How To Choose Ram Update 04 / 2024

Updated at: 30-03-2023 - By: Leo Hall

If you want to select the best RAM for your PC build, this is the simplest and most useful guide you’ll find anywhere. There’s nothing else you’d ever want or need to buy.

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When it comes to a computer’s overall performance, the RAM is third most important after the central processing unit and graphics processing unit.

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RAM modules and kits, like CPUs and GPUs, have a plethora of technical terms and features that the average gamer may not understand.

So, How does one go about picking out RAM? After doing some reading, constructing or upgrading a computer is as easy as assembling a Lego model.

Please refer to this RAM buying guide for assistance.

This is the Table of Contents.Show

What Is RAM?

Among its many meanings, RAM stands for a storage medium that allows for random access and describes a type of short-term storage employed by computers. RAM is constantly being overwritten and refreshed because its sole purpose is to provide a CPU with fast access to data without permanently storing it.

Still, it’s a big deal faster than the use of a permanent storage solution. However, the main drawback is that it can only temporarily store data while it is powered, which rules out any use as long-term storage.

When using a computer, why is it crucial to have a large amount of RAM?

How To Choose RAM [Ultimate Guide] - YouTube

We know it’s used to keep track of data that the central processing unit (CPU) or graphics processing unit (GPU) frequently accesses. Since this is the case, it is essential for effective multi-tasking, such as maintaining a large number of simultaneously open programs. To put it simply, it stores all the game’s assets in a way that allows for rapid access during play.

Laptop and Desktop RAM

RAM for laptops and desktops are physically distinct due to their respective sizes and pinouts on the motherboard connectors.

Typically, laptops are able to in common parlance SO-DIMM While desktop computers use SO-DIMMs (Small Outline Dual In-Line Memory Module), DIMM RAM (Dual In-Line Memory Module) module UDIMM. SO-DIMM is, as the name implies, a reduced-size form of the more common DIMM.

SO-DIMM is about half the size of DIMM, measuring 2.74 inches in length as opposed to the standard DIMM length of 514 inches, to accommodate the limited space of laptop computers. There are 260 pins on an SO-DIMM and 288 on a DIMM.

It goes without saying that you should take care not to purchase the wrong type of RAM because laptops cannot fit DIMM memory and desktops cannot fit SO-DIMM memory. Fortunately, you can tell the difference between the two right away.

Choosing The Right Type of DDR

These days’ RAM isDDR SDRAMDDR, DDR2, DDR3, and DDR4 are the four iterations of computer memory used in the past two decades.

The fourth-generation processor is used in nearly all new machines. DDR4 by which widespread use can be assumed to have occurred by 2016 at the latest. While DDR3 memory and motherboards that support it are still widely available, the technology is rapidly becoming outdated.

Keeping the technical details at bay, suffice it to say that DDR4 is a vast improvement over its forerunner in terms of speed and nearly every other metric.

Something to keep in mind is that DDR4 isn’t compatible with older motherboards and CPUs, and vice versa for DDR3. Therefore, In other words, you can’t use DDR4 with a motherboard that only supports DDR3, and you can’t use DDR3 with a DDR4-compatible board..

Motherboard Form Factor and Slot Count

Determining regardless of whether you have a DDR4 or DDR3 motherboard, is easily understood: look forIndicators of the Systemin addition to the subOverview of the System,The motherboard model can be determined by looking at theMethodology Model field. Then, simply locate that model on the producer’s site and review the spec sheet for further details.

The following is the capacity of Random Access Memory Slots which can be seen clearly from the motherboard or the official website. Slot availability can change depending on the motherboard’s physical layout.

In contrast to the four supported by ATX and Micro ATX motherboards, two are all that Mini ITX boards can handle. Additionally, two-slot models are a real possibility. In addition, some EATX motherboards feature as many as eight RAM slots, but such a large amount of memory is not required for gaming rigs.

However, availability of actual slots isn’t everything. The maximum amount of Random Access Memory that a given motherboard can accommodate, and you can find this information out with the aid of a specs sheet as well.

You shouldn’t have to worry about this if you’re putting together a gaming PC, as it’s unusual to come across a modern motherboard model that doesn’t support 32 GB of RAM.

