What is the volume of RAM? How much computer RAM is there? Minimum RAM Requirements

RAM is a component of a computer. The most important characteristic is measured in gigabytes: the more, the better. Other characteristics are much less important - timings and number of strips, dual-channel... This device has many other names:

• "brain"
• memory
• RAM
• RAM (random access memory)
• SDRAM

What does RAM look like?

This article explains in detail the purpose of RAM, how to install it yourself (no more difficult than replacing a light bulb!), and the subtleties of choice. The main thing: after reading a couple of pages of this text, an inexperienced user will easily understand the marketing mantras about megahertz frequencies and will know whether another gigabyte of memory will be useful, or whether the seller is selling an unnecessary product.

What RAM does: a clear explanation

Temporarily stores operational information. Not the one needed to save movies with music, but the one used by Windows itself, programs, games, etc. Such information is stored only when the PC is turned on. The computer turns on, the system starts - and during startup, programs and modules are launched that write the necessary data from the HDD to RAM. So that the computer can “communicate” with this data very quickly - i.e. operate promptly(hence the term “operative”).

In short, this is ultra-fast memory, which is 300 times faster than a hard drive. The quick response of a running program (the instantaneous appearance of a menu when pressing the right mouse button, for example) is a merit of high RAM speeds.

Analogue RAM in the real world - something that is stored in the human brain for a short time. This data is ready for brain processing at any second. With RAM in the brain we can compare, for example, information that we remember for a short time while performing some kind of work. For example, we consider 9 + 3 = 1 and 2 in our minds... Or another example, a waiter remembers what a table was ordered for him - he will most likely forget this information in a couple of hours, replacing it with another. Of course, comparing human memory and computer memory is not very correct, because the brain works differently and everything that gets into the RAM can be remembered and end up in long-term memory (in the HDD), which cannot be the case with a computer... With the HDD, you can compare long-term memory, for example, we read a book and remember something. But access to such data is sometimes not fast, because in order to remember, you need to take a book from the shelf and refresh your memory - such memory can be compared to the hard drive memory in a computer - not fast, but fundamental.

Finally, there are also very lightning-fast types of memory. In a computer, this is the processor cache, which is tightly built into the CPU, and in the human head - something that has been firmly and firmly memorized since the school desk: the multiplication table, “live and write with the letter i”, “twice two”, etc. P.

How many GB of RAM do you need?

The bigger, the better? Yes, but only up to a certain limit. Modern computers (from 2012-14) are extremely rarely equipped with one gigabyte of RAM - this is already the day before yesterday and a museum exhibit, and not a real product in 2017.

2 gigabytes RAM is the typical capacity of frankly budget machines. Perhaps this is enough - but it is extremely uncomfortable in terms of speed and responsiveness even with the browser, Word, Skype and antivirus open. No, in 2017 two gigabytes are incredibly small - but somehow you can live with them.

4 gigabytes RAM is a certain “threshold” value of RAM capacity. Both fairly budget laptop models and more or less expensive analogues are equipped with four gigabytes. Enough? Frankly, yes; but there is no reserve. The “gluttony” of programs and the operating system itself is capable of loading all 4 gigabytes to capacity, although not always.

8 gigabytes DDR is a zone of comfort and tranquility. Rarely, very rarely, a computer will take up at least 5-6 gigabytes of RAM (this is in 2016, but in 2018 code appetites will be able to fill up a not so huge amount!).

16, 32 (or 128!) gigabytes RAM is unlikely to be needed by the average user - this is already out of space. What's the use of a multi-ton truck bed when the car can't carry anything larger than a washing machine? In 2017, it’s hardly worth buying additional gigabytes of RAM just to “have it.”

The table lists the main “eaters” of RAM. The numbers are only approximate - for some Windows takes more megabytes, for others less. Tabs with websites may contain a short page without pictures, or they may contain monstrous panels of social networks with all contacts, blinkers and reminders. Games require a lot, but before starting them it is customary to disable unnecessary browsers and text documents.

So, the table: who “eats” how much RAM. Typical RAM consumption by modern programs. 2016-2017; further - only more.

Programs and their components	Occupied amount of RAM, megabytes (not GB!)
OS Windows 7	500-1500
Windows 8 (or 10) OS	500-1800
Browser with 5-7 open tabs	400-800
Word	200
Skype	100
Numerous service processes, updates, drivers	10-20 MB in each of 20-50 such microprograms = 200-1000 megabytes
Download manager	20-30
Modern game	2000-3000
Game sample 2010-2012	1000-2000
Antivirus in normal condition	300-500
Antivirus in full scan mode	2000-2500

So how much RAM does Windows 7 need, for example? Try not to buy computers with 2 gigabytes on board - this is frankly not enough. 4 gigabytes is just good, 8 is super. More is not worth it, as a rule. 16 gigabytes and above are needed for:

• advanced “computer geeks”, for whom a completely standard task is to run 2-3 virtual systems in Windows;
• avid gamers with ultra-high resolution monitors and expensive video cards;
• programmers with the need to debug and test desktop programs;
• video designers and their photo colleagues - and even then not always;
• simply because you want more than others. No focus on practicality.

Types of RAM, frequency and other characteristics

18-20 years have passed since the introduction of the first DDR standard. Several generations of computers have changed, their performance has increased significantly. At any given time, no more than two generations of memory are relevant. In 2017, this is the rapidly aging DDR3, which reigned on the market for 7 years, and the already familiar DDR4. If you buy a new computer, then most likely it will be equipped with the fourth generation of RAM. If we are talking about upgrading an old one (5-8 years ago), then DDR3 works inside. The generations are not compatible with each other: it is physically impossible to insert a DDR4 die into the connector from the “three”, and vice versa.

RAM for laptops differs from regular “desktop” memory in physical dimensions. Laptop RAM is half the length of standard RAM. Frequencies, volume and generation of DDR correspond to each other for laptops and PCs. True, memory for laptops is divided into 2 more subcategories that are physically incompatible with each other:

• standardSO-DIMM(the SO prefix indicates the laptop RAM size) – the most common option;
• low power memory SO-DDR3L(or simply DDR3L, or the newest DDR4L): most often found in inexpensive laptop models.

