RAM is one of the most important hardware components in any computer. It works together with the processor on data and information from the installed programs. However, it doesn’t store files permanently, and the big difference between RAM and HDD is that RAM is responsible for reading data only when required.
What is RAM?
RAM is ‘random access memory’. This component is responsible for speed in the overall operation of the system. Without RAM, tasks such as opening programs and editing files would take a long time to complete. In fact, your computer won’t even turn on if you don’t have RAM installed.
In short, the function of RAM is to temporarily store all the information that the computer needs, either for that moment or for the near future. This is one factor that sets it apart from a hard disk, as mentioned. Since the hard disk is designed for long-term storage, it takes longer to make the data that the user wants to access available.
However, the data stored in RAM is erased when you turn off the computer. Basically, RAM works like a workspace, but on a temporary basis. After all the data and information has been handled, it is stored again on the hard disk or SSD.
In a more practical example, when you open a game or a page in your browser, it is the RAM that is working. It can be said that this memory works on a short-term basis, i.e. it can quickly write and rewrite data for quick use. The HDD or SSD, on the other hand, works for long-term storage.
There are three key points to look at if you want to know what RAM is and how it will serve you:
- Capacity: measured in gigabytes (GB), it indicates how many temporary files it can store simultaneously;
- Clock speed or frequency: measured in megahertz (MHz), it indicates the speed at which the RAM works on temporary files;
- DDR: accompanied by a number, indicates the generation of the RAM card. The larger the number, the more modern the part (DDR3, DDR4, DDR5, for example).
How much RAM do you need?
Now that you have a sense of what RAM is, it’s easier for you to understand how much of it you need. In short, the larger the RAM, the more free space you have to deal with files. In other words, if you need to access a lot of HD content at once, you need RAM that is serious enough to handle it all.
- 4GB RAM
This is the most basic option. To give you an idea, simply keeping many tabs open in the browser can slow you down on a 4GB RAM computer. It is possible to play some games and use light programs. This amount is ideal for anyone who does not deal with remotely heavy programs, does not intend to multitask, and wants to save money on this component.
- 8GB RAM
Considered average, 8GB is enough to run games like Forza Horizon 5 or Valorant. With a good processor and a dedicated graphics card, you can play new games relatively smoothly. The same goes for heavier editing programs, which are also usually demanding. However, if you want to open more than one heavy program at the same time, you will probably be slowed down.
- 16GB RAM
For heavy or high quality games and complex video editing or 3D modeling it is recommended to have at least this much. It is enough to run and work with these programs without fear of crashes (at least because of the RAM).
- 32GB RAM
Overall, 32GB is going to be too much for most users, and is suitable for professional gamers and those who do 3D editing more as a hobby than as a profession. The two biggest positives of having 32GB are that you will never have to worry about closing any programs due to lack of RAM and that you won’t have to upgrade it for a long time.
- 64GB RAM
Now, a 64GB RAM memory is definitely meant for the most hardcore users. It’s a spectacular overkill for light games or basic applications, for any task in everyday life. It is intended for professional designers.
RAM types
You just have to memorize quickly: DDR3, DDR4, DDR5. DDR here stands for ‘double data rate’. This means that it does more operations per cycle. The numbers 3, 4, and 5 after DDR indicate the generation of the technology – with each the transfer rate increases; therefore, the higher the number, the better.
The standard today is DDR4 or DDR5. The former is still more common on laptops. Meanwhile, DDR3 isn’t recommended anymore.
What does the RAM speed mean for you?
A relevant question when choosing RAM is: ‘Should I chase after GBs or speed?’ The amount of GBs is the most important thing when it comes to multitasking or opening heavy programs. On the other hand, the clock speed of the memory is important for some games and for the PC to run faster. This RAM speed is responsible for controlling how much data per second the memory will operate.
Habitually, the unit of speed is measured in megahertz (MHz). It is an important factor for anyone looking to get the most out of memory capacity and get more speed and less latency. The RAM clock speed reflects how quickly the data from the CPU is accessed. That’s why the indicator is also so important for games. A 2400MHz RAM, for example, operates much slower than a 3000MHz RAM.
Before buying some really fast RAM, check if that frequency is even supported by your motherboard. If you buy a faster memory, it will operate at the speed the motherboard allows. Also, if you have one 2400MHz RAM stick, and one 3000MHz, they will all run at 2400MHz.
For ordinary users, who use the computer on a daily basis, the speed may not be so important. So if you are looking for a laptop for simple work or studying, you won’t have to worry too much about this factor.
Conclusion
Now you better understand what RAM is and why it is one of the most important components in a computer. Having learned more about its functionality, types, etc., you will make more precise decisions when it comes to repairing your computer or upgrading it.
Nevertheless, your computer may still need the kind of repair that you can’t perform without help from an experienced specialist. In that case, contact the experts from Repairs Bay; you can check their site by clicking on https://repairsbay.com/. The main thing when your device is malfunctioning is not to waste time. Then the repair is more likely to be completed sooner. With professional repair and proper maintenance your computer and all of its components in particular will serve you much longer.