If you want your computer to work and play at its best, it needs more RAM. Learn more about pc ram, including how it works and how to find compatible modules for your system.
RAM is a kind of temporary storage that holds numbers until the CPU needs them. It’s much faster than non-volatile storage like HDDs or SSDs.
What is RAM?
RAM is the short-term memory that helps your computer work. It holds the information that is currently in use so your processor can quickly process it. Without RAM, your computer would bog down trying to find the data it needs. You can check how much RAM your computer has by opening the Task Manager.
Like your own short-term memory, RAM can be wiped clean when you close an app or shut down the computer. This is why you should always save your work to a disk drive or other long-term storage location.
There are many different types of RAM. Older PCs used SRAM (static random access memory) or DRAM (dynamic random access memory). Both have memory cells with a transistor and capacitor requiring constant refreshing. Newer computers use DDR (double data rate synchronous dynamic random-access memory). These chips are often sold as a single card called a module that plugs into slots on the motherboard.
How does RAM work?
RAM is a kind of short-term memory where your computer keeps the data it needs most for immediate access. It processes that information significantly faster than long-term storage such as a hard drive or SSD.
Think of your computer’s desk: You keep everything you use most often within arm’s reach on top of the desk, and put stuff you don’t use or want to save for later in a drawer. RAM is like the top of your computer, and your hard drives are the drawers.
RAM is made up of capacitors that need to be recharged, or “refreshed,” periodically so they remember the bits stored inside them. When the computer’s system clock hits a certain frequency, the capacitors are charged with electricity. Then at each pulse of the system clock, RAM transmits data. Older types of dynamic RAM need to be refreshed every two cycles, while newer types like DDR and DDR4 refresh less frequently, resulting in higher transfer speeds.
How much RAM do I need?
Generally speaking, the amount of RAM your computer needs depends on what you plan to use it for. For basic tasks like web browsing, email, word processing, and video streaming, 4GB to 8GB of RAM should be sufficient. If you plan on gaming, however, you will need more than that. Depending on the game’s graphics quality, resolution, and whether you will be multitasking or using other applications while gaming, a minimum of 16GB of RAM is recommended.
The best way to determine how much RAM your computer has is by looking at the system specifications in Windows or macOS’ About This Computer section. You can also download programs that scan for and display your current system memory. Once you have this information, it’s easy to figure out if your computer can handle more RAM or if you need to add more. The right amount of RAM can make your computer feel significantly faster, even without a powerful processor.
How do I install RAM?
Whether you’re building a computer from the ground up or upgrading your current build, adding RAM is an easy upgrade that usually won’t cost much more than a new CPU and GPU. While it won’t have as big of an impact as those parts, more memory can still improve overall performance by freeing up CPU cycles for other tasks.
To install RAM, first make sure the computer is turned off and unplugged. Before opening the case, consult the manufacturer’s manual or an online guide like this to see if you risk voiding the warranty by working inside the system. Use an anti-static pad or wrist strap to discharge static electricity, and avoid touching any gold pins or components (chips).
Then remove the old RAM by toggling the plastic retention clips on either end of the module. Once the modules are free, open the new RAM and align its notches with the ridges on the slot.