What is computer RAM? Types of RAM on the market today

When choosing to buy a phone, tablet or laptop, RAM is a part that many people are interested in. However, not all users understand what computer RAM parameters are , what functions it has in the operation of the device and how to classify the types of computer RAM?

What is computer RAM?

- RAM (Random Access Memory) is random access memory. When the laptop software starts, data will be transferred from the hard drive to RAM and transferred to the CPU for processing, and saved back to the hard drive because RAM is many times faster than the hard drive.

- Data on RAM will be stored on each memory cell and each memory cell has a different address. In addition, the time to read and write data on the same memory cell is equal.

The capacity of computer RAM is usually much smaller than the capacity of HDD, SSD. The highest capacity of Smartphone RAM to date is 12Gb while the largest capacity computer RAM bar today is 1 bar of Samsung RAM: ECC REG DR4 128Gb/2666 (April 2019)

The role of computer RAM

The main functions of computer RAM include opening programs, surfing the web or reproducing modern games. The computer will perform the simplest tasks when it has this memory. The more memory, the faster and smoother the computer will run. However, at some point, adding more RAM is redundant.

When you turn on the computer, open Excel, and start working, you have already used this memory. You can load and run programs, or switch between programs. Any activity on the computer always uses this temporary memory.

In general, computer RAM is where the computer stores short-term data (only stored while the computer is running). The more software you have, the more RAM you should have.

Types of computer RAM today

RAM – is a parameter that greatly affects the performance of the computer. Based on the structure and type of machine, RAM is classified into the following types:

- Classification by structure: divided into 2 types:

Static RAM: Also known as SRAM, this type of RAM is produced based on ECL electrochemical luminescence technology. RAM memory is very fast and especially does not lose content once loaded.

Dynamic RAM: also known as DRAM, is applied with MOS technology. With this type of RAM, data storage depends on the process of maintaining the charge on the capacitor. After turning off the computer, the RAM memory will be completely erased.

- RAM is classified according to each type of computer: Currently, most types of RAM equipped on laptops are dynamic RAM with some of the most popular and most chosen types being:

SDR: This type of RAM has limited memory and is also a bit slow, so it is no longer used. 

DDR: it was produced after SDR with twice the processing speed, has larger memory, but is not very popular now. 

DDR2: has very high memory, integrated with power saving function, so around 2005-2008 it is very popular today. 

DDR3: This is one of the most popular types of RAM, it has greatly improved data retrieval speed, memory with power saving ability.

DDR3L: This is the type of Ram that is suitable for high-end devices, and also has the ability to save power optimally, so it helps battery life last much longer.

DDR4: This is the most powerful type of computer RAM today, with high bus speed, providing high work efficiency.

How much RAM is enough?

In addition to the most basic information about what computer RAM is, its functions and classification, we invite you to the following information on how much RAM capacity is enough.

- Regular laptops are equipped with a minimum of 2GB of RAM, more modern computers can go up to 8GB, some more expensive laptops are equipped with 12GB to 16GB of RAM.

- The minimum RAM level (2GB) will be suitable for simple tasks such as web browsing, email, watching videos or playing some light games. 4GB RAM is the minimum RAM level that a Windows or OS X laptop can meet the needs of most users today.

- With 8GB RAM memory, it will meet most of the user's needs and if the RAM capacity is larger than these numbers, it is usually to meet the user's work and passion such as playing 3D games or doing graphics,.

- For phones, more or less RAM depends on the user's needs. 

+ For needs that only need to meet common tasks such as listening, calling, surfing the web, watching movies or even playing some light games, 2GB to 3GB of RAM is more than enough.

+ For customers with higher needs such as operating heavy applications or playing games with medium graphics or higher, RAM of at least 4GB or more is most reasonable.

With information about what is computer RAM as well as classification of computer RAM, hopefully you will have answers to your concerns. Come to TipsMake to choose genuine products at the most reasonable prices on the market today!

David Pac

Update 16 January 2025