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Patriot Viper Elite 5 RGB DDR5-5600 C36 16GB (1x16GB) specifications and in-depth review

Patriot Viper Elite 5 RGB DDR5-5600 C36 16GB (1x16GB)

Manufacturer: Patriot

The Patriot Viper Elite 5 RGB DDR5-5600 C36 is a 16GB single-module memory kit designed for systems that support DDR5. It ships as a 1x16GB configuration in the standard 288-pin DIMM form factor, making it a straightforward drop-in option for compatible desktop platforms. The module includes an integrated heatsink and RGB lighting, giving it a visible presence in open-chassis builds.

Operating at a tested speed of 5600 MHz with a CL36-36-36-68 timing profile, the kit delivers a true latency of approximately 12.86 ns at 1.35V. The SPD base speed is 4800 MHz, while higher frequencies are accessible through both Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO profiles. The module does not use Samsung B-Die and does not support ECC, and its 44 mm height should be factored in when pairing with large CPU coolers.

Pros
  • Supports both Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO profiles, making it compatible with a wide range of modern desktop platforms
  • Runs at a tested speed of 5600 MHz, above the DDR5 base SPD speed of 4800 MHz
  • Includes an integrated heatsink to help manage heat during operation
  • RGB lighting is built in for users who want illuminated memory in their build
  • Ships as a single 16GB module, leaving the second slot open for future capacity expansion
Cons
  • CL36 primary timings result in a true latency of 12.86 ns, which is not among the tighter options available at this speed
  • Does not use Samsung B-Die, which some users specifically seek out for overclocking headroom
  • Single-channel configuration out of the box, requiring an additional module to run in dual-channel mode
  • At 44 mm tall, clearance with larger CPU coolers may be a concern in some builds
  • ECC memory is not supported, making it unsuitable for workloads that require error-correcting memory
Who is this for?

This module works well for users building a DDR5-capable desktop system who want a straightforward single-stick setup with room to add a second module later. The dual-profile XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO support makes it a practical fit for both Intel and AMD platforms without requiring manual tuning. Users who want RGB lighting and a heatsink in an open-chassis build will find both included without needing aftermarket additions.

Who is this NOT for?

This kit is not a good match for users who need dual-channel memory performance out of the box, as it ships as a single module. Those who prioritize tight latency, particularly for latency-sensitive workloads, may find the CL36 timings and 12.86 ns true latency less appealing than tighter alternatives available at the same speed. It is also entirely unsuitable for any system or workload requiring ECC memory support, such as certain professional or data-integrity-focused environments.

Performance:

true latency 12.86 ns
memory speed (Tested Speed) 5600
memory speed (SPD) 4800 MHz
DDR memory version 5
CAS Latency (CL) 36
tRAS timing 68
tRCD timing 36
tRP timing 36

This DDR5 module runs at a tested speed of 5600 MHz, with a base SPD speed of 4800 MHz. Its primary timing configuration sits at CL36-36-36-68, covering CAS Latency, tRCD, tRP, and tRAS respectively, which translates to a true latency of 12.86 ns at the rated frequency.

General info:

form factor 288-pin DIMM
memory size (total) 1 x 16GB
has Samsung B-Die ✕
voltage 1.35V
height 44 mm
memory size 16GB

The module ships as a single 16GB stick in the standard 288-pin DIMM form factor, operating at 1.35V. It stands 44 mm tall, which is worth checking against CPU cooler clearance in tighter builds. The kit does not use Samsung B-Die memory.

Features:

Intel XMP / AMD EXPO Intel XMP 3.0, AMD EXPO
Supports ECC memory ✕
Has an integrated heatsink ✓
has RGB lighting ✓

The module supports both Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO profiles, allowing compatible motherboards to load the rated frequency and timings automatically. It comes fitted with an integrated heatsink and includes RGB lighting. ECC memory is not supported.

Benchmarks:

Final Verdict

The Patriot Viper Elite 5 RGB DDR5-5600 C36 is a competent single-module DDR5 kit that covers the essentials for a modern desktop build — a tested speed of 5600 MHz, broad platform compatibility through Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO support, and a complete physical package with heatsink and RGB lighting included. The single-stick configuration and CL36 timings mean it is best suited for users who prioritize platform flexibility and expandability over immediate dual-channel throughput or the tightest possible latency figures. For a mainstream DDR5 build where compatibility and ease of setup matter most, it delivers a well-rounded package; users with more specific performance or reliability requirements should weigh those needs carefully against what this kit offers.