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Buying A Computer RAM: The Buyer-Friendly Guide!
ByBilal Khan- Read Time18 mins
The foundation of a computer is laid upon several types of hardware that make it the best available option for digitalization. From the heat-generating CPU to the space-craving hard drive, every major hardware contributes to the operational processes of a computer. This includes a list of other hardware with RAM being on the top.
Considered one of the most vital organs of a Computer, RAM is something you wouldn’t want to make any compromise on. And perhaps that’s the one and the only reason you are here reading these words. Clueless on what to look for when buying RAM? Let me tell you this, you are not alone.
More and more PC enthusiasts are trying to figure out the ingredients of a perfect RAM. Whether a newbie or an expert, you can’t buy the right RAM as long as you are unaware of the critical factors determining its worth. Want to them know all? You better follow this guide!
It would give you all the information you need to know to buy RAM. It is a to-the-point guide which means no irrelevant stuff but only solutions. Jump to the following question to take a start and go through the end to know it all.
Top Pick
Kingston Technology Fury Renegade RGB DDR5
Why Do You Need A RAM?
Called primary memory, RAM is an integral part of a computer system. Since RAM is volatile, It serves the CPU as an instant source of data collection. What the RAM does is that it stores the potentially critical data of any application or program in its storage tanks and allows the CPU to access them.
Whenever the CPU requires instant data access, it scans these storage tanks and gets the data quickly. This saves a lot of time for the CPU and allows it to perform tasks in no time. Exclude the RAM from a computer and it would stop working immediately.
Relate it to your body, dismantle the memory department of your brain and you will be dead. That’s how important RAM is in the overall structure of a computer system.
How To Buy A RAM
Coming to the main point folks, let’s talk about the factors that you are supposed to keep in your mind before you buy RAM. As you go through each factor, you will get close to learning the art of buying the right RAM for your computer. Time to reveal the secret!
Memory Speed
Whether it’s DDR3 or DDR4, RAMs come with different memory speeds. Measured in MHz, memory speed refers to the operational capability of the RAM to process data within a second. It’s quite simple, what amount of data can the RAM process in a second? This is what the memory speed tells you all about. From 2400MHz to 4130MHz, there are multiple memory speeds of DDR4 RAM. If I have to be specific about the memory speed, 2400 MHz means the RAM can process 2.4 billion data reading and data writing cycles per second. Similarly, the maximum memory speed of 4130 MHz means, the RAM can process 4.3 billion cycles within a second. Keep in mind that the higher the memory speed, the faster the RAM.
Channels
RAM channeling is quite an interesting thing to learn about. Every motherboard features multiple channels for RAMs to operate. Commonly, you will find four RAM channels on a motherboard. Each channel could be utilized for a single RAM stick. For instance, If you have an 8GB RAM stick, you can plug it into any channel, and use it. Similarly, If you wish to, you can have a couple of 4GB RAM sticks and plug them into two different channels. But the question is, does it make any difference? Yes, it does! Even though the couple of 4GB RAM sticks are equal to 8GB RAM, they will do much better than an 8GB RAM stick. It is simply because Dual RAM Channeling is far better than Single RAM Channeling. Similarly, Triple RAM Channeling is way better than Dual RAM Channeling. The more you divide RAM into channels, the more efficiently and fastly it would perform. The concept behind RAM channels is very easy to understand. Using RAM on a single channel can be a bit problematic. Such as, It can slow down the flow of data on both sending and receiving ends. If loaded with extreme data, a single-channel RAM may lack performance. It is just like putting all the incoming and outgoing data in a single channel and expecting no traffic jam. A single-channel RAM only offers a single pathway. Whereas a dual channel RAM offers a dual pathway. A dual channel RAM offering dual pathways for data will offer superior performance. It’s because, If the RAM experiences a data traffic jam on one channel, it can turn towards the second channel to perform operations. In other words, the RAM will have two different pathways that can be used alternatively in time of a data traffic jam.
DDR Generation
It has been a couple of decades since the majority of PC users have switched to DDR RAMs. Although there were several types of RAMs in the past, only DDR RAMs have managed to dominate the market. More or less, every other PC is equipped with DDR RAM today. Based on generations, there are five types of DDR RAMs. While 1st generation DDR is nicknamed DDR1, the 2nd generation DDR is called DDR2. In other words, the digit refers to the generation of the DDR. Historically speaking, DDR1 and DDR2 RAMs used to serve PC users years ago and are now considered legacy technology. Switching to DDR3 RAMs, you will find tons of old PCs armed with them. Despite being in service for years, DDR3 RAM can be a good option to go for. But since DDR3 is getting close to being retired in near future, I would suggest you go for DDR4 RAM. Technically speaking, DDR4 RAM comes with advanced architecture allowing it to offer a faster data transfer rate and to be more energy efficient than its predecessor. But wait, am I missing something here? I guess, yes I am. Since DDR4 isn’t backward compatible, you can’t install it into an old motherboard that supports DDR3 RAM. Therefore, whether or not you can use DDR4 RAM will be determined by the type of motherboard your PC has. If you have a pretty old PC, there is a chance its motherboard would be incompatible with DDR4 RAM. The best way to clear the confusion is to go to the motherboard manufacturer’s website and check out the specification list. In case you want to have something super fast with super amazing performance, there is nothing better than DDR5 RAM. Considered the latest generation DDR RAM, It is the best available RAM breed for the last couple of years. DDR5 RAM is all about reading and writing the data with blazing speed and extreme power. In short, DDR5 is the uncrowned king of the tribe of RAMs.
