A global memory shortage has driven RAM prices extremely high, making dual-module kits unaffordable for many. In response, V-Color is launching "1+1 value packs" that pair one real DDR5 memory module with a cosmetic dummy stick, allowing budget-conscious builders to achieve a fully populated look without the cost of actual dual-channel performance.
These filler modules are purely for aesthetics, synchronizing with RGB lighting but adding no memory capacity. The new kits are targeted at AMD systems, and while AMD's 3D V-Cache chips can partially mitigate the performance loss of a single real stick, a true dual-channel setup remains superior for performance.
The main topics covered are the high cost of RAM, the introduction and purpose of dummy memory modules, the specifics of V-Color's new product, and the performance trade-offs involved with such kits.
RAM kits are now sold with one fake RAM stick alongside a real one to create a performance illusion — 1+1 'value pack' offers desperate psychological relief as the memory shortage worsens
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The best RAM on the market has become extremely expensive and out of reach for most consumers since the global memory shortage began. Fortunately, V-Color has stepped in to save the day. The company has announced its 1+1 value packs, which cleverly include one real memory module alongside a matching filler module. Even if your budget only allows you to purchase a single real memory module, you can still achieve the look of a dual-module setup in your build.
Filler modules, more commonly known as dummy modules, have become a popular accessory for PC builders in recent years. Corsair pioneered the trend when it launched its Light Enhancement Kits (LEKs), giving consumers an affordable way to populate all the empty memory slots on their motherboards. These visually identical replicas of authentic memory modules enhance the overall appearance of systems, helping consumers achieve that coveted, fully equipped look. Their sole purpose is cosmetic, though. While they light up and synchronize with your existing RGB ecosystem, they don't contribute to your computer’s memory capacity or performance.
Despite the growing importance of aesthetics in PC building, few memory vendors have fully embraced the concept of dummy or filler memory modules. V-Color is the only brand that has invested significantly in the idea. The company not only offers filler modules as standalone packs but also includes them as additional accessories in some of its existing memory kits. Today's announcement marks the launch of new 1+1 DDR5 memory kits designed specifically for AMD systems.
Article continues below“The goal of this 1+1 DDR5 solution is to give gamers a more flexible and accessible way to start their DDR5 build without sacrificing appearance or future upgrade potential,” said a V-Color representative in the press release.
V-Color is launching its new 1+1 value packs from both the Manta Sky and Manta XFinity series, beginning with DDR5-6400 speeds. The manufacturer didn't share the memory timings or whether Intel XMP 3.0 support is present. Given that AMD is the target for these 1+1 value packs, they may only come with AMD EXPO support. The Manta Sky series arrives in a 16GB configuration, while the Manta XFinity series will be available with a slightly larger 24GB option. V-Color has also shared its plans to roll out 2+2 configurations in the future, featuring two genuine memory modules alongside two filler modules for even greater visual appeal.
While V-Color markets the 1+1 value packs for AMD platforms, the company should specifically highlight AMD's Ryzen chips with 3D V-Cache, such as the Ryzen 7 9850XD or the Ryzen 7 9800X3D. AMD's X3D chip’s massive L3 cache helps offset the typical drawbacks of running single-channel memory or operating at lower data rates, such as the baseline DDR5-4800. It’s important to emphasize that this is only partial mitigation, as there is still a measurable performance loss relative to an optimized dual-channel configuration. You'll see an even bigger performance regression on vanilla Ryzen 9000 chips that don't have the luxury of the 3D V-Cache.
Naturally, the performance difference will vary depending on the specific application or game, as some workloads and titles are much more sensitive to memory than others. For users aiming for peak performance, a dual-channel memory configuration remains the gold standard. However, with memory prices currently inflated, it’s easy to see the appeal of cost-effective options like V-Color’s 1+1 memory kits.
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V-Color hasn't shared the pricing or availability for the new 1+1 value packs. The company confirmed only that distribution is through selected global partners, such as Newegg.
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Zhiye Liu is a news editor, memory reviewer, and SSD tester at Tom’s Hardware. Although he loves everything that’s hardware, he has a soft spot for CPUs, GPUs, and RAM.
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