The second important characteristic of RAM after capacity is frequency. The more, the better, in principle - but DDR4 at 2100 MHz is just a penny slower than DDR4 at 2800 MHz. The difference is almost 1-2 percent, and even then only in some applications. You shouldn't overpay for megahertz - maybe 2-3 dollars. There are also other characteristics of memory: delays, also known as timings. The lower the timings, the faster the memory works (that’s right - timing 10 is preferable to 12). You certainly shouldn’t rely on this characteristic, although in the DDR/DDR2 era 15 years ago timings mattered more than they do today. However, this is already history.

RAM prices: let's look at the offers

Since about 2010, RAM has been obscenely cheap compared to older times. How much exactly? We apologize for the prices in dollars, but... they are not called “evergreen” for nothing. The prices given are not the cheapest, according to the online store Bayon.ru - but with a margin.

Table: cost of RAM (for laptop and PC), 2017. DDR3 and DDR4 models are presented, as well as “laptop” SO-DIMM form factors.

Memory type	Frequency, MHz	Price,$	Note
DDR3, 2 GB	1600	19,85	Cheapest decent option
DDR3, 4 GB	1600	26,00
DDR3, 4 GB	2400	32,15	Dear, “overclocker” RAM
DDR3, 8 GB	1600	38,60
SO-DIMM DDR3, 2 GB	1600	19,85	The cheapest RAM stick for a laptop
SO-DIMM DDR3, 4 GB	1600	27,50	The most popular type of laptop RAM
SO-DIMM DDR3, 4 GB	1833	29,30	Popular volume, increased frequency
SO-DIMM DDR3, 8 GB	1600	34,50	Large volume, standard frequency
DDR4, 4 GB	2133	26,00	Average DDR3 4 GB
DDR4, 8 GB	2133	42,90	Popular high volume bar
DDR4, 8 GB	2400	55,60	Large volume, increased frequency
SO-DIMM DDR4, 4 GB	2133	27,50	Standard bracket for a modern laptop
SO-DIMM DDR4, 8 GB	2133	43,50	Volume bar of a modern laptop

Is it worth upgrading (adding) RAM?

Definitely yes, if the amount of RAM is less than 2-3 gigabytes: the performance increase will be visible to the naked eye. The performance "breaking point" is somewhere between 2 and 4 GB of RAM. Less RAM means significantly less speed. More - everything works as it should, in a word - “flies”.

More likely yes than no, if the available volume is 4 gigabytes. The speed of the computer is unlikely to increase, but there will be significantly fewer freezes and lags. Not a bad investment.

There is no need if there are already 6-8 gigabytes “on board”.

There is no need if the point of updates is to buy DDR with a higher clock frequency. The benefit from such an upgrade, if not zero, tends to be so.

How to add RAM to a computer? What about a laptop? DIY RAM upgrade

PC desktops are larger “creations”. Inside the case you can place at least 10 laptops (in size!). There are a lot of slots and connectors on desktop motherboards, unlike ultra-compact laptops, where every millimeter is saved. The typical number of slots in a computer for RAM is 2 or 4. As a rule, only 1-2 of them are occupied. Adding a RAM stick to an already working one is a matter of a couple of minutes. It is enough to turn off the computer, open the system unit and insert the DDR stick into the appropriate connector. No tools or even a screwdriver are needed.

The main requirement is that the RAM must be of the appropriate generation. There is no way to fit modern DDR4 into a DDR3 slot: even their sizes are different. But the volume of the additional bar can be any. The frequency can also be any, but at different frequencies of several RAM sticks, the computer runs on the smallest of them.

On laptops everything is a little more complicated. They have three types of RAM slots:

1. Dual slot configurations: as a rule, RAM is already inserted into 2 connectors. In this case, you should buy one more capacious module and replace the existing one with a new one. Classics of the genre: 4 GB of RAM, 2 sticks of 2 GB each. There are no other connectors. You will have to buy a 4 GB memory module (or 8 GB, if necessary), and insert it in place of the old one. As a result, we get 6 GB of RAM. By the way, the old module can be sold.

   Less commonly, there are two slots, one of which is occupied and the other is free. Everything is perfectly simple: we buy additional RAM of any volume, insert it into an empty slot. For example, there were 4 GB (one stick), we buy another 4 GB in one stick, insert... the result is 8 GB.

1. Single-slot configurations(usually inexpensive laptop models). There is only one slot, and it, of course, is already filled with RAM. The only option is to remove the old module and install a new one with a larger volume.
2. Laptops with soldered RAM. An upgrade is almost impossible: unsoldering the old module and re-soldering the new one is a non-trivial and very risky task. However, the RAM is permanently soldered only in inexpensive machines, and this does not happen too often.

How to find out the number of slots and type of memory in a laptop or computer

Any diagnostic program like CPU-Z will do. Download, install, look in the memory section.

Basic information about RAM: how many GB, etc., is located in the Memory tab. The following characteristics are immediately visible:

• Memory type: DDR3
• RAM capacity: 6 GB
• Number of channels: 2 (Dual)
• Less interesting indicators are timings and frequency: 665.1 MHz (the DDR standard implies two-way exchange of information with memory, so the true frequency is 1333 MHz).

The following conclusions can be drawn: the computer (in this case, a laptop) clearly has 2 slots, both of which are occupied. This is indicated by the two-channel operating mode, which is possible only if there is an even number of strips. Another conclusion is a clearly non-standard configuration: 4+2 GB of RAM. Typically, manufacturers set the amount of RAM that is a multiple of 2: 2, 4, 8, or 16 gigabytes. This means that the owner has already upgraded the RAM.

Much more detailed information is described in the next tab of the CPU-Z utility: SPD (brain speed). In the upper left part of the window you can actually see that there are 2 slots, both of them are occupied. The first connector houses a 2 gig (2048 MB) chip with a frequency of 667 (1333 MHz). The second has 4 gigabytes (4096 MB) with the same frequency of 1333.

