RAM is an essential component of your computer that helps your CPU store information and data temporarily. If you install the wrong RAM, it might affect your computer’s performance by creating incompatibility issues.
So, it is very important to choose the right one for your device. Whether you are selecting RAM for upgrading or replacing it, or for building a new PC, you need to be aware of the following factors.
What To Consider Before Purchasing a RAM
1. Purpose
First, understand the purpose of purchasing RAM. You will find different types of RAM in the market that serves varieties of purposes. So, you need to know the reason for buying a new one.
The reason might be replacing or upgrading the old one, adding an extra one, or having your PC newly built. Find out how much extra RAM your device can take once you need to update it.
Remember that not all devices have removable RAM, which makes upgrading RAM a difficult procedure that may require assistance from the service centres. So, seek professional help when needed.
2. Device Type
While picking RAM, make sure you are buying the one appropriate for your device. It is not wise to insert Desktop RAM into your Laptop, and vice versa. Laptop RAMs and Desktop RAMS come in different sizes, and you might notice a little difference in performance too.
There is a physical difference too between Laptop RAM and Desktop RAM. Purchase the right RAM Stick to keep your device working as it needs to be, to avoid any problem later.
3. DDR
You will find DDR SDRAM as the latest type of RAM in the market. Besides, there are other types to choose from including DDR1, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4, and DDR5 that were launched respectively in the years 2000, 2003, 2007, 2014, and 2020.
As we all know, the latest generation RAM is generally the better one as well as more expensive. So, make sure you know everything about the cost and using compatibility before buying one.
4. Compatibility
When you are purchasing a new PC, ensure that the CPU can support the new-gen RAM. DDR4 RAM has been compatible with all Intel and AMD CPUs developed up to this point.
So, if you plan to buy DDR5 RAM, you need to wait for AMD’s 5000 series CPU, or Intel’s 12th Generation CPUs. You may also require a suitable motherboard. It is not possible to insert DDR4 RAM into a slot of DDR3 RAM.
You need to buy the one as per the CPU and motherboard specifications as the RAM carries a notch that needs to sit properly into the motherboard RAM slot.
However, to replace your existing RAM, you must purchase the same generation RAM. And, if you are willing to add another RAM stick to your existing one, make sure to get the same one.
As DDR4 RAMs get old in a few years, you need to go for DDR5 if you are thinking of building a future-proof PC. However, if you’re buying a PC right now, DDR4 might be a better option because DDR5 CPUs aren’t yet available.
If you do not waste your money, picking a DDR4 will be the right choice to replace the existing one, as you might not have any other option.
5. Frequency
The Clock Speed of RAM is generally measured in MegaHertz (MHz). It is the data transferring speed of the RAM. It may make a minor difference in the performance of your device.
For instance, DDR4 4 GB RAM provides different versions in it, showing numbers like 2400 MHz, 3100 MHz, etc. It indicates the clock speed of your RAM. The higher the clock speed, the faster the data transfers. But, it will be more costly.
DDR1 and DDR2 respectively had a maximum speed of 400 MHz and 533 MHz. Whereas DDR3 RAM had 800 for its higher-end model. The best ones of DDR3 RAM mostly stick with a speed between 1066 and 1600 MHz.
You will find the Current Generation DDR4 RAMS in various models as well. For instance 2666, 2400, 3000, 3600, 3200, and 3733 MHz. The upcoming Next Gen DDR5 RAMs will offer you a starting speed of 3200 MHz.
However, make sure to check the motherboard specifications before purchasing one, as some motherboards may only support 3000 MHz DDR4 RAM. So, purchasing a 3600 MHZ DDR4 RAM will not make any difference.
6. Memory Size
You will find RAM in different sizes, such as 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB, and 64 GB. Make sure to buy according to your purpose.
These days, even when you are using a computer for basic activities such as browsing the web, or watching movies, you might require at least a RAM of 4 GB, as every day, the applications are upgrading and demanding more resources.
7. Channel Type
When you need a Memory of 16 GB, you might become confused about whether to buy four-4 GB RAM Sticks, two-8 GB RAM Sticks or a solo 16GB RAM Stick. You need to understand how the multichannel works to solve this mystery.
The data transfer will function utilising a single slot if you insert one 16 GB Stick. Whereas, getting two 8 GB RAM Sticks can make the data transfer through two channels and the latter will be faster. To get the most efficiency, understand the additional factors and make the right decision.
To Conclude
Decide what to buy only after looking into the facts that are mentioned above. Besides, make sure to research the latency of the RAM you are buying. Pick a branded RAM to get better performance and long term use. Understand what you need and then pick the right one for you.
Best of luck!
