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RAM Latency Calculator

Turn a memory kit’s data rate (MT/s) and CAS latency (CL) into real access latency in nanoseconds so you can compare kits fairly.

Runs locally in your browser

Kit A

Kit B

Kit A first-word latency
10.00 ns
Kit B first-word latency
10.00 ns
Kit A true clock3000 MHz
Kit A cycle time0.333 ns
Kit B true clock3600 MHz
Kit B cycle time0.278 ns

First-word latency = CL × 2000 ÷ data rate. Lower is better. A higher data rate can offset a higher CL, so compare the nanosecond figure rather than the CL number alone.

What is the RAM Latency Calculator?

This tool converts a memory kit’s advertised data rate and CAS latency into true first-word latency in nanoseconds — the fair way to compare kits with different speeds.

How to use it

  1. 1Enter the memory data rate in MT/s (e.g. 6000).
  2. 2Enter the CAS latency (CL) value (e.g. 30).
  3. 3Read the true latency in nanoseconds.

How it works

The bus clock is half the data rate (DDR transfers twice per cycle). True latency (ns) = CL / (data rate / 2) × 1000 = CL × 2000 / data rate.

DDR5-6000 CL30

Latency = 30 × 2000 / 6000 = 10.0 ns, slightly better than DDR5-6400 CL34 (~10.6 ns).

Limitations & notes

  • Only first-word CAS latency is modeled; sub-timings also matter.
  • Real workload performance depends on bandwidth, not just latency.

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