A couple of information bonuses: the production date of one of the RAMs is visible (week 9 of 2011), and the manufacturers of both sticks: Nanya and PNY.

How can you upgrade the RAM in the example above? 6 gigabytes is quite sufficient volume for 2016, but if you have a strong desire, you can buy one 4 GB DDR3 stick (price - about 26 dollars), and insert it instead of the old 2 GB one (by the way, you can sell it for 5 dollars). 8). The result will be 8 gigabytes of RAM.

Manufacturers of RAM: which one is better. And – final tips

Whoever produces RAM: the processor giant AMD, Samsung and LG, and numerous Kingston, Corsair, etc. In the most numerous segment of RAM there is really no difference between manufacturers. They all produce reliable and fast DDR, which is capable of some overclocking.

You should think about the manufacturer only in cases where more serious overclocking, special requirements for reliability, and, perhaps, for the artistic beauty of RAM are required. That's right, more expensive models are available with optional, but amazingly cute radiators for cooling the modules.

And further. RAM is a remarkably reliable thing. It is quite safe to pick it up, “used” - most likely, it will work for many more years, with the same characteristics and energy consumption.

Users interested in “what affects a computer” and asking similar questions have come to the right address. The article covers all these topics. But before we move on to solving problems, let's understand what RAM is and how much RAM is needed. Random access memory or random access memory (RAM) is a volatile (short-term, non-permanent) memory.

When the computer is turned off, it is reset to zero, which is why it is called volatile. It is needed for temporary storage of intermediate data that is processed by the processor and currently executing machine code. RAM stores running applications, services and intermediate results of their operation.

RAM for a computer is made in the form of so-called “slats” with an incredible number of transistors (dynamic) or transistors and capacitors (static). Any user can install RAM in the appropriate slot with which the motherboard is equipped.

You can’t install it incorrectly - various models of brackets are equipped with keys - cuts, for which similar shaped convexities are located on the motherboard. Thanks to this implementation, the user will be able to increase the computer’s RAM or replace a non-working “bar” in a matter of seconds.

How much RAM do you need on your computer?

Let's figure out how much RAM is needed for a modern computer to cope with its tasks.

There is no optimal amount of RAM in nature, and there are two main reasons for this.

1. Computers are used to solve various problems (one user just needs to launch the player, browser and office applications, another works with resource-intensive applications for video editing, 3D and other modeling, a third plays new games).
2. Moore's Law. Although its operation has been questioned over the past couple of years (it stops working), the amount of RAM required for normal computer operation is constantly increasing.

Let's consider the amount of RAM required for 2016.

2 GB

Let's start with the fact that installations of Windows operating systems require 2 GB of RAM. For smaller volumes, you need to use only XP.

A computer with 2 GB of RAM is considered an office computer - it is comfortable to work with office applications, the Internet, and watch movies.

In this case, use a page file or virtual memory (analogous to RAM, in which currently unused data is written to the hard drive). It's been around since Vista.

4 GB

This amount of memory is now optimal. A Windows 7 -10 user will be able to work without problems in graphic and video editors, and with web applications. What you need for normal operation, periodic file conversion and video processing.

8 GB

Almost every game released in the last year and a half consumes at least 4 GB of RAM. Therefore, gamers are recommended to use at least 8 GB of RAM. Remember that the speed of games depends primarily on the performance of the video card, and only then on the RAM.

In 2017, the amount of required RAM can be increased by 1.5 times. And for the latest new games, 12 GB will be enough.

WATCH THE VIDEO

How to find out the amount of RAM?

We figured out what RAM is. Now let's move on to methods that will help determine its volume on a computer or laptop. The operating system tools are enough for this. But to obtain detailed data (for those who want to increase the RAM on the computer), you will have to resort to using third-party utilities.

Checking the amount of RAM using Windows

The first method is the simplest and fastest. To see data about the amount of RAM, go to the “System” information window. This is done using the following methods:

• through the “Properties” item of the “My Computer” directory;
• go to “My Computer” using the “Win ​​+ E” keys and click “System” in the top menu;
• go to the “Control Panel”, where we find the required item.
• When grouping items, the item is located in the “System and Security” menu.

In the window that opens, find the line “Installed memory (RAM)”
Similar information will be displayed after entering the command “msinfo32” into the search bar of the “Start” menu or the “Run” window, called up using the combination “Win ​​+ R”
The last way to find out the amount of RAM through the graphical interface is the “dxdiag” command entered into the same “Run” window or search line

The last option to see the number of bytes of RAM on your computer is to use the Windows command interpreter tools.

1. Launch the command line.
2. Type “cmd” into the search or “Run” box and click “Enter.”
3. Enter the command “winsat mem -v” in the text line.
4. Press "Enter".

We are looking for the line “Total physical mem available to the OS”

Find out the amount of RAM using third-party utilities

Alas, Windows developers did not provide the ability to view the frequency of RAM using OS tools. To do this, we will resort to the help of free utilities Speccy from Piriform and HWinfo.

To see the detailed characteristics of the RAM, run the HWinfo utility.

Although it is distributed in English, it will not cause any difficulties in operation.

1. The left frame displays a tree structure of the PC hardware.
2. Go to the “Memory” item.
3. The right frame contains detailed RAM data - the first line: “TotalMemorySize” displays its total volume.
4. Just below, in the “CurrentMemoryClock” line, the current (operating) frequency of the RAM is indicated.

In the free Speccy program, actions are carried out in a similar way: launch the utility and go to the appropriate section.

The right information panel displays information about the computer's memory.

Another option to determine the amount of RAM is to unscrew the side panel of the computer and look at the stickers on the RAM strip or strips. Viewing laptop memory in this way is a little more difficult, so it’s better to use software methods.

Types of RAM

RAM is classified according to several indicators. One we mentioned earlier is dynamic DRAM and static SRAM memory (depending on the elements on which the memory cells are made).

