RAM memory can be divided into two types: SRAM and DRAM. They have different characteristics and to make it clear, let’s talk about each one of them:

• • SRAM: Faster of the two, and also the most expensive in price. This type of RAM is more economical when it comes to consumption and performs better. We can say that SRAM is more powerful and faster, making it a better version of DRAM.
  • DRAM: It is a little slower, and because of that, cheaper, and obviously the most common option. It needs to be updated frequently and consumes more energy.

As we have already said, RAM is extremely important for the use of the computer or notebook to be facilitated. Working or having fun without gagging and locking is much better, isn’t it?

If your computer is running slow or has difficulty doing certain activities, it may be time to install more RAM on the machine.

This type of memory opens and closes files, reads what is saved on the internal and external hard drives and determines the number of programs that are capable of running at the same time.

So, the lack of this memory component can be felt mainly when the computer starts to be more demanded, with video editing programs or with heavier visual resources. Before buying a new product, consider how much memory you will actually need. This will depend on your usage profile.

If you are a more basic user, who uses your computer to surf the internet and perform work with text editors, for example, a 4GB RAM memory already guarantees the proper functioning of the system. In general, this is enough for the home use of the most common programs.

To find out what is the ideal amount of RAM, the user must make an assessment of the computer’s usage profile.

Now, if the goal is to play newer games with high image resolution, the ideal is to opt for memories of 8 or even 16 GB. This setting is also more recommended for those using high definition video editing software.

It is also necessary to take into account another factor. To have a high performance of the computer in any of the mentioned activities, RAM is just one of the necessary components. Therefore, the processor and video card must also be suitable and compatible with each other.

Purchasing criteria: How to compare and choose the best RAM

For the best purchase to be made, the consumer needs to analyze well what he wants. That way, you choose what is most suitable for you, you do not regret it and you do not have something that does not meet your needs.

When choosing which RAM to take home, take the following points into account:

• Amount
• DDR
• Compatibility with other devices
• Response time

Let’s talk a little bit about each of them.

Amount

The larger the RAM memory, the greater the amount of work that can be done by the computer or notebook. Today on the market, memories are sold with capacities ranging between 2GB and 16GB. The choice between the different types must be based on the computer’s usage profile.

2GB memories are almost no longer sold, as they don’t meet the needs of almost any computer and user. With 4 GB, your computer is already capable of running several programs at the same time, as long as they are not heavy.

Multimedia content already runs more smoothly and it is even possible to use audio editing software without the risk of having to stop work due to crashes. The 8 or 16 GB memories are aimed mainly at those who want or need high performance in all activities.

Machines with these capabilities are capable of running state-of-the-art games, in addition to HD-definition video editing programs.

DDR

In addition to capacity, another number worth paying attention to before buying is DDR. This acronym stands for Double Transfer Rate. The values ​​vary between 2 and 4 and have to do with the speed at which the data is transferred. The models with DDR4 memory are the most advanced, use less energy and have more frequency (from 2,133 to 4,266 MHz).

In general, the higher the number, the better the performance of the memory stick. Also be sure to check if your PC’s motherboard is compatible and supports that speed. Today, most RAM models are already DDR4.

One tip is to check the Qualified Vendor List – QVL list, made available by the card manufacturers. In it, companies disclose which are the most suitable models of RAM for that specific product.

If the frequency is higher than supported, the RAM will malfunction or cannot be used. If it is smaller, the system will lose performance. The best thing is to make sure everything works.

Compatibility with other devices

A high capacity RAM memory is useless if it is not compatible with other devices on the computer where it will be installed. Before purchasing RAM for the PC, it is important to observe the entire configuration, such as processor and video card.

This is especially important for those who need high performance. More advanced games, for example, require a video card that supports the images that are reproduced.

A well-functioning video card is capable of providing greater color fidelity to images. It also takes better advantage of the monitor resolution and speeds up the rendering of videos.

Likewise, the processor is critical. He’s the brain of the computer. It is responsible for receiving, organizing and forwarding all data and therefore the RAM memory must be compatible.

Response time

This is an attribute that influences the performance of the system and also the price of RAM. The term latency has to do with the memory response time. That is, how long it takes for a given data to be accessed.

The value is measured in milliseconds. The smaller the better. This is how long the RAM will take to respond and send the data back to other components of the computer.