DDR3 is the future of desktop PC memory in the near term, no question about it. Nonetheless, the transition to the next level of memory technology will be a gradual one, much like we saw when we advanced from DDR to DDR2. With higher latencies and higher price tags, the argument for migrating to DDR3 in its current state isn't a strong one, but as the technology matures, that argument will become increasingly strong as the benefits and costs of DDR3 become more tangilble and affordable.
One issue facing system builders today is how to approach a new build if they want to future-proof it as much as possible. Does one go with a DDR3 board and pay a premium for minimal performance gains, but ensure that the memory can be upgraded in the future? Or do you stick with the proven DDR2 memory, which will surely be around for a while, and tackle the DDR3 issue at a later date? MSI hopes to make that decision process a little easier by offering the best of both worlds in a single motherboard.Today, we're evaluating the MSI P35 Platinum Combo which is virtually identical to the original P35 Platinum, with the added capability of supporting both DDR2 and DDR3 memory. In the pages ahead, we will revisit the board's main features, then focus on performance with both DDR2 and DDR3 memory installed. With the ability to support current and future memory technology, MSI aims to offer a flexible motherboard solution for current system builders, making memory considerations simple.