The next classification of RAM is the execution architecture and, accordingly, operating frequency, bandwidth. Types of RAM depending on the architecture:

• DDR is an outdated RAM standard operating at frequencies up to 400 MHz.
• DDR2 is a widely used, but being replaced in recent years, RAM operating at frequencies from 533 to 1066 MHz.
• DDR3 is a new standard that is gaining popularity (operating frequency from 1 to 2 GHz). The performance increase compared to DDR 2 is 5-10%.
• DDR4 is a model that appeared in 2014, the operating frequency of which exceeds 2 GHz.

Not yet popular and intended for gamers, overclockers and other enthusiasts

There are also types of RAM that have gone out of use (with rare exceptions): SIMM, DIMM, SDRAM.

Due to the fact that RAM is made in the form of quick-removable modules, increasing the computer’s RAM will not be difficult for any user. When choosing RAM, be sure to pay attention to the architecture and operating frequency.

Now you know how much RAM you need.

Anyone who has ever thought about upgrading their “iron horse”, i.e. PCs, we have repeatedly asked ourselves the question of how much random access memory (RAM) is needed for stable, comfortable operation of the hardware. The only trouble is that few people care about the rest of the hardware configuration. But since the question exists, let's look at it.

What is RAM?

RAM is inconspicuous PCB strips with chips that are responsible for the speed of the OS and other components. It works in conjunction with a video card and processor, and is attached, accordingly, to the motherboard. The performance of this element is determined according to the following principles:

1. standard;
2. frequency;
3. delays (timings);
4. volume.

Regarding the first point. The second and third generation trims are now widely represented on the market, i.e. DDR2 and DDR3. DDR4 is also gaining momentum, but they are too expensive now, so we won’t consider them. DDR1, in turn, has long been obsolete, and the second generation faces the same fate.

Frequencies. DDR2 is capable of operating at frequencies from 533 to 800 MHz. There are variations at 1066 MHz, but they are extremely rare. DDR3 extends the range from 1066 to 2400 MHz. The higher the indicator, the faster the memory. Timings are a purely overclocking concept, and will be of interest only to those who overclock components. But let’s look at the volume in more detail, since this is the key element that determines the speed of data processing.

Required volume for different systems

Remember that every operating system has such an element as bit depth, namely 32 and 64 bits. In the first case, the system will not “see” more than 4 GB of RAM, and no more than 3.25 GB will be available to the user. The 64-bit OS is devoid of these shortcomings and is able to recognize about 192 GB of memory. Another thing is that only a few will need such an impressive amount.

As for the minimum resource consumption, for Windows xp, for example, it is only 256 MB. But this figure does not mean that the system will “fly”. Enough to start, but no more. To comfortably launch office applications and not wait for several minutes, you will need at least 1 GB. It is noteworthy that the OS interface is not demanding, so there should not be any problems with display.

The "seven" requires much more memory, even if we are talking about a 32-bit system. Let's start with the fact that this OS has a “gluttonous” Aero interface, which by default consumes half of the system memory installed on the PC. In other words, in order to work in more or less comfortable conditions, you need to install at least 2 GB of RAM, or better yet 4. For Windows 7 64 bit, the entry threshold is already 4 GB. It is highly not recommended to equip with less memory, because the system will require much more “for itself”.

If we talk about the “eight”, then it will feel comfortable even with 1 GB, because the tiled interface is not demanding in terms of resources. But for Windows 8 64 bit , the old fashioned way, you need at least 4 GB.

Memory gradation for comfortable work

As a basis, we will take a basic office assembly, in which 2 GB of RAM is installed. With this amount of memory you can work with text, surf the Internet, or watch movies online. Another thing is that you won’t be able to open Full HD pictures, because everything will depend on a cheap video card. And such a “budget” amount of memory will not allow you to reproduce an impressive stream of data.

Working in Photoshop is also difficult. You simply won’t open more than 1 high-quality image, and if you do, the work will be carried out with huge delays. The system will be forced to constantly access the swap file located on the hard drive, which is extremely slow in relation to RAM. When it comes to laptops, a small volume is characterized by rapid battery drain. But it's all about the same access to the swap file.

By increasing the volume to 4 GB, you can get an impressive performance boost. Firstly, it will be useful for games with a lot of textures. It is desirable that the video card be appropriate. Access to the paging file will be kept to a minimum, and this may increase the battery life of the laptop. You can even activate various “beauties” on Windows in the form of widgets and smooth opening/closing of windows.

8 GB will be simply necessary for those who professionally engage in video editing, editing, or creating graphic and 3D objects. Moreover, you can activate several resource-intensive applications at once, which will be used in parallel, with complete impunity, and play relaxing music in good quality in the background.

But such a large volume is only advisable if the overall configuration of the PC allows it to accommodate such an amount of memory. The main stumbling block is the motherboard. Firstly, it must have full support for RAM of 8 GB and above. It is desirable that there are two strips, and they can operate freely in dual-channel mode. This will further improve performance and improve power consumption. In case of “downtime”, the computer is unlikely to use its entire capacity.

The processor must be high-performance. Preferably, quad-core, or 2 cores, with a frequency of 3 GHz or more for each. Such a “stone” will reveal the full potential of your entire hardware, while there will be practically no calls to the swap file.

RAM is used to temporarily store data necessary for the operation of the operating system and all programs. There should be enough RAM; if there is not enough, the computer starts to slow down.

The board with memory chips is called a memory module (or stick). Memory for a laptop, except for the size of the slots, is no different from memory for a computer, so when choosing, follow the same recommendations.

For an office computer, one 4 GB DDR4 stick with a frequency of 2400 or 2666 MHz is enough (costs almost the same).
RAM Crucial CT4G4DFS824A

For a multimedia computer (movies, simple games), it is better to take two 4 GB DDR4 sticks with a frequency of 2666 MHz, then the memory will work in a faster dual-channel mode.
RAM Ballistix BLS2C4G4D240FSB

For a mid-class gaming computer, you can take one 8 GB DDR4 stick with a frequency of 2666 MHz so that in the future you can add another one, and it would be better if it is a simpler running model.
RAM Crucial CT8G4DFS824A

And for a powerful gaming or professional PC, you need to immediately take a set of 2 DDR4 8 GB sticks, and a frequency of 2666 MHz will be quite sufficient.