CPU and OS Limits

RAM and central processing units both have their limits. Modern 64-bit CPUs, such as the latest 9th generation Intel Core and the 3rd generation AMD Ryzen, typically support up to 64 GB or 128 GB of RAM, so this limit won’t be an issue even with motherboards.

If your computer has a 64-bit processor, you can safely ignore the RAM restrictions set by the processor and the operating system as 16 GB of RAM is generally sufficient for gaming PCs. However, if you’re working with an older CPU, double-checking is always a good idea.

Clock Speed

The clock speed of a RAM module, measured in megahertz (MHz), is equivalent to the clock speed of a central processing unit (CPU) or graphics processing unit (GPU) and thus directly correlates to performance. Higher clock speeds are preferable in every scenario, but In video games, storage space and loading times are secondary to capacity.

There is some truth to the idea that faster RAM with a fancier heat spreader will provide better performance, but the difference is negligible at best (a couple of frames), so it’s not worth spending the extra money on.

Because, at the end of the day, DDR4 is DDR4, and For gaming purposes, the difference between RAM speeds of 3200 MHz and 2400 MHz is negligible..

Bandwidth – Single Channel vs Dual-Channel vs Quad-Channel

Dual-channel RAMhas been around for some time, and its main draw is increased data transfer speeds. To be more specific, there is a limit to how much information can be sent between a central processing unit and a single piece of random access memory. As a result, multi-channel configurations like dual- and quad-channel setups are introduced to avoid bottlenecking.

To put it simply, dual-channel configurations employ two RAM sticks, while quad-channel configurations employ four. There are more modules, so this can improve Increase the data transfer rate and capacity.

When it comes to video games, however, all that extra bandwidth is largely irrelevant. The majority of servers and workstations require multi-channel RAM using a program that requires a lot of memory to run and moves around a lot of data.

While the performance gains from using dual or even quad channel RAM for gaming may be negligible, there are still advantages to using more than one RAM module.

The initial issue is the cost In most cases, purchasing a number of smaller modules is more cost-effective than purchasing one larger module. If you needed 16 GB of RAM for your PC build, but didn’t want to spend quite as much, you could save money by purchasing a 2×8 GB or 4×4 GB kit instead of a single 16 GB module.

Kits are not always more cost effective than purchasing components singly because of fluctuations in supply and demand.

To add to that, RAM sticks are more easily and inexpensively replaced if there are at least two or four of them. There is no denying that RAM modules with less storage space available are less expensive. Also, if you have a 2 GB kit and one of the modules fails, you can continue using the computer with 8 GB of RAM until you can get the replacement module.

In contrast, if your computer only had a single 16 GB RAM stick and that one failed, you would be without a working computer for quite some time.

Timings and Latency

CAS/CL represents latency, or the time it takes for the processor to access the data after issuing a read command. Latency in synchronous DRAM, such as DDR4, is expressed in clock cycles rather than nanoseconds.

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But without getting into the weeds here, suffice it to say that For the average gamer, latency isn’t a big deal similar to CPU speeds and data transfer rates Spending more money on reducing latency for gaming barely makes a difference in terms of performance, so capacity should still take precedence.

RAM Capacity

As we have mentioned before, capacity is the most crucial aspect of gaming, and right now, 16 GB represents the ideal sum In 2022, 32 GB of RAM or more will be overkill for a gaming PC, while 8 GB will likely be insufficient.

You could start with 8 GB and add more later, or you could go as high as 32 GB if you want a more future-proof setup and plan to use RAM-intensive programs.

How to Choose RAM: 4 Things to Consider Before Buying

However, the graphics processing unit (GPU) and central processing unit (CPU) are more important components of a gaming PC; don’t skimp on those for the sake of more RAM, even if that RAM is being purchased solely for the sake of future-proofing. If you ever find that 16 GB of RAM is insufficient for your needs, as was mentioned above, you can simply install more memory into your computer.

And yet, You should prioritize upgrading your CPU or GPU over your RAM because these components are more difficult to upgrade..

The 10 Best RAM of 2022

Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro

Best Buy

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Likes and Preferences

Deft execution
stunning RGB illumination
The ability to overclock

Consequences We Do Not Enjoy

May be prohibitively expensive for some.