Aesthetics
It comes as a secondary factor in the overall process of buying RAM. Since it doesn’t affect performance, It is one of the few things that you can ignore and not go for. But in case you love creativity and are into aesthetics, you might want to ensure you get a good-looking RAM. RAM’s aesthetics include a finely designed exterior, LEDs, and shape. The RAM should be cool enough to grab your attention. Overall, there are tons of types of aesthetics in RAMs. The aesthetic range could be quite big enough for you and it’s something you might want to consider. And why not? After all, whatever you are getting should look futuristic and should truly represent your taste.
CAS Latency
Apart from the clock speed, CAS Latency is also something you should look for in RAM. Now, what CAS Latency is all about? Let me explain it! The CAS Latency refers to the time that the RAM takes to enter the command and to make the data available. Measured in CL, the CAS Latency is an important factor in buying RAM. Starting from CL12, the maximum CAS latency of DDR4 RAM Is CL20. The lower the CAS Latency, the faster the RAM. However, this only applies to the RAMs having the same clock speed. For example, a DDR4-3200MHz CL15 RAM would outrun a DDR4-3200MHz CL16 RAM. Here, while the clock speed is the same, the CAS Latency isn’t. Therefore, RAM with lower latency would outrun the one with higher CAS Latency. Now If we compare a DDR4-3200MHz CL15 RAM with DDR4-3600 MHz CL17, the latter would win. Despite the lower CAS Latency, DDR4-3200 MHz CL15 RAM would lose the battle. Why? Simply because its clock speed is pretty lower than the DDR4-3600 MHz CL17 RAM. So the conclusion is that CAS Latency matters but as long as you are comparing two RAMs featuring the same clock speed.
Storage Capacity
A high-storage RAM outperforms a low-storage RAM by a great margin. As per the standard rule, the bigger the storage capacity the better the RAM performance. However, this doesn’t mean you should overload your PC with multiple high-storage RAMs. Before you think of the storage capacity, try to determine your requirements first. Otherwise, It will be just a waste of extra storage. If you are a low-end PC user, 4GB RAM is not a bad option to start with. Being a low-storage device, 4GB RAM will limit the operational capability of the computer. It will restrict you to everyday tasks like web surfing and the use of light programs and applications. Yeah, you can have an additional 4GB of RAM to power up the system. But as mentioned earlier, if it’s of no use, it will be a waste of money and extra storage. Similarly, considering the upsizing of heavy applications and programs, you will need a minimum of 8GB RAM for high productivity. This would enable the PC to perform heavy taskings such as video gaming, video editing, and uninterrupted live streaming. All similar tasks that require high processing power can be manageable with 8GB RAM. However, be sure that 8GB is the minimum storage you need to have for high productivity. If you love leaving tons of tabs open, running multiple heavy programs in the background, and playing graphics-intensive games, you might have to switch to 16GB of RAM as the perfect solution for high-end use. Apart from the high-end use, 16GB is the standard storage to future-proof your PC.
Form Factor
A RAM comes with multiple form factors aka sizes. Every form factor is designed for a specific use. Hence the same applies to the guide. It is all about the use of RAM that you want to buy it for. If you are getting RAM for a desktop computer, you will have to go for the DIMM form factor. Short for Dual In-line Memory Module, the DIMM form factor is designed specifically for a desktop computer. A DIMM RAM usually comprises a large stick that can easily be installed into a desktop computer’s motherboard. On the other hand, If you are buying RAM for a laptop, you better look for the SO-DIMM form factor. A RAM with SO-DIMM form factor comprises a small stick that can fit into a laptop.
ErrorBook’s Recommended RAMs
ErrorBook is an expert in recommending RAMs to PC builders. Its recommendation section is always filled with products that can live up to the expectations of the users. Whatever your use is, the following RAMs are super good for above-average use. Go through each RAM’s description and try to figure out what meets your needs.
Corsair Vengeance 5200MHz DDR5 (PC5-41600)
corsair vengeance 5200mhz ddr5 box
corsair vengeance 5200mhz ddr5 box
corsair vengeance 5200mhz ddr5 open
corsair vengeance 5200mhz ddr5 open
corsair vengeance 5200mhz ddr5 incase
corsair vengeance 5200mhz ddr5 incase
One of Corsair’s best products, this RAM is built with a pure intention to provide good performance for the price. When it comes to DDR5 RAMs powered by the 5200 clock speed, there is hardly anything that can come even close to this thing. Its ultimate power lies in a couple of sticks with each carrying a 16GB storage capacity making it a total of 32GB RAM.
