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Patriot Viper Venom DDR5-5200 C36 16GB (1x16GB) specifications and in-depth review

Patriot Viper Venom DDR5-5200 C36 16GB (1x16GB)

Manufacturer: Patriot

The Patriot Viper Venom DDR5-5200 C36 is a 16GB single-module DDR5 desktop memory kit from Patriot, designed for systems that support the latest generation of DDR5 technology. It ships as a 288-pin DIMM with an integrated heatsink and operates at 5200 MHz when configured through its XMP or EXPO profile, while its SPD default sits at 4800 MHz.

Timings are set at CL36-36-36-68, translating to a true latency of roughly 13.85 ns at the rated speed. The module runs at 1.2V and carries support for both Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO, offering broad platform compatibility. It does not use Samsung B-Die ICs, does not support ECC, and comes without RGB lighting. At 43 mm tall, it maintains a relatively low profile for a heatsink-equipped DDR5 module.

Pros
  • Supports both Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO, making it compatible with a wide range of modern platforms without manual tuning
  • Includes an integrated heatsink to help manage thermals during operation
  • Tested speed of 5200 MHz exceeds the SPD default of 4800 MHz, offering a meaningful boost when the XMP or EXPO profile is enabled
  • Operates at 1.2V, which is within the standard DDR5 voltage range
  • No RGB lighting keeps the design understated, which suits builds where visual minimalism is preferred
Cons
  • Ships as a single 16GB module, which means no dual-channel configuration out of the box
  • Does not use Samsung B-Die ICs, which some users specifically seek out for overclocking headroom
  • CL36 timings are relatively loose for a DDR5-5200 kit, resulting in a true latency of 13.85 ns
  • ECC is not supported, ruling it out for workloads that require error-correcting memory
Who is this for?

This module works well for users building or upgrading a mainstream desktop system who want a single-stick DDR5 starting point with broad platform compatibility. The support for both Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO makes it a practical choice for those who want the 5200 MHz rated speed activated automatically without manual tuning. The integrated heatsink and clean, RGB-free design also suit builders who prioritize a tidy, no-frills aesthetic inside their case.

Who is this NOT for?

Users who need dual-channel memory performance from the outset will find a single 16GB module limiting, as it cannot take advantage of the bandwidth gains that come with a two-stick configuration. Those focused on aggressive manual overclocking may also be deterred by the absence of Samsung B-Die ICs and the relatively loose CL36 timings, which leave less headroom for pushing latency lower. Additionally, workstation or server users requiring ECC error correction will need to look elsewhere, as this module does not support it.

Performance:

true latency 13.85 ns
memory speed (Tested Speed) 5200
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 operates at a tested speed of 5200 MHz, stepping down to 4800 MHz at its SPD default. Primary timings are set at CL36-36-36-68, covering CAS Latency, tRCD, tRP, and tRAS respectively, which works out to a true latency of 13.85 ns at the rated frequency.

General info:

form factor 288-pin DIMM
memory size (total) 1 x 16GB
has Samsung B-Die ✕
voltage 1.2V
height 43 mm
memory size 16GB

This kit consists of a single 16GB module in a 288-pin DIMM form factor, standing 43 mm tall. It operates at 1.2V and does not use Samsung B-Die ICs.

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 platforms to load the rated speed and timings automatically. It includes an integrated heatsink but does not feature RGB lighting. ECC memory is not supported.

Benchmarks:

Final Verdict

The Patriot Viper Venom DDR5-5200 C36 strikes a straightforward balance for users stepping into DDR5 territory on either an Intel or AMD platform, with its dual XMP 3.0 and EXPO profile support being its most practical strength. The included heatsink and clean aesthetic add a degree of build-readiness, while the 5200 MHz tested speed offers a tangible step beyond the SPD default. That said, the single-module configuration and CL36 timings mean it is better suited to everyday desktop builds than to latency-sensitive or bandwidth-demanding workloads. For users who need a no-fuss DDR5 upgrade with wide platform compatibility, the Viper Venom DDR5-5200 C36 is a solid, unpretentious choice — though those chasing maximum performance will want to look toward tighter-timed or dual-module configurations.