OCZ 4200EL: Tops in Memory Performance

Final Words

Without a doubt, OCZ has produced the fastest DDR memory ever tested at AnandTech. It is rated at DDR533 and performs at that speed using better than rated timings. The highest stable overclock of the 4200EL was an astounding 280FSB at 1:1 or synchronous settings. At the other end of the scale, OCZ 4200EL performs at the Intel chipset rated DDR400 using fast CAS 2 timings.

OCZ joins Corsair and Mushkin in producing memory that is outstanding for high 1:1 overclocks, but will also perform with fast timings at DDR400. However, OCZ goes even further, creating the fastest memory we have ever tested. We like the recent trends that we are seeing in high-end memory. While we could argue all day whether anyone really needs such fast memory, and whether synchronous or asynchronous operation gives the best performance for the dollar, it is hard to dispute that the latest DDR500+ memory gives it all to the buyer. You can run at fast speed at DDR400, which early DDR500 could not do. Or you can run at the highest synchronous (1:1) settings that your CPU can likely handle. And you can do them both with the same memory — albeit expensive memory.

We stated in our review of Mushkin 400 High Performance and Corsair XMS4000 PRO, that if your goal is the highest 1:1 overclock that you can achieve, then OCZ PC4000 or Geil 4000Platinum should be your choice. We would now add that there is a new chanpion of the highest overclock, and that is OCZ 4200EL. It soundly outperforms both OCZ4000 and Geil 4000. If you want the fastest DDR400 memory performance that you can get and a reasonable overclock, then Mushkin 3500 Level2 or OCZ 3700 GOLD are still the fastest choices for DDR400.

However, if you want great timings at DDR400, top performance at DDR533, and the top overclock you can achieve above DDR500, then OCZ 4200EL should be your choice. If you can settle for a little less top-end overclocking, then Corsair 4000 PRO or Mushkin 4000 High Performance are great choices built on the same “Universal High-Speed” philosophy.

We don't know how OCZ managed to do it all with 4200EL, but they did. Until we start seeing CAS 2 DDR500+ memory, we can say with assurance that OCZ 4200EL is the fastest DDR memory that you can buy.