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No: the documented Intel 4th-generation desktop platform for LGA 1150 uses DDR3 or DDR3L memory, not DDR4. If you are replacing RAM, check the exact motherboard model and revision before buying; the socket name alone does not establish the board’s capacity, speed, or DIMM requirements.

Why DDR4 is not compatible with LGA 1150

Intel’s documentation for 4th-generation Core desktop processors using LGA 1150 specifies DDR3 or DDR3L memory. For example, Intel lists DDR3-1333/1600 or DDR3L-1333/1600 MHz for its Core i3-4xxx processors. Its Core i7 documentation likewise lists DDR3/DDR3L for relevant 4th-generation i7 families. See Intel’s Core i3 desktop processor support information and Intel’s Core i7 desktop processor support information.

DDR4 support on later Intel platforms does not make DDR4 backward-compatible with these LGA 1150 systems. The cited Intel processor documentation and board specifications do not establish a DDR4 adapter or other workaround. Do not buy DDR4 for an LGA 1150 board unless documentation for the exact board explicitly says it supports it.

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What compatible RAM looks like on specific LGA 1150 boards

Motherboard specifications show why it is important to verify the board rather than shop by socket alone. These are examples, not universal limits for every LGA 1150 motherboard:

#1 Best Overall
Timetec 16GB KIT(2x8GB) DDR3L / DDR3 1600MHz (DDR3L-1600) PC3L-12800 / PC3-12800 Non-ECC Unbuffered 1.35V/1.5V CL11 2Rx8 Dual Rank 240 Pin UDIMM Desktop PC Computer Memory RAM(SDRAM) Module Upgrade
  • [Color] PCB color may vary (black or green) depending on production batch. Quality and performance remain consistent across all Timetec products.
  • DDR3L / DDR3 1600MHz PC3L-12800 / PC3-12800 240-Pin Unbuffered Non-ECC 1.35V / 1.5V CL11 Dual Rank 2Rx8 based 512x8
  • Module Size: 16GB KIT(2x8GB Modules) Package: 2x8GB ; JEDEC standard 1.35V, this is a dual voltage piece and can operate at 1.35V or 1.5V
  • For DDR3 Desktop Compatible with Intel and AMD CPU, Not for Laptop
  • Guaranteed Lifetime warranty from Purchase Date and Free technical support based on United States
Motherboard Published memory specification Source
MSI H87-G43 Four DDR3 DIMM slots; up to 32 GB; 1066/1333/1600 MHz; dual-channel, non-ECC, unbuffered memory. MSI H87-G43 specifications
Supermicro C7Z87 Four DIMM slots; up to 32 GB of unbuffered, non-ECC UDIMM; DDR3-1600. The product page marks this SKU discontinued. Supermicro C7Z87 specifications

How to check which RAM to buy

  1. Identify the exact motherboard model and revision. Read the model printed on the board or shown in system information, then check the manufacturer’s specifications or manual for that precise revision.
  2. Confirm the memory generation. Look for DDR3 or DDR3L; do not substitute DDR4 based only on a listing that mentions LGA 1150.
  3. Check the configuration limits. Verify maximum capacity, number of DIMMs, supported module organization, and speed. A board may publish different limits from another board with the same socket.
  4. Check voltage and memory type. Confirm the specified voltage and whether the board requires non-ECC unbuffered memory or supports another type. Intel recommends memory adhering to the JEDEC DDR3 specification of 1.5 volts, plus or minus 5 percent, for the cited Core i3 processors; Intel warns that higher voltage can damage the processor or significantly reduce its lifespan.
  5. Cross-check the processor specification. Confirm the memory support for the exact CPU as well as the motherboard before ordering.

A listing such as “DDR3 1600MHz desktop UDIMM” is only a starting point: make sure its capacity, voltage, and module arrangement match the board’s documentation.

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Do not confuse cooler fit with RAM compatibility

Intel Support states that LGA 1150 and LGA 1155 sockets have the same CPU-cooler mounting holes in its article, “Is FCLGA1150 Cooler Compatible with LGA1155?”, last reviewed September 7, 2022. That statement concerns cooler mounting only. It says nothing about RAM compatibility, and a cooler must still suit the processor’s thermal and power requirements.

Quick Recap

Rank #4
8GB Kit (2X4GB) DDR3 1600MHz PC3-12800U 4GB 2Rx8 240-pin Dimm CL11 1.5V Desktop RAM Memory Module
  • 【DDR3 2x 4GB 1600MHz 12800 Udimm Desktop RAM Card】DDR3-1600, PC3-12800, Unbuffered, Dual Rank, Non ECC, 2Rx8, 240-Pin, 1.5V, CL11 memoria ram
  • 【Advanced Chips】All DDR3 4GB 12800 ram card are high quality ram memory module, apply for desktop computer AMD, Intel, Mac system
  • 【Stable and Durable】8GB DDR3-1600MHz Udimm, 100% tested for stability, durability and compatibility. We test all rams before shipment to ensure all PC3-12800U ram card works stably and normally
  • 【Increases System Performance】PC3 8GB ram will empower your computer to achieve faster loading times, system responsiveness, increase your system's ability to handle greater workloads. Note: Please make sure your desktop computer meets PC3 12800 1600 kit
  • 【Lifetime Service】Compatible with Macbook, iMac, HP, Dell, Lenovo, ASUS, Acer, etc. Lifetime warranty, free technical support. Any questions, feel free to contact us, we will reply within 24hrs
Rank #3
Patriot Viper 3 DDR3 RAM 16GB (2X8GB) 1866MHz CL10 Desktop Memory
  • Capacity: 16GB (2 x 8GB) Kit
  • DIMM Type: 240-Pin NON-ECC UDIMM Voltage: 1.5
  • Tested Frequency: PC3-15000 (1866MHz) Tested Timings: 10-11-10-30
  • Feature Overclock: XMP 1.3
Rank #2
Timetec 32GB KIT(4x8GB) DDR3L / DDR3 1600MHz (DDR3L-1600) PC3L-12800 / PC3-12800 Non-ECC Unbuffered 1.35V/1.5V CL11 2Rx8 Dual Rank 240 Pin UDIMM Desktop PC Computer Memory RAM(SDRAM) Module Upgrade
  • [Color] PCB color may vary (black or green) depending on production batch. Quality and performance remain consistent across all Timetec products.
  • DDR3L / DDR3 1600MHz PC3L-12800 / PC3-12800 240-Pin Unbuffered Non-ECC 1.35V / 1.5V CL11 Dual Rank 2Rx8 based 512x8
  • Module Size: 32GB KIT(4x8GB Modules) Package: 4x8GB ; JEDEC standard 1.35V, this is a dual voltage piece and can operate at 1.35V or 1.5V
  • For DDR3 Desktop Compatible with Intel and AMD CPU, Not for Laptop
  • Guaranteed Lifetime warranty from Purchase Date and Free technical support based on United States

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