Most PCs let users install RAM up to a certain capacity. Having more RAM cuts down on the number of times the processor reads data from the hard drive, which takes much longer than reading it from memory.
The more RAM a computer has, the faster it will run. If your computer is struggling to open files, you may need more RAM.
What is RAM?
RAM acts like your own short-term memory, holding immediate data as you work with it. The more RAM you have, the less your computer has to retrieve information from slower storage devices (like a hard drive), making it run faster.
Modern computers ship with 2-4 GB of RAM, which works well for basic tasks and web browsing. For demanding applications, such as Photoshop or video editing, you’ll need more than that.
Just like your processor has a speed limit, so does your RAM. When your PC runs out of RAM, its hard drive must pick up the slack, slowing down performance. If this happens frequently, you may want to close some tabs in your browser or stop streaming TV shows. You can also upgrade the type of RAM you have by purchasing faster speeds, which are measured in megahertz (MHz). The most popular kind of desktop RAM is DDR4, which replaced DDR3 and before that DDR2. Higher-speed sticks require a compatible motherboard.
How much RAM do I need?
For most people, the amount of RAM that comes with their PC is plenty. But if you do a lot of video editing or high-end gaming, you may want to upgrade your system to get better performance.
The quickest way to find out how much RAM your computer has is to open the Windows Task Manager. It’s in the menu bar (Ctrl+Shift+Esc on Mac) and displays your current usage and total capacity.
Click Memory and it will display the current RAM installed in your PC, along with its rated speed and the number of slots used. This will help you determine how much more RAM you need to buy.
Make sure the RAM you purchase is compatible with your motherboard. It’s also best to buy RAM in identically sized pairs. For example, if your PC has two 4 GB DIMMs and you need 12 GB, you should purchase two more 8 GB sticks to match the original configuration.
What is the difference between DDR4 and DDR3?
The DDR3 RAM standard was released in 2007, and it’s slowly dying out due to the rise of DDR4. DDR4 is faster, more efficient, and compatible with the latest technologies. It’s also not backward compatible with DDR3. The DDR4 RAM has different connectors, so you cannot use DDR3 memory in a motherboard that supports only DDR4.
Another difference between the two is that DDR4 requires a lower voltage than DDR3. This is good for those who are looking to save on power consumption. However, it may be challenging for hardcore gamers who like to push the limits of their hardware to get the most performance out of it. DDR4 is also more expensive than DDR3. But it’s worth the extra investment if you’re planning to build a PC that will be used in the future.
Which is the best RAM for gaming?
RAM is an important component that can boost your gaming experience, but the best one for you depends on your budget and use case. Choosing the right RAM involves understanding capacity, speed, and latency to find the combination that works for you. Make sure to also check the motherboard and CPU specifications for RAM compatibility and a smooth integration.
Ideally, you should prioritize dual-channel RAM if possible. This will help to maximize performance as it provides the fastest access to your RAM. It’s worth noting that the impact of faster RAM will vary from game to game, so you may not see a significant difference in your gameplay.
If you want to add a little flair to your system, look for RAM that includes RGB lighting. Typically, this will be included on the heat sink, which is a small strip of metal that covers the memory chip. The heat sink can be used to cool the RAM and can help to keep it running at stable speeds.