2. How much memory is needed

For an office computer designed for working with documents and accessing the Internet, one 4 GB memory stick is sufficient.

For a multimedia computer that can be used to watch high-quality videos and undemanding games, 8 GB of memory is sufficient.

For a mid-range gaming computer, the minimum option is 8 GB of RAM.

A powerful gaming or professional computer requires 16 GB of memory.

A larger amount of memory may be needed only for very demanding professional programs and is not needed by ordinary users.

Memory capacity for older PCs

If you decide to increase the memory on your old computer, keep in mind that 32-bit versions of Windows do not support more than 3 GB of RAM. That is, if you install 4 GB of RAM, the operating system will see and use only 3 GB.

As for 64-bit versions of Windows, they will be able to use all the installed memory, but if you have an old computer or an old printer, then they may not have drivers for these operating systems. In this case, before purchasing memory, install the 64-bit version of Windows and check if everything works for you. I also recommend looking at the website of the motherboard manufacturer and seeing what volume of modules and total amount of memory it supports.

Please also note that 64-bit operating systems consume 2 times more memory, for example, Windows 7 x64 takes about 800 MB for its needs. Therefore, 2 GB of memory for such a system will not be enough, preferably at least 4 GB.

Practice shows that modern operating systems Windows 7,8,10 are fully operational with a memory capacity of 8 GB. The system becomes more responsive, programs open faster, and jerks (freezes) disappear in games.

3. Types of memory

Modern memory is of the DDR SDRAM type and is constantly being improved. So DDR and DDR2 memory is already obsolete and can only be used on older computers. DDR3 memory is no longer advisable to use on new PCs; it has been replaced by the faster and more promising DDR4.

Please note that the selected memory type must be supported by the processor and motherboard.

Also, new processors, for compatibility reasons, can support DDR3L memory, which differs from regular DDR3 in reduced voltage from 1.5 to 1.35 V. Such processors will be able to work with regular DDR3 memory if you already have it, but processor manufacturers do not recommend this because -due to increased degradation of memory controllers designed for DDR4 with an even lower voltage of 1.2 V.

Memory type for older PCs

Outdated DDR2 memory costs several times more than more modern memory. A 2 GB DDR2 stick costs 2 times more, and a 4 GB DDR2 stick costs 4 times more than a DDR3 or DDR4 stick of the same size.

Therefore, if you want to significantly increase the memory on an old computer, then perhaps the best option would be to switch to a more modern platform by replacing the motherboard and, if necessary, a processor that will support DDR4 memory.

Calculate how much it will cost you; perhaps a profitable solution would be to sell the old motherboard with old memory and purchase new, albeit not the most expensive, but more modern components.

The motherboard connectors for installing memory are called slots.

Each memory type (DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4) has its own slot. DDR3 memory can only be installed in a motherboard with DDR3 slots, DDR4 - with DDR4 slots. Motherboards that support old DDR2 memory are no longer produced.

5. Memory characteristics

The main characteristics of memory on which its performance depends are frequency and timings. Memory speed does not have as strong an impact on overall computer performance as the processor. However, you can often get faster memory for not much more. Fast memory is needed primarily for powerful professional computers.

5.1. Memory frequency

Frequency has the greatest impact on memory speed. But before purchasing it, you need to make sure that the processor and motherboard also support the required frequency. Otherwise, the actual memory operating frequency will be lower and you will simply overpay for something that will not be used.

Inexpensive motherboards support lower maximum memory frequencies, for example for DDR4 it is 2400 MHz. Mid-range and high-end motherboards can support higher frequency memory (3400-3600 MHz).

But with processors the situation is different. Older processors with DDR3 memory support may support memory with a maximum frequency of 1333, 1600, or 1866 MHz (depending on the model). For modern processors that support DDR4 memory, the maximum supported memory frequency may be 2400 MHz or higher.

Intel 6th generation and higher processors and AMD Ryzen processors support DDR4 memory at 2400 MHz or higher. Moreover, their lineup includes not only powerful expensive processors, but also mid-range and budget-class processors. Thus, you can build a computer on the most modern platform with an inexpensive processor and DDR4 memory, and in the future change the processor and get the highest performance.

The main memory today is DDR4 2400 MHz, which is supported by the most modern processors, motherboards and costs the same as DDR4 2133 MHz. Therefore, purchasing DDR4 memory with a frequency of 2133 MHz today does not make sense.

You can find out what memory frequency a particular processor supports on the manufacturers’ websites:

By model number or serial number it is very easy to find all the characteristics of any processor on the website:

Or simply enter the model number in the Google or Yandex search engine (for example, “Ryzen 7 1800X”).

5.2. High Frequency Memory

Now I want to touch on another interesting point. On sale you can find RAM at a much higher frequency than any modern processor supports (3000-3600 MHz and higher). Accordingly, many users are wondering how this can be?

It's all about a technology developed by Intel, eXtreme Memory Profile (XMP). XMP allows memory to run at a higher frequency than the processor officially supports. XMP must be supported by both the memory itself and the motherboard. High-frequency memory simply cannot exist without support for this technology, but not all motherboards can boast of its support. These are mainly more expensive models above the middle class.

The essence of XMP technology is that the motherboard automatically increases the frequency of the memory bus, due to which the memory begins to operate at its higher frequency.

AMD has a similar technology called AMD Memory Profile (AMP), which was supported by older AMD processor motherboards. These motherboards usually also supported XMP modules.

Purchasing more expensive memory with a very high frequency and a motherboard with XMP support makes sense for very powerful professional computers equipped with a top-end processor. In a middle-class computer, this will be wasted money, since everything will depend on the performance of other components.

In games, the memory frequency has a small impact and there is no point in overpaying; it will be enough to go for 2400 MHz, or 2666 MHz if the difference in price is small.

For professional applications, you can take memory with a higher frequency - 2666 MHz or, if you want and have funds, 3000 MHz. The difference in performance here is greater than in games, but not dramatic, so there is no particular point in pushing the memory frequency.