For moderately fast results, the RAM operates at the hyper clock speed of 5200 MHz supported by the CAS latency of CL 40. This RAM is the only thing you need to boost your video gaming experience at 4k resolution. It is a truly remarkable device to run heavy video editing programs or applications that involve 3D image rendering. You get to experience more than you can think of.
Since it is supported by Onboard Voltage Regulation, you are unlikely to face any sort of interruption using it. It is quite a powerful RAM capable of aiding the CPU in ultra-fast data processing to improve the user experience. The 5200MHz DDR5 (PC5-41600) is a complete solution for mid-end use at a not-bad price.
Specs
(2x16GB) RAM Sticks
5200 MHz Clock Speed
CAS Latency CL40
Pros
High performance for the price
Dual Channeling
Best for 4K visual content
Cons
Lower clock speed compared to other DDR5 RAMs
Kingston Technology Fury Renegade RGB DDR5
kingston technology fury renegade rgb ddr5
kingston technology fury renegade rgb ddr5
kingston technology fury renegade rgb ddr5 open
kingston technology fury renegade rgb ddr5 open
kingston technology fury renegade rgb ddr5 incase
kingston technology fury renegade rgb ddr5 incase
When excellent quality and extra power are your only priorities, nothing comes better than a RAM like the Kingston Technology Fury Renegade RGB DDR5. Nicknamed beast, this RAM combines its operational clock speed of 6000MHz with CAS latency of CL 40 to deliver power-filled performance.
Both these features alone would enable you to play all graphics demanding video games without any trouble. And not just video games, you can also freely play 4k content with no hassle at all.
Its ultra-efficient architecture makes it a power-saving device for high-end use. As far as the storage capacity is concerned, the RAM is backed with two 16GB sticks that would ensure your PC gets dual channel pathways for data sending and receiving. It also features a heat spreader to fight against uncommon heat-up issues.
If you take a look at Kingston’s fleet of top RAMs, you will find the Fury Renegade RGB DDR5 RAM to be in it. In the class of DDR5-6000MHz RAMs, this device is a symbol of power and elite performance. It’s the rare combination of different advanced features that make it a truly remarkable RAM for high-end use in 2022.
Specs
(2x16GB) RAM Sticks
6000MHz Clock Speed
CAS Latency CL40
Pros
Ultra Speed
Extremely Powerful
Best for all types of 4K Visual content
Cons
High Price Tag
G.Skill Trident Z RGB Series 3600 MHz DDR4 (PC4-28800)
g.skill trident z rgb series 3600 mhz ddr4 box
g.skill trident z rgb series 3600 mhz ddr4 box
g.skill trident z rgb series 3600 mhz ddr4 unbox
g.skill trident z rgb series 3600 mhz ddr4 unbox
g.skill trident z rgb series 3600 mhz ddr4 incase
g.skill trident z rgb series 3600 mhz ddr4 incase
G.Skill has refined the concept of desktop memory by releasing more and more RAMs offering tons of features. Take a look at this utterly glorious RAM as it comes loaded with more features than fingers on your hands. If you talk about the storage capacity, it features a couple of 16GB sticks to dump a large amount of data for instant access.
Since it offers above-average clock speed, it goes quite well for high video gaming and similar levels of visual content. The RAM’s multi-shaded aesthetics is super fine to get a taste of a little bit of creativity. Multiple RGB lights contribute to the fascinating aesthetics of the RAM. Compared with most DDR4 RAMs available in the market, it delivers way faster results with enhanced performance than others.
Powered by the second latest technology, It offers a satisfactory result at a relatively good price for mid-level PC users. There are a fair number of reasons for this device to be a part of your PC. If you are looking for DDR4 3600 MHz RAM, there can’t be anything better than G.Skill’s DDR4 (PC4-28800).
Specs
(2x16GB) RAM Sticks
3600 MHz Clock Speed
RGB LEDs
Pros
Good for mid-level gaming
AMD Ryzen 3000 and Intel Z390 compatibility
Dual Channeling
Cons
Not for ultra high-end use
Questions Asked By RAM Buyers
Whenever reading a guide, don’t forget to dive into the FAQs section. This would help you to get additional information in the form of answers submitted in response to the questions. Although not every guide features an FAQ section, if any guide does, you better don’t skip it. The following are some of the questions asked by RAM buyers.
Wrap Up
While we are getting close to wrapping up the guide, I would like to share a few tips with you. When buying RAM, make sure to keep the most important factors on the priority list. Such as the form factor, DDR generation, storage capacity, and clock speed.
Furthermore, never undermine the value of a brand in favor of a bunch of features offered by any good-looking RAM. A reputable brand RAM with low numbers of features is way better than a non-reputable brand RAM with high numbers of features. Understand the game, it’s all about the quality over the quantity. If you liked the content or have got any questions, feel super free to let me know in the comments.
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