RAM, short for random-access memory, is crucial to your computer’s performance. Without it, applications would lag and your operating system wouldn’t run properly.
When it comes to selecting a new RAM stick, the main things to keep in mind are speed and latency. To help you understand this, you can use tools like CPU-Z and Speccy.
What is RAM?
RAM is a type of memory that offers lightning-fast data storage. It’s similar to how a desk holds items you need within arm’s reach so that you don’t have to keep searching in drawers — but it resets when you shut down your computer.
Every time you play a game, stream a movie, or open a document in your computer, the information that the processor needs to support those applications gets loaded into RAM for quick access. When you close the application and its process disappears in Task Manager, the operating system removes the information from RAM and makes it available for other processes again.
The more RAM your computer has, the quicker your programs will run and the more demanding games you can play without experiencing lag or freezing. However, not all RAM is created equal and the type of RAM you buy can affect both speed and price. That’s why it’s important to find a RAM that is compatible with your computer before making a purchase.
How much RAM do I need?
If you’re a light gamer or a typical office worker, your computer probably doesn’t need much RAM. 4GB can get you by for most daily computing tasks, including internet browsing, MS Office applications, and light photo editing.
But if you’re a heavy gamer, you need more to avoid slowdowns and glitching mid-game. In general, you’ll want 8GB or more of RAM to enjoy smooth graphics and high framerates.
The amount of RAM you need also depends on your computing goals and the type of software you use. Programmers may want 32GB or more to make sure their programs have enough memory to run smoothly without crashing.
How do I know if I need to upgrade my RAM?
Computer RAM is one of the most crucial parts of desktop, laptop and MAC computers. It helps the computer shuffle data between the hard disk and processor, so programs run smoothly and quickly.
You can use Windows Task Manager (Ctrl + Alt + Del or Search on the desktop) to check how much of your system is being used up by various applications and services. If it’s above 60%, you should consider installing more RAM to prevent lag or slowdowns.
When buying more RAM, make sure it matches the speed of your existing modules and that the module’s physical dimensions fit your motherboard. It’s also important that you choose a reliable retailer with good warranties and return policies. Once you have installed your new RAM, reboot the machine and check that the total amount of RAM shown in Task Manager or in Control Panel matches the amount you added. This indicates the upgrade was successful.
How do I know if my RAM is compatible with my computer?
Different motherboards use different types of RAM, and the speed of your RAM affects how well applications and games function. You can find out which kind of RAM your motherboard supports by looking at the sockets, using a system-checking tool or checking the motherboard’s specifications on its website.
You can also identify what type of RAM you have by examining the module itself; most consumer RAM modules have a label indicating what they are, or you can look up the part number in software such as CPU-Z or Speccy. This will provide you with the manufacturer and model information that you can use to search for RAM compatible with your specific processor or motherboard.
It’s important to avoid mixing RAM brands, frequencies, latencies, or capacities; doing so will reduce your computer’s performance overall. Check out our article on the dangers of mixing RAM to learn more. In addition, you can use your motherboard manufacturer’s QVL lists, which list the types of RAM that have been tested and approved by that manufacturer for the specific motherboard.