Let me remind you once again that your motherboard must support memory at the required frequency. In addition, sometimes Intel processors become unstable at memory frequencies above 3000 MHz, and for Ryzen this limit is around 2900 MHz.

Timings are the delays between read/write/copy operations of data in RAM. Accordingly, the fewer these delays, the better. But timings have a much smaller impact on memory speed than its frequency.

There are only 4 main timings that are indicated in the characteristics of memory modules.

Of these, the most important is the first number, which is called latency (CL).

Typical latency for DDR3 1333 MHz memory is CL 9, for higher frequency DDR3 memory is CL 11.

Typical latency for DDR4 2133 MHz memory is CL 15, for DDR4 memory with a higher frequency is CL 16.

You should not purchase memory with a latency higher than specified, as this indicates an overall low level of its technical characteristics.

Typically, memory with lower timings is more expensive, but if the price difference is not significant, then memory with lower latency should be preferred.

5.4. Supply voltage

Memory may have different supply voltages. It can be either standard (generally accepted for a certain type of memory), or increased (for enthusiasts) or, conversely, decreased.

This is especially important if you want to add memory to your computer or laptop. In this case, the voltage of the new strips should be the same as the existing ones. Otherwise, problems are possible, since most motherboards cannot set different voltages for different modules.

If the voltage is set to a level with a lower voltage, then others may not have enough power and the system will not work stably. If the voltage is set to a level with a higher voltage, then the memory designed for a lower voltage may fail.

If you are building a new computer, then this is not so important, but to avoid possible compatibility problems with the motherboard and replacing or expanding memory in the future, it is better to choose sticks with a standard supply voltage.

The memory, depending on the type, has the following standard supply voltages:

• DDR - 2.5 V
• DDR2 - 1.8 V
• DDR3 - 1.5 V
• DDR3L - 1.35 V
• DDR4 - 1.2 V

I think you noticed that there is DDR3L memory in the list. This is not a new type of memory, but regular DDR3, but with a reduced supply voltage (Low). This is the kind of memory needed for 6th generation Intel processors and higher, which support both DDR4 and DDR3 memory. But in this case, it is better to build the system on new DDR4 memory.

6. Marking of memory modules

Memory modules are marked depending on the type of memory and its frequency. The marking of DDR memory modules begins with PC, followed by a number indicating the generation and speed in megabytes per second (MB/s).

Such markings are inconvenient to navigate; it is enough to know the type of memory (DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4), its frequency and latency. But sometimes, for example on ad sites, you can see markings copied from the strip. Therefore, so that you can get your bearings in this case, I will give the markings in a classic form, indicating the type of memory, its frequency and typical latency.

DDR - obsolete

• PC-2100 (DDR 266 MHz) - CL 2.5
• PC-2700 (DDR 333 MHz) - CL 2.5
• PC-3200 (DDR 400 MHz) - CL 2.5

DDR2 - obsolete

• PC2-4200 (DDR2 533 MHz) - CL 5
• PC2-5300 (DDR2 667 MHz) - CL 5
• PC2-6400 (DDR2 800 MHz) - CL 5
• PC2-8500 (DDR2 1066 MHz) - CL 5

DDR3 - obsolete

• PC3-10600 (DDR3 1333 MHz) - CL 9
• PC3-12800 (DDR3 1600 MHz) - CL 11
• PC3-14400 (DDR3 1866 MHz) - CL 11
• PC3-16000 (DDR3 2000 MHz) - CL 11

• PC4-17000 (DDR4 2133 MHz) - CL 15
• PC4-19200 (DDR4 2400 MHz) - CL 16
• PC4-21300 (DDR4 2666 MHz) - CL 16
• PC4-24000 (DDR4 3000 MHz) - CL 16
• PC4-25600 (DDR4 3200 MHz) - CL 16

DDR3 and DDR4 memory may have a higher frequency, but only top processors and more expensive motherboards can work with it.

7. Design of memory modules

Memory sticks can be single-sided, double-sided, with or without radiators.

7.1. Chip placement

Chips on memory modules can be placed on one side of the board (single-sided) or on both sides (double-sided).

This doesn't matter if you are purchasing memory for a new computer. If you want to add memory to an old PC, then it is advisable that the arrangement of chips on the new stick be the same as on the old one. This will help avoid compatibility issues and increase the likelihood of memory operating in dual-channel mode, which we will talk about later in this article.

Now on sale you can find many memory modules with aluminum radiators of various colors and shapes.

The presence of heatsinks can be justified on DDR3 memory with a high frequency (1866 MHz or more), since it heats up more. At the same time, ventilation must be well organized in the housing.

Modern DDR4 RAM with a frequency of 2400, 2666 MHz practically does not heat up and the radiators on it will be purely decorative. They can even get in the way, because after a while they become clogged with dust, which is difficult to clean out of them. In addition, such memory will cost slightly more. So, if you want, you can save on this, for example, by taking excellent Crucial 2400 MHz memory without heatsinks.

Memory with a frequency of 3000 MHz or more also has an increased supply voltage, but it also does not heat up very much and in any case there will be heatsinks on it.

8. Memory for laptops

Memory for laptops differs from memory for desktop computers only in the size of the memory module and is labeled SO-DIMM DDR. Just like for desktop computers, memory for laptops has types DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR3L, DDR4.

In terms of frequency, timings and supply voltage, memory for laptops is no different from memory for computers. But laptops only come with 1 or 2 memory slots and have stricter maximum capacity limits. Be sure to check these parameters before choosing memory for a specific laptop model.

9. Memory operating modes

The memory can operate in Single Channel, Dual Channel, Triple Channel or Quad Channel mode.

In single-channel mode, data is written sequentially to each module. In multi-channel modes, data is written in parallel to all modules, which leads to a significant increase in the speed of the memory subsystem.

Single-channel memory mode is limited only to hopelessly outdated motherboards with DDR memory and the first models with DDR2.

All modern motherboards support dual-channel memory mode, while three-channel and quad-channel modes are supported only by a few models of very expensive motherboards.

