Differences Between DDR3 VS DDR4?
Well, First Things First, What is actually DDR? Many Of You Guys Know, What is RAM (Random Access Memory), on the other hand many of you guys don’t know what’s DDR? That’s Ok!
Double data rate synchronous dynamic random-access memory (DDR SDRAM) is a class of memory integrated circuits used in computers. DDR SDRAM, also called DDR1 SDRAM, has been superseded by DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM and DDR4 SDRAM.
Which type of RAM is best for me?
Not having enough RAM in your PC can truly wreck your day no matter what you’re trying to accomplish. If you’re in the market for more RAM, you might be wondering about the differences between DDR3 and DDR4 RAM, and whether or not they really matter to you.
Just a Quick Recap!
RAM explained:
The random-access memory (RAM) in your computer is used to hold data that is frequently accessed by your processor (CPU). It can be likened to your office where you have a corkboard with a bunch of papers on it for easy, quick reference.
Why use RAM when we have hard-disk drives (HDD) and solid-state drives (SSD)? Reading from and writing to a hard drive, even a solid-state drive, is much slower than reading from and writing to RAM. The connection between the CPU and the RAM, also know as the memory bus, is designed for speed, and the entire package uses a small amount of energy to do its job. Accessing a hard drive is sort of like standing up, opening a filing cabinet, and pulling out a paper — much slower than if the paper is already on a corkboard in front of you.
DDR3 and DDR4 RAM don’t work together:
The first noticeable difference between the two RAM-types is the physical layout of the pins on each module. DDR3 RAM uses a 240-pin connector, while DDR4 RAM uses a 288-pin connector.
Why are they different? A motherboard and CPU that work with DDR3 RAM don’t work with DDR4 RAM and vice versa. The different connectors ensure no one accidentally installs the wrong type of memory. Also, take note that not all RAM works with all processors, even if it fits into the motherboard. Take time to research and make sure all parts of your PC are compatible. If you need a hand, PC Part Picker has a wonderful tool that shows you what works together and what doesn’t.
You might also hear mention of DDR3L RAM. This RAM has the same pins and works with any CPU and motherboard that works with DDR3 RAM. The difference? DDR3L RAM can function at both 1.5V and 1.35V, while DDR3 RAM is stuck at 1.5V.
DDR4 RAM uses a lower voltage:
The standard voltage of DDR3 RAM sits at 1.5V, while DDR3L RAM can use both 1.35V and 1.5V. DDR4 RAM, on the other hand, uses 1.2V. While this isn’t a big difference for most of us using one or two RAM modules — you’re not going to see a difference on your electricity bill — server farms with thousands of RAM modules will definitely enjoy sucking less power.
DDR4 RAM costs more:
If we look at the prices of the Corsair Dominator Platinum RAM from the table above, it’s clear that even though the DDR3 RAM performs better when considering clock speed versus latency, it is still cheaper — DDR3 costs about $115, while DDR4 costs about $130. Again, this isn’t a huge difference if you’re only buying one or two modules, but in instances where you need a lot of RAM, the cost can really add up.
So…which RAM do I choose?
Going with DDR3 or DDR4 RAM really depends on what other hardware you’re currently using, and what hardware you plan on using in the future.
If you have an aging motherboard and a 4th- or 5th-generation Intel CPU, you’ll probably be going the route of DDR3 once you figure out all the compatibility stuff. If you have a recent motherboard and, say, a 6th-generation Intel CPU, DDR4 RAM is a good investment for the future — it’s hard to believe DDR4 RAM won’t be used for quite some time to come.
Which RAM do you use?
What are you running in your PC build? Were you able to go with DDR4, or are you still using DDR3? Tell us in the comments section below!
Hope This Helps!
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Information Brought To You By Biovolt Corporation.
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