What we think
UndervoltingGoing back to the Intel system, we can adjust the DRAM voltage in Windows by using the Turbo-V application. By running Prime95 and then dropping the voltage until failure sets in, we can determine just where the threshold of the LoVo modules is.
Impressively, they continued to pass the test until the memory juice was dialled down to 1.25V - the lowest we have seen for a DDR3-1,600MHz set.
Concluding thoughts
Kingston is looking to make some noise with the low-voltage DDR3 modules marketed under the LoVo banner. Our test modules are specified to run at 1,600MHz CL9 with an operating voltage of 1.35V, or 0.3V below many comparable kits.
Priced at equivalent levels to standard dual-channel kits in the US, the 4GB (2 x 2GB) LoVo set attracts a small premium in the UK. But is that premium worth it?
Our investigation on both Intel and AMD platforms shows that there is a slight reduction in power-draw when compared to memories guzzling 1.65V, and the effect is akin to using DDR3-1,280/1,333 kits with a JEDEC-approved 1.50V rating.
The benefit of the LoVo brand will be felt by people who are able to use a large number of modules in one system, thereby compounding the advantage we've seen from a kit consisting of two sticks. This is why low-power modules are especially suited to the workstation/server environment, where both power and cooling savings literally mount up. Indeed, although not certified for such use, putting three sets (six modules) into an X58/Core i7 platform would make sense for some power users.
Bottom line: the Kingston 4GB DDR3-1,600 CL9 LoVo 1.35V modules are seriously worth considering if you can purchase them for the same outlay as a comparable set that chews through 1.65V; there are no downsides for doing so.
The good
Decent speeds for low voltages
Small premium over regular DDR3 modules in the UK; none in the US
The not so good
The power-saving gains are minimal for a two-module kit
HEXUS Rating
Kingston 4GB DDR3-1,600
CL9 LoVoHEXUS Awards
HEXUS Where2Buy
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