The main condition for dual-channel mode operation is the presence of 2 or 4 memory sticks. Three-channel mode requires 3 or 6 memory sticks, and four-channel mode requires 4 or 8 memory sticks.

It is desirable that all memory modules are the same. Otherwise, dual-channel operation is not guaranteed.

If you want to add memory to an old computer and your motherboard supports dual-channel mode, try to choose a stick that is as identical in all respects as possible. It is best to sell the old one and buy 2 new identical strips.

In modern computers, memory controllers have been moved from the motherboard to the processor. Now it is not so important that the memory modules are the same, since the processor will still be able to activate dual-channel mode in most cases. This means that if in the future you want to add memory to a modern computer, you will not necessarily need to look for exactly the same module; you just need to choose the one that is most similar in characteristics. But I still recommend that the memory modules be the same. This will give you a guarantee of its fast and stable operation.

With the transfer of memory controllers to the processor, 2 more modes of dual-channel memory operation appeared - Ganged (paired) and Unganged (unpaired). If the memory modules are the same, the processor can work with them in Ganged mode, as before. If the modules differ in characteristics, the processor can activate the Unganged mode to eliminate distortions in working with memory. In general, the memory speed in these modes is almost the same and makes no difference.

The only downside to dual-channel mode is that multiple memory modules are more expensive than one of the same size. But if you are not very strapped for money, then buy 2 sticks, the memory speed will be much higher.

If you need, say, 16 GB of RAM, but you can’t afford it yet, then you can purchase one 8 GB stick so that you can add another one of the same kind in the future. But it is still better to purchase two identical strips at once, since later you may not be able to find the same one and you will encounter a compatibility problem.

10. Memory module manufacturers

One of the best price/quality ratios today comes from the memory of the impeccably proven Crucial brand, which has modules from budget to gaming (Ballistix).

Competing with it is the well-deserved Corsair brand, whose memory is somewhat more expensive.

As an inexpensive but high-quality alternative, I especially recommend the Polish brand Goodram, which has bars with low timings at a low price (Play line).

For an inexpensive office computer, simple and reliable memory made by AMD or Transcend will be sufficient. They have proven themselves to be excellent and there are practically no problems with them.

In general, the Korean companies Hynix and Samsung are considered leaders in memory production. But now modules of these brands are mass-produced in cheap Chinese factories, and among them there are a lot of fakes. Therefore, I do not recommend purchasing memory from these brands.

An exception may be Hynix Original and Samsung Original memory modules, which are manufactured in Korea. These strips are usually blue, their quality is considered better than those made in China and the guarantee for them is slightly higher. But in terms of speed characteristics, they are inferior to memory with lower timings from other quality brands.

Well, for enthusiasts and fans of modding there are affordable overclocking brands GeIL, G.Skill, Team. Their memory has low timings, high overclocking potential, an unusual appearance and costs a little less than the well-promoted Corsair brand.

There is also a wide range of memory modules on sale from the very popular manufacturer Kingston. Memory sold under the budget Kingston brand has never been of high quality. But they have a top-end HyperX series, which is deservedly popular, which can be recommended for purchase, but is often overpriced.

11. Memory packaging

It is better to purchase memory in individual packaging.

It is usually of higher quality and is much less likely to be damaged in transit than memory that comes loose.

12. Increase memory

If you are planning to add memory to an existing computer or laptop, then first find out what the maximum memory capacity and total memory capacity is supported by your motherboard or laptop.

Also check how many memory slots are on the motherboard or laptop, how many of them are occupied and what kind of memory sticks are installed in them. It's better to do it visually. Open the case, take out the memory sticks, examine them and write down all the characteristics (or take a photo).

If for some reason you don’t want to get into the case, you can view the memory parameters in the program on the SPD tab. This way you won't know if the stick is single-sided or double-sided, but you can find out the memory characteristics if there is no sticker on the stick.

There is a base and effective memory frequency. The CPU-Z program and many similar ones show the base frequency, it must be multiplied by 2.

Once you know how much memory you can increase, how many free slots are available, and what kind of memory you have installed, you can begin to explore the possibilities of increasing memory.

If all memory slots are occupied, then the only way to increase memory is to replace existing memory sticks with new ones of larger capacity. And old planks can be sold on an advertisement site or exchanged at a computer store when purchasing new ones.

If there are free slots, then you can add new memory sticks to the existing ones. In this case, it is desirable that the new strips be as close as possible to the characteristics of those already installed. In this case, you can avoid various compatibility problems and increase the chances that the memory will work in dual-channel mode. To do this, the following conditions must be met, in order of importance.

1. The memory type must match (DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR3L, DDR4).
2. The supply voltage for all strips must be the same.
3. All planks must be single-sided or double-sided.
4. The frequency of all bars must match.
5. All strips must be of the same volume (for dual-channel mode).
6. The number of strips must be even: 2, 4 (for dual-channel mode).
7. It is desirable that the latency (CL) matches.
8. It is desirable that the strips are from the same manufacturer.

The easiest place to start choosing is with the manufacturer. Choose from the online store catalog strips of the same manufacturer, volume and frequency as those installed in yours. Make sure that the supply voltage matches and check with your consultant whether they are single-sided or double-sided. If the latency also matches, then generally good.

If you were unable to find strips from the same manufacturer with similar characteristics, then choose all the others from the list of recommended ones. Then again look for strips of the required volume and frequency, check the supply voltage and check whether they are single-sided or double-sided. If you are unable to find similar planks, then look in another store, catalog or ad site.

The best option is always to sell all the old memory and buy 2 new identical sticks. If the motherboard does not support the brackets of the required volume, you may have to buy 4 identical brackets.

13. Setting up filters in the online store

1. Go to the “RAM” section on the seller’s website.
2. Select recommended manufacturers.
3. Select the form factor (DIMM - PC, SO-DIMM - laptop).
4. Select the memory type (DDR3, DDR3L, DDR4).
5. Select the required volume of slats (2, 4, 8 GB).
6. Select the maximum frequency supported by the processor (1600, 1866, 2133, 2400 MHz).
7. If your motherboard supports XMP, add higher frequency memory (2666, 3000 MHz) to the selection.
8. Sort the selection by price.
9. Consistently look through all items, starting with the cheapest ones.
10. Select several strips that match the frequency.
11. If the price difference is acceptable to you, take sticks with a higher frequency and lower latency (CL).

