Performance: 38 out of 40.
We do feel in necessary to point out that while CL32-40-40 is a great step in the right direction, there are faster kits widely available. The same holds true of the countless number of kits that also offer plug-and-play setup (typically JDECC standard frequency kits that run at 1.2V). What is tricky is trying to find low-latency, high-frequency kits that also offer all the same level of ease of use that the Crucial OC Pro Gen 2 options have. Now that is tough to find; furthermore, those who want to make the Pro OC CL32-40-40 kits even faster will find it is a fairly easy endeavor to shave those secondary/tertiary timings down nicely. That is indeed win-win-win as far as we are concerned.
Ease of Use:20 out of 20
While we are tempted to dock the “black” kit half a point here (as no one likes having to blackout a kit of RAM that is intended for professional builds) the overall ease of use combined with the low profile nature of these kits makes that penalty a bit too harsh. Put simply, this is a high-performance kit that is as pretty as it is powerful. It is chill as it is capable… and generally speaking is worthy of a 20 out 20 score. Albeit just barely. If you disagree, we understand your differing point of view and respect your opinion.
Build Quality & Warranty: 20 out of 20
As with its predecessors, and befitting of their Professional monikers, the next generation Crucial Pro OC models are built to an extremely high standard. One that will not only last through multiple system upgrades but also look like they are worthy of being carried over from one system build to the next… to the next… to the next. Which is good as it does come with, and thus you are paying for, a lifetime warranty. A lifetime warranty backed by a company known for both its customer service and the likelihood of it sticking around for… well… as long as RAM is being made. So scan your receipt and keep it safe. You probably will not need it anytime soon, but “lifetime” is indeed a lot of time for Mr. Murphy to mess with you.
Value: 18 out of 20
Are there cheaper kits widely available? Yes, there are. Are there “faster” kits (be it by latency or frequency standards)? Yes. Are there less costly kits that offer the same plug-and-play ease of use as the Pro OC line? Once again, the answer is yes. None of that matters. None of that matters because once again, Crucial has darn near perfectly blended performance, ease of use, aesthetics, and value. Thus, these new Gen 2 models easily justify their asking price. So much so, we consider them one heck of a deal for those with a need for speed but with a low tolerance for bullsh… err… drama.
Final Score: 96 out of 100 / 96%
When we heard about this refresh to the Pro OC line, we had some concerns over ‘sophomore slump’ as the first gens really did set the bar exceedingly high… and yet somehow this second generation was able to not only meet but exceed our expectations. Be it in their improved performance. Their improved overall aesthetics or the same great ease of use as the first generation. These are DDR5 kits of RAM that are sure to please and can easily be used in a wide swath of builds and niches. So don’t be afraid of their “professional” moniker, as they are just as friendly to novices as they are to pro system builders. Color us highly, highly impressed.
