RAM Buying Guide: How To Pick The Right RAM For You?

Choosing the correct RAM and configuration is essential when constructing or updating a computer. A lot of people who don’t know much about computer terminology wind up having a system where the amount of RAM is the limiting factor in how fast it can run. So, to help you out, we have put up this exhaustive buying guide for RAM. It covers all the bases and more.

Memory Address Module (RAM)?

First things first: RAM provides lightning-fast data transfers by serving as the operating system’s temporary storage hub. Because of this, it is perfect for all of the programs, procedures, and applications that are in use right now.

Think of your personal computer like a desk with drawers and cabinets. Information that is regularly accessible is kept on the desk beside the processor for easy retrieval, while permanent data is stored in the cabinets. The desk here stands in for random access memory (RAM), which the CPU uses to temporarily store data.

Memory Address Modules

A picture illustrating how DIM and SO-DIMM differ Truthful Tech: For larger computers, RAM is available in DIMM (Dual In-Line Memory Module) form, whereas smaller devices, such as laptops and compact PCs, use SO-DIMM (Small Outline DIMM) form. The fact that certain form elements share a name doesn’t mean they’re interchangeable. Because of this, you can’t use a DIMM stick in a SO-DIMM slot or put it in the other way around.

Varieties of form components

Starting with various form factors is a good place to start since RAM speed is directly related to system performance. Maybe you’re familiar with the acronyms DDR and DDR4, but do you know what they mean? Simply said,

Random Access Memory (RAM) is based on Double Data Rate (DDR) technology, which means that there are two transfers every clock cycle. Memory modules with ever higher data rates (DDR, DDR2, DDR3, etc.) appeared as technology advanced. At the moment, you may use either DDR4 or DDR5.

Choosing between DDR4 and DDR5? How are they different?

• Visual representation of the DDR4 and DDR5 memory stick differences
• Picture acquired from Adata
• The most crucial choice is probably between DDR4 and DDR5.
• As its name implies, DDR5 provides faster performance as a result of rearranging its architecture.
• In addition, the burst length is doubled from 8 to 16 bytes in DDR5 DIMMs, thanks to the two separate 32-bit channels, as opposed to DDR4’s one 64-bit channel.
• Memory performance is greatly enhanced as a consequence of this essential modification.

In addition, DDR5 is more power efficient than DDR4 because to its lower operating voltage of 1.1V rather than 1.2V. This is an important consideration when using a computer for an extended period of time. Keep in mind that real working voltages could differ from brand to brand.

FeaturesDedicated DDR4 MemoryDirect Memory Resistor 5

Memory Speed Four thousand megahertz to six thousand megahert
Body Mass IndexMassive 64 GB DIMMs – 16 GB SDPSupporting 64Gb SDP and 256GB DIMMs
Voltage1.5V to 1.2V}1.1V
An Analysis of DDR4 and DDR5 Memory

Do you have a preference?

The benefits of DDR5 make it seem like the better option, but ultimately, it comes down to your PC’s needs. Despite its age, DDR4 continues to have extensive support, including in Intel’s most recent 14th Gen CPUs as well as those from 2014. On the other hand, DDR5 is only compatible with Intel’s 12th and 13th generation of central processing units (CPUs), and the only desktop CPU that supports it is the AMD Ryzen 7000. Therefore, DDR5 is no longer an option; faster DDR4 RAM is the way to go if your CPU is a little older.

Storage space?

Next, you must decide on the capacity of the RAM, which is an important factor to consider based on your workflow. There are several RAM capacities, such as:

• 8 GB: Enough for a beginner’s PC, particularly if you won’t be playing AAA games.
• With 16 GB, you can play all your favorite games and multitask like a boss.
• 32 GB or more: Great for power users and avid gamers who run resource-intensive games and other resource-intensive programs.
• Which RAM speed is best for you?
• Verify the highest RAM speed that your motherboard can handle before continuing with the explanation. This data is available in third-party programs like CPU-Z or in the motherboard documentation.

Opting for DDR4 requires RAM sticks with speeds higher than 3,000 MHz. This will guarantee that your machine is capable of efficiently handling both games and heavy tasks.

Visual representation of a speed test comparing several DDR4 and DDR5 RAM modules

However, DDR5 supports rates between 4800 MHz and 6400 MHz. Users shouldn’t shell out more cash for a faster stick since the two aren’t proportionate in terms of performance. Therefore, the most cost-effective option is the 4800 MHz, the lowest common DDR5 RAM speed. Keep in mind that DDR5 is pricier than DDR4 by definition.

Do not ever rely on just one channel

Pictured above is a quad-channel RAM setup (Cross-brand: Corsair).
Each motherboard typically has two or four RAM slots; two sticks of RAM indicate two channels, and one stick of RAM represents one channel. Your budget and intended purpose will determine which one is best.

So, you’ve decided to add 16 GB of RAM. Since buying two 16GB sticks would be more costly, purchasing one would seem like the more frugal option. But with a dual-channel setup, the CPU can access both memory at once, which adds another 20%-25% to the speed.

While dual-channel memory is ideal, it is still not a good idea to mix and match memory sticks—not even from the same brand or model. For steadiness, always use the same sticks.

Ideas suggested

Although it is wise to do your own research, since each motherboard is compatible with a different standard, below are a few of the top RAM sticks available:

• The G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo RGB DDR5-6000 is available.
• The Vengeance DDR5 from Corsair (link)
• Link to TeamGroup’s T-Force Xtreem ARGB DDR4-3600
• Durant Viper Steel DDR4-4400 (available here)
• Links: Patriot Viper Steel RGB DDR4 3600MHz