Thus, you will get the optimal price/quality/speed ratio of memory at the lowest possible cost.

14. Links

RAM Corsair CMK16GX4M2A2400C16
RAM Corsair CMK8GX4M2A2400C16
RAM Crucial CT2K4G4DFS824A

Almost any computer equipment includes two types of memory. Permanent (non-volatile) memory is used to store MP3 songs, photos, videos, documents and other important files. What is the difference between RAM? What does RAM affect, how many gigabytes does a modern smartphone need? This article will answer all these questions.

Any smartphone consists of many components. The biggest impact on the performance of the operating system is central processing unit (CPU). The second place in this ranking is definitely random access memory (RAM). If this component is very slow, and the free space is very low, then the system and most applications will experience stuttering. As an example, let's remember the very first Symbian-based smartphones, the amount of RAM in which was measured in a few megabytes. On those devices, it was almost impossible to pause music playback to answer an incoming call - when returning to the music player, the track would start over again, since there was not enough space in the RAM to store the current position.

The main difference between RAM and permanent memory is volatility. When the power is turned off, the RAM is reset to zero. But this type of memory is much faster than ROM.

Both then and now, RAM is divided into several conventional sections:

• System- here is the operating system (Android, iOS), as well as all sorts of service modules pre-installed by the smartphone manufacturer. A branded shell may also be present in this segment. It is the system section that is filled with information first. The faster the memory used in the device, the faster the operating system loads.
• Custom- this memory is available after the loading of the OS finishes. It is in this section that the executive files of various applications are contained - Internet browser, instant messengers and others. Also here, add-ons for firmware may gradually appear here, released by the gadget manufacturer in the form of updates.
• Available- a small section reserved by the operating system. This “reservation” is needed to prevent problematic situations and quickly launch new applications.

What does RAM affect?

What benefits does a user get if a smartphone has an increased amount of RAM? On such a device, more applications can run in the background. That is, the Internet browser will not load the page from scratch if you return to it after visiting many other programs. Also, with a large amount of RAM, a huge number of instant messengers, a torrent client and other types of applications can work in the background. But the performance of the operating system itself depends not so much on the volume as on the speed characteristics of the RAM. Affects the operation of Android or iOS OS and optimization of the operating system.

Bill Gates once said that 640 KB of RAM is enough for any computer. Now, even a mobile operating system requires approximately 1 GB, and to this you also need to add a proprietary shell and applications that are then installed. And if the code is poorly optimized, then slowdowns and freezes will occur in any case. A good example is smartphones released before 2015. There was a sufficient amount of RAM in such devices, but the cumbersome and unoptimized interface literally forced the gadget to slow down from time to time.

The battery life depends on the amount of RAM. Everything here is banal. A large number of background processes loads the CPU quite heavily. And this, in turn, entails increased energy consumption. Smartphone manufacturers are fighting this with a thinner chipset process technology, a larger battery, and better optimization of pre-installed software.

How much RAM does a smartphone need?

As mentioned above, the Android operating system can take up from 512 MB to 1 GB of RAM. Also, RAM is needed for those applications that will be installed as the device is used. This means that now you should not buy a smartphone that contains less than 2 GB of RAM. And this is already the minimum parameter! If you need to buy a device that will definitely not unload recently launched applications from memory, then you need to think about a device whose characteristics include 4 GB or even more RAM.

Please note that you shouldn’t overdo it either. RAM is just a marketing ploy. Android simply cannot yet consume such a huge amount. Only future versions of the operating system will learn to do this, which will quite possibly never arrive on the selected device.

How to free up RAM?

Many smartphone owners think that to free up RAM they just need to open the list of previously running applications and then click “Close all”. In part, this really helps to free up some RAM, which will help, for example, run the game better. But sometimes more effective methods are required.

Many branded shells have built-in tools for freeing up RAM. Applications can be unloaded from it automatically, once every certain period of time. But much more often you have to free up memory manually. Let's consider the user's actions using the example of a smartphone from the company:

Step 1. Go to " Settings».

Step 2. Click on the item " Optimization».

Step 3. Wait until the device check is completed, then click on the “ RAM" Or click on the button " Optimize"if you want to free up permanent memory at the same time.

Step 4. An additional check will be launched in the “RAM” subsection. Then you need to press the button " Clear" The system will first tell you exactly how much RAM will be freed.

On smartphones and tablets from other companies, the built-in optimizer utility may be located somewhere in the menu; in this case, visiting “Settings” is not required. There are proprietary shells without a built-in ability to free up RAM. Fortunately, no one is stopping the user from downloading a special application from Google Play that does the same thing. There is a separate article on the site about - all you have to do is choose the appropriate option. Let's try to download and install CCleaner.

Step 1. Launch the installed application. When starting for the first time, you will need to press the " Begin».

Step 2. The program may also offer to upgrade to a paid version. It is devoid of advertising and supplemented with some useful features. If you don’t want to spend money yet, then click the “ Continue for free».

Step 3. The main window of the application indicates the filled amount of ROM and RAM. In order for the program to understand exactly how much volume can be freed, you should click the “ Analysis».

Step 4. When launched for the first time on the latest versions of Android, a warning will appear stating that the utility requires permissions to work with certain sections of the operating system. Click the button Clear" and provide the requested permissions.

Step 5. The analysis can take quite a long time - it all depends on how long ago CCleaner was last launched. When the process is completed, you need to check the boxes next to those elements that can be deleted from permanent and RAM memory. After this, all you have to do is press the “ Clear».

Step 6. In the future, you can order the program to automatically clear RAM and ROM. This is done in a separate section. However, to activate this feature you will need to purchase a paid version of the application.

Clearing RAM in modern versions of Android is rarely required. Basically, this action may be needed before starting some very heavy game. In general, you don't have to think about RAM if the amount of this type of memory is equal to or greater than 4 GB.