Increasing your system’s random access memory (RAM) is a great way to speed up your computer, especially for multitasking and powering more demanding games. To put it simply, Corsair makes the best RAM kits on the market. When compared to other RAM options, the Vengeance RGB Pro DDR4 SDRAM offers exceptional value. This 16GB kit is just one of many possible configurations and capacities; it consists of two 8GB modules running at 3200MHz and having a total of 16GB. a low latency in communicating with the CAS having a confidence level (CL) of 16 means it’s suitable for most users. With an aluminum heat spreader, this RAM can be overclocked to run even faster.

Although the Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro’s primary functions are performance and cost-effectiveness, it will also put on a bit of a show. This RAM comes in two colors—black and white—and both have RGB lighting that can be adjusted to a wide variety of colors and flash patterns. Even better, Corsair’s iCue software will synchronize the effects across all of your compatible components.

Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB

Amazon

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Our Favorites

Profoundly impressive work
What stunning illumination
Solid construction

Disliked Features

Expensive
Way beyond what the typical user requires

If your system is truly high-end and requires the absolute best parts, you may want to invest in some state-of-the-art equipment. The Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB is an excellent choice of RAM. We’ve already established that Corsair is a formidable name in this market, and if you’re willing to spend a pretty penny, the Dominator Platinum RGB will take your rig to new heights.

Kits of this high-performance, cutting-edge DDR4 RAM are available in capacities of 8GB and 16GB, with overclocking potential up to 4800MHz. Thus, response times to commands issued to the memory can be kept to a minimum, allowing for low latency and tightening timings. Also, it looks fantastic, with 12 of Corsair’s brilliant Capellix LED lights spanning the top and all being individually programmable via the iCue lighting software. Module-specific data such as current velocity and temperature can also be retrieved in real time.

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G.Skill Trident Z RGB

Amazon

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Favorites of Ours

Brilliant RGB effects
Is open to the use of alternative lighting programs
Maintains composure under duress

Why We Dislike It

It’s a little bit costly

The G.Skill Trident Z RGB has the glitz to match your aspirations if the visual appeal of your gaming PC is as important to you as its performance. By default, the exposed light bar along the top emits a full-spectrum rainbow wave, but you can program this RAM to show any color scheme or animation effect you like. If you have other Asus devices that support RGB lighting, you don’t even have to use G.Skill’s proprietary software; you can use something like Asus Aura instead.

The dark, brushed aluminum heat spreader contrasts nicely with the bright LED light show; its fin design is optimized for improved heat transfer and allows the RAM to reach skyrocketing speeds without overheating. The stunning aesthetic is in no way compromised despite the inclusion of such performance-oriented design elements. Wow, talk about the perfect union of form and function!

Corsair Vengeance LPX

Amazon

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Our Favorites

Low-profile
Use without overheating
Affordable

Criticisms We Have

Doe[s] not have any fancy RGB lighting

Power users can take advantage of their equipment to the fullest with the help of the Corsair Vengeance LPX, a popular DDR4 RAM option due to its overclocking benefits. Its smaller footprint also contributes to its widespread acceptance. Some CPU coolers won’t fit in your rig if you have regular-sized RAM modules installed underneath, so low-profile options like these can help reduce some of the bulk and generate clearance for a cooler.

The efficient aluminum heat spreaders in a variety of colors help keep these RAM modules cool to the touch. These Corsair Vengeance LPX RAM modules are reasonably priced and come with the added benefit of a low-profile design. That’s crucial if you need to add a lot of RAM but don’t have a lot of free DIMM slots on your motherboard.

Patriot Viper Elite

Amazon

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Various Things That Appeal to Us

To put it another way, it’s cheap
Crafted with a one-of-a-kind style
Simple to overclock

Disliked Features

Slow timekeeping
Lack of RGB illumination

In spite of its high cost, the Patriot Viper Elite DDR4 RAM has proven itself to be both a reliable and fast piece of hardware. The most cost-effective options are those with a lower maximum capacity, like 8 GB of RAM, but even the larger Viper Elite memory kits are reasonably priced.

You can’t boost the speed past 2800MHz, but you can use Intel XMP profiles or other methods to overclock it to 3000MHz or higher. When compared to other options at this price point, that’s fairly fast and sufficient for most users. In addition to being reasonably priced, Patriot products come with a limited lifetime warranty, removing any concerns about subpar construction.

