RAM stores data that a CPU might need in the near future. It is unlike the long term storage of a hard disc drive or SSD which retains information even when the system is shut down.
Increasing RAM capacity enables more applications to run at once and higher resolutions and frame rates in games. Choosing the correct type of memory is dependent on how demanding you are on your computer and your budget.
How RAM Works
RAM is the short-term storage on your computer for files you’re actively working with, as well as other small bits of data used by different parts of your system. When your computer needs to work with something, it first copies it from long-term storage (such as your hard drive or SSD) into RAM where it can access it instantly. From there, it’s moved into the faster L3, L2 and L1 caches inside your CPU to actually do its work.
Non-volatile memory like the kind stored on HDDs and SSDs doesn’t lose its data when power is cut, but RAM must constantly refresh the electrical charges on each memory cell or risk losing its data. That’s why it works so fast, compared to slow-access storage like a HDD or SSD.
Types of RAM
When you buy RAM, it’s important to make sure the type is compatible with your motherboard and CPU. The wrong kind of RAM can underperform or even damage your system.
There are several different kinds of RAM, including SRAM (static random access memory), DRAM (dynamic random access memory), and RDRAM (registered dynamic random access memory). Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
For example, SRAM is faster than DRAM, but it requires more power to operate. RDRAM has an on-chip cache to speed up the RAM’s data retrieval. And ECC RAM adds an extra memory chip that can correct errors, which is useful in server environments but less necessary for consumer PCs. RAM is also available in different physical form factors, such as DIMMs and SO-DIMMs, which are smaller modules that are used for laptops and some mini PCs. The other deciding factor when buying RAM is its capacity, which is measured in gigabytes. Generally, higher capacities allow for more applications and games to be run simultaneously.
How Much RAM Do I Need?
If you’re just looking to browse the internet, stream video and play light games, 4GB of RAM will be enough. However, if you want to perform professional-level photo/video editing or high-end gaming, then you’ll need more than 8GB of RAM.
To find out if your computer has enough RAM, you can use Windows Task Manager or macOS Activity Monitor to view how much of the memory is being used. If there’s still a lot of free space, you’re good to go; if not, it may be time to consider an upgrade.
Having more RAM can reduce the constant back and forth of data swaps between your processor and SSD or HDD, making it quicker to respond to commands. However, it won’t make your CPU faster or make your games run any better. That’s what a dedicated graphics card is for!
How Much RAM Should I Buy?
The amount of RAM you need depends on the kinds of tasks you plan to use your computer for. Basic Word documents and Solitaire don’t require much, but 16GB is ideal for moderate multitasking and most modern games. For professional-level software like Adobe Photoshop and video editing, you’ll want at least 32GB of RAM.
If you’re a gamer, getting enough memory can make the difference between smooth frame rates and laggy gameplay. This is because most gaming apps and games need quick access to temporary data, which is loaded into RAM as opposed to a SSD or HDD, where it’s stored permanently. Having plenty of RAM reduces the constant swapping back and forth between RAM and storage, which results in faster performance and less lag. You’ll also want to ensure that your RAM is compatible with your motherboard and processor type. The big RAM manufacturers—Crucial, Kingston, Corsair—all have product finders on their websites that will show you which types of RAM work with your system.