Known for its business-grade durability, it supports DDR3L RAM up to 12GB.

4. Acer Aspire V3-572G

   • Equipped with DDR3L RAM, this model focuses on a balance of performance and affordability, commonly used with up to 16GB of DDR3L.

5. ASUS ZenBook UX305

   • A thin, lightweight model with DDR3L support, popular among users seeking portable productivity.

Laptops Using DDR4 RAM

1. Dell XPS 15 (9560)

   • This high-performance model features DDR4 memory slots, commonly supporting 2400 MHz RAM.

2. HP Pavilion 15 (2017)

   • Known for its multimedia capabilities, it supports DDR4 RAM up to 2133 MHz.

3. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (6th Gen)

   • This flagship business ultrabook supports LPDDR4 memory, enhancing battery efficiency.

4. Acer Predator Helios 300

   • A gaming-focused laptop, it offers DDR4 support, typically using 2666 MHz speeds.

5. ASUS ROG Strix GL503

   • A gaming model that uses DDR4 memory, supporting speeds up to 2666 MHz for better gaming and multitasking.

This distinction between DDR3L and DDR4 can significantly impact speed, power consumption, and compatibility, with DDR4 generally offering improved performance and efficiency.

“For many users, DDR3L provides an affordable, energy-efficient solution that balances performance with power savings.”

8. Multi-Tasking with DDR3L 1866 MHz

DDR3L 1866 MHz provides an optimal choice for multitasking, allowing users to switch between applications smoothly. For instance, users who work with multiple browser tabs, video streaming, and office applications simultaneously will benefit from the added speed and reduced latency of 1866 MHz memory. The improved data transfer rates mean faster access to frequently used information, making it easier for users to perform multiple tasks without encountering lag. This speed provides a noticeable improvement in response times for most mainstream applications compared to the baseline 1600 MHz DDR3L.

9. Impact on Laptop Battery Life

DDR3L memory’s low 1.35V power requirement positively impacts laptop battery life, especially when compared to standard DDR3. Laptops equipped with DDR3L memory at 1600 MHz, 1866 MHz, or 2133 MHz can all see benefits in terms of battery efficiency. Users can enjoy longer usage times without needing to recharge frequently, making it an ideal choice for mobile users. For applications where processing demand is lower, like word processing or browsing, DDR3L’s efficiency shines. However, in more power-intensive applications, higher frequencies like 2133 MHz may draw slightly more power, though they remain more efficient than higher-voltage DDR3 equivalents.

10. Choosing the Right DDR3L Speed for Your Needs

Ultimately, choosing the right DDR3L speed depends on a user’s specific needs. For general computing tasks, DDR3L 1600 MHz is often sufficient. However, for those needing faster performance, DDR3L 1866 MHz or 2133 MHz might be more suitable, especially for gaming or professional applications like video editing. It’s worth noting that while faster memory speeds can enhance performance, the improvement is only significant if the tasks require it. If a user’s tasks are not memory-intensive, opting for a lower frequency can be more cost-effective while still providing the power-saving benefits of DDR3L.

1. 1600 MHz – Best for basic tasks and browsing.
2. 1866 MHz – Good for multitasking and moderate gaming.
3. 2133 MHz – Ideal for intensive tasks.
4. DDR3L – Compatible with older systems.
5. 1.35V – Energy-efficient for laptops and mobile use.

DDR3L provides various options catering to different performance needs, from basic computing with 1600 MHz to high-performance multitasking at 2133 MHz, all while maintaining low power usage. This variety helps users select memory that best aligns with their computing demands and power efficiency requirements.