For small or ultra small form factor (SFF/USFF) systems like the popular Intel NUC, SODIMM (Small-Outline Dual Inline Memory Module) memory is commonly used, which has been limited to a maximum of 64GB (2 x 32GB module) memory since 2019, which I had first shared that the Intel NUC could used the new 32GB modules. While 64GB might have been plentiful back in 2019, it certainly no longer cuts it, especially for any serious VMware Homelab.
Like many, I assumed the SODIMM format has simply hit its limit and with the new proposed CAMM standard looking to replace SODIMM format in the near future, I was honestly not expecting that we could reach higher density modules for SODIMM.
UPDATE (05/18/23) - Officially confirmed Mushkin 48GB DDR5 SODIMM works with DDR5 compatible system with ESXi
UPDATE (05/10/23) - Mushkin has released 48GB modules for three different frequencies (5600, 5200 & 4800 Mhz). For more details, please see below with initial pricing of $349 USD
UPDATE (02/21/23) - Apologies, it looks like Corsair has only released the Desktop memory and NOT Laptop memory (SODIMM) for the new DDR5 capacity modules. I assume those will come shortly, but these are currently only for desktop systems.
Fast forward to 2023, news broke that a new 24GB and 48GB DDR5 SODIMM modules were in the works and today, they just started showing up online for purchase! Currently, only the Corsair Vengeance Desktop (non-SODIMM) with heatsinks are available:
Desktop Memory:
- Corsair Vengeance 48GB (2 x 24GB) listed on Amazon for $184 USD
- Corsair Vengeance 96GB (2 x 48GB) listed on Amazon for $379 USD
Laptop Memory (SO-DIMM):
- Corsair 24GB module CT24G56C46S5 - TBD
- Corsair 48GB module CT48G56C46S5 - TBD
- Mushkin 96GB 5600Mhz (2 x 48GB) MRA5S560LKKD48GX2 listed on Ebay for $349
- Mushkin 96GB 5200Mhz (2 x 48GB) MRA5S520HHHD48GX2 listed on Ebay for $339
- Mushkin 96GB 4800Mhz (2 x 48GB) MRA5S480FGGD48GX2 list on Ebay for $324
This is great news for homelabbers, but before you rush out and make a purchase. These new memory modules are only for DDR5 and there are currently not many SFF/USFF kits that actually support DDR5 and might benefit those in the near term with DIY system. In addition, to get the full benefit, you will also need a system that can support DDR5 5200MHz.
🔥📰 24GB & 48GB DDR5 SO-DIMM modules now available from @CORSAIR 🥳🤩 Great #homelab upgrade ... now just need kits that support DDR5 or if you're DIY'ing
🔸 48GB (2x24GB) is $184 USD - https://t.co/9BU9m7F8rb
🔹 95GB (2x48GB) is $379 USD - https://t.co/ZBV7BaQctv pic.twitter.com/33xpkJ1Q9q
— William Lam (@lamw.bsky.social | @*protected email*) (@lamw) February 21, 2023
Any nucs we find that can accept DDR5 at 5200 MHz are very expensive.
We use Dell 5280 Workstations with W-2155 processors and all internal storage is M.2 Nvme. These cost half or less than half than these new gen Intel Nucs.
Performance is extremely good with these Dell Workstations and ESXi 8 works perfectly on them.
Well, there actually aren't any NUCs that support DDR5 5200 🙂
The closet would be the NUC 13 Extreme, which is actually a desktop form factor. Ultimately, the type of kits folks select will depend on a number of factors and requirements ... no one size fits all, but good to have options IMHO