2024-04-20 17:43:09
Choosing the right RAM can have a significant impact on computer performance. But which option is better: DDR4 or DDR5?
Whether gaming, working or streaming – random access memory (RAM) plays a crucial role in the performance of a computer system. It serves as a buffer in which data and program code are stored in order to quickly supply the processor with information.
Compared to the hard drive, which works significantly slower, the RAM offers a significantly shorter access time. This leads to an increase in system performance and enables fast workflows.
The new generation of DDR5 has been around since 2021
Most computers and laptops today use RAM with a DDR4 structure, which has become standard since 2016 at the latest. By the way, DDR stands for “Double Data Rate” because it offers “double data rate” compared to the SDRAM memory type, which was used until the year 2000.
The new generation DDR5 was introduced in 2021, which brings great advantages to many users – more on this below. However, DDR5 memory is still significantly more expensive and not always better than its predecessor. In this article we look at the differences between the current RAM standards DDR4 and DDR5 and explain whether an upgrade to the new technology is worth it for you.
Three reasons to buy RAM
Very important: Not all RAM is the same, the differences can have a major impact on the overall performance of the computer. Nevertheless, RAM is one of the most underestimated components when it comes to putting together a new system.
Even in the item descriptions on the Internet or in dealers’ brochures, the maximum capacity of the storage bars is often only advertised. But other factors – such as speed or reaction time – also play an important role. There are usually three reasons for purchasing new or more RAM:
- You want to buy a new PC or laptop and have the choice between DDR4 and DDR5 RAM. In this case, you should definitely decide on a system in advance. If you change your mind afterwards, it can be expensive because you will then have to buy a new mainboard.
- The RAM built into your PC or laptop is defective and needs to be replaced.
- Your PC or laptop is running unstable or too slow and you want to increase performance by expanding memory.
There is no general answer to which storage type is right for which of these initial situations. The most important thing here is to know what you use your computer for. First of all, here are the most important advantages and disadvantages of the DDR4 and DDR5 memory systems so that you can get a better understanding of the different areas of application.
Advantages of DDR5 memory
DDR5 offers a significantly increased bandwidth and clock frequency compared to DDR4. Standard DDR5 modules can transfer around 50 percent more data than DDR4 modules, which is reflected in shorter loading times and smoother execution of individual programs. The increased computing speed is particularly noticeable in memory-intensive tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering or gaming.
Another advantage of DDR5 memory is its larger capacity, which is due to the increased chip density of the memory kits. This means that DDR5 memory bars can hold up to 128 gigabytes (GB) of data, while DDR4 bars are limited to 32 GB. However, you can usually install up to four memory sticks in a computer at the same time, increasing the maximum capacity.
The voltage required is also lower for DDR5 memory, making it more efficient overall than DDR4 memory. Because it uses less electricity and can therefore reduce operating costs. Additionally, the design of DDR5 memory has changed compared to its predecessor. This can better prevent data loss.
DDR4 RAM also has its advantages
The reaction time of the main memory – often also called latency or timing – is indicated by the CL value. CL stands for CAS latency, which in turn is the abbreviation for “Column Address Strobe Latency”, a term from storage technology.
The following applies here: the lower, the better. On paper, the response times of DDR4 memory bars are significantly better than those of the newer DDR5 modules. However, these are values in the nanosecond range, which you will not notice in practice. In addition, the latencies with DDR5 will probably continue to improve.
A much more important advantage of DDR4 for most users is probably the price. DDR4 memory is still significantly cheaper than DDR5, although the difference is decreasing. Exactly how big the difference is depends on the factors already mentioned above, such as capacity, speed and response time.
There are also price differences between individual manufacturers. The best known among them are Adata, Corsair, Crucial, G.Skill, Kingston and Patriot. In addition, an upgrade from DDR4 to DDR5 RAM is usually associated with purchasing a new motherboard. Here you should definitely pay attention to compatibility beforehand, because not every memory bar fits every motherboard.