German hardware retailer Caseking is selling V-Color memory kits featuring one functioning 16GB module and one non-functioning RGB dummy shell for 330 euros, according to Videocardz. The product, marketed as “Manta XSky,” costs roughly eight times the per-gigabyte price of equivalent memory sold last year, driven by component price spikes linked to AI industry demand.
The Rise of Dummy Memory Bundles in PC Building
Hardware manufacturer V-Color has launched retail memory packages where only one of the two included modules actually functions, according to Videocardz. While manufacturers have previously sold standalone packages containing exclusively dummy modules from several producers, this marks the first time a set with working and non-working memory is sold in stores. The German retailer Caseking lists the “Manta XSky” model containing one real 16GB module and one matching RGB-dummy at 330 euros. By comparison, Videocardz reports that a set with two functioning 8GB modules could be bought for 64 euro last summer, making V-Color’s new product cost around eight times as much per gigabyte of memory.
Performance Impact and AMD Compatibility
V-Color markets these packages toward gamers who build PCs with AMD Ryzen processors, and especially models with so-called 3D V-Cache. The large cache in these processors dampens the disadvantages of running with just one memory module. Furthermore, these disadvantages are also fundamentally much smaller than they were for earlier memory standards like DDR4. It will therefore in practice not be any problem performance-wise to run just one module, no matter which processor you pair it with. “The goal of this 1+1 solution is to give gamers a more flexible and accessible way to start their DDR5 collection on, without giving up appearance or future upgrade potential,” a V-Color representative stated. The idea is consequently that users can replace the fake memory module with a real memory module when prices one day fall.
Industry Reception and Market Costs
Technology site Overclock3D nevertheless calls the concept “fake it until you make it.” Which is quite apt. The product is first and foremost aimed at a bit vain gamers who want their PC to look more “complete” with two modules installed, or who want to give the impression of having more memory than what is the case. In Norway, where V-Color sells none of its products, the lowest price on a 1x 16 GB 6000 MT/s module is now around 2800 kroner. As late as last summer, one could easily pick up twice as much memory for just 1400 kroner. Demand from the AI industry has since sent the prices of both memory and components like storage through the roof.
Did you know? The concept of dummy memory modules allows PC builders to populate empty motherboard slots for aesthetics without paying for extra RAM capacity they might not currently need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dummy RAM modules affect PC performance?
Why are DDR5 memory prices currently so high?
According to market tracking, increased global demand from the artificial intelligence sector has driven up the cost of memory components and storage hardware.
Can you upgrade a dummy module to real RAM later?
Yes. The intended design allows users to swap out the non-functioning RGB shell for a real memory stick when they choose to upgrade.
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