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Kingston HyperX Fury

Amazon

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Our Favorites

Auto-clocking
Fast DDR3 memory
Efficient use of energy

Disliked Features

memory that is slower than DDR4
Lack of RGB illumination

There is no reason not to use DDR4 memory if you can, as it offers significantly faster speeds. If your motherboard only supports DDR3 RAM, however, you’ll be stuck with that configuration unless you buy a whole new computer. The HyperX Fury from Kingston offers excellent DDR3 performance, which may persuade you to put off the more extensive upgrade.

If your PC can handle it, the HyperX Fury RAM from Kingdom comes in 16GB kits (that’s 8GB x 2) and will overclock to 1866MHz without any user intervention. As an added bonus, the 1.35-volt power requirement is more efficient than the 1.5-volt DDR3 standard. Not particularly innovative in appearance, but at least you can match its color to the rest of your PC’s components with a choice of white, black, blue, or red.

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HyperX Predator DDR4 RGB

Amazon

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Our Favorites

Consistently high overclocked velocity
Sync with infrared lights
Good buy

Disliked Features

There is some variety in the quality of the LEDs.

Similarly, the Kingdom’s HyperX Predator RGB 3200MHz DDR4 RAM is a fantastic all-around option because it combines top-notch performance and stunning RGB lighting effects. Specifically, HyperX’s RAM has been praised for excellent overclocking performance, allowing you to make the most of your modules and potentially achieve new heights in memory speeds.

The HyperX Predator RGB RAM also has a distinctive selling point in that it uses infrared technology to synchronize the lighting effects across modules, thus eliminating the need for additional cables. Some reviews from customers have raised concerns about possible problems with quality control, and Infrared Emitting Diode Lights however, so keep that in mind once you’re up and running.

We Appreciate

Ideal for Apple computers and nearly all laptops
Simple to set up

We Dislike

Not at your best
It’s not cheap.

Even though Macs and laptops aren’t typically considered “gaming beasts,” any computer can benefit from having more RAM installed, regardless of its intended purpose. Furthermore, the Corsair Vengeance Memory Kit is a great purchase for any laptop or Mac computer.

Due to their diminutive size compared to standard RAM kits, these slim SODIMM modules are fantastic for ultraportable computers and notebooks. These small chips work great in MacBooks and Mac desktops, and are available in capacities up to 64GB (2x 32GB). They will even overclock themselves according to the parameters you set. If you want to get a kit, just make sure it works with your motherboard.

What to Look for in RAM

Speed-You can certainly delve deeper into the details, but larger numbers still generally yield improved performance. For instance, while 8GB RAM may be adequate for basic computing tasks, 16GB RAM should have you sailing smoothly through multitasking and demanding computing needs. If more RAM can be installed, do so. The rate at which time passes is also significant. Better performance from a smaller amount of RAM is preferable to a larger amount of subpar RAM.

Harmony –The newer DDR4 RAM is much faster than the older DDR3 RAM, but your motherboard might not be able to handle it. Make sure the RAM you want to buy is compatible with your computer before you make the purchase.

Size –Measurements are being made here in terms of actual body dimensions. Standard-sized RAM may not leave enough room for a sizable CPU cooler, for example, if you’re trying to pack your PC tower with high-end gaming components. Consider using low-profile RAM in this situation, which can give you some breathing room when trying to fit it in with other parts. However, a different type of RAM called a SODIMM is used in laptops and Macs.

How To Choose RAM In 2023 [Simple Guide] - GamingScan

Closing Thoughts

Finally, it’s worth noting that while it’s technically possible to switch between models, doing so is not advised. There is always the risk of unexpected crashes, bugs, and instability when mixing RAM modules from different manufacturers.

Plus, if you’re using modules with varying clock speeds, you’ll be limited to the lowest-performing module’s speed.

This brings us to a conclusion: Don’t mix and match different models if you end up upgrading your RAM in the future; instead, prioritize capacity over speed and latency, choose kits over individual high-capacity modules, leave expansion room if necessary/possible, and so on..

And while we’re on the subject of enhancements, if you’re in the market for RAM and hoping to find something you like, you might want to peruse our selection of the best RAM for gaming in 2022.

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