The main memory, also called RAM memory, is the short-term memory of a computer. In contrast to a hard disk, which stores data for a long time, the data in a RAM only remains stored until the computer is switched off again. If the computer repeatedly reaches its limits with complex programs or several programs at the same time, then too little RAM is usually the problem. Many Windows crashes can be traced back to this. If the memory test with the Windows Memory Diagnostics test tool reveals this, there’s a good option: expand the RAM. The RAM can be expanded with identical or non-identical RAM bars, which are available from many renowned manufacturers.
The following working memory comparison presents 9 modern RAM bars and compares them in terms of factors such as performance, speed and compatibility. A subsequent guide deals in detail with the functionality of RAM memories, the different memory types and the correct installation of the small bars. A FAQ section of the buyer’s guide provides competent answers to questions that are always asked in relation to RAM memory. Finally, here’s a look at whether Stiftung Warentest oroko-Test has already conducted a RAM test and if so, how the products fared there.
9 RAM for desktop PCs in a big comparison
XMP 2.0
Four colors
Set of 8
Camouflage
3.000 megahertz
RGB lighting
For laptops
XMP 1.3
Ballistix M.O.D
More practical products around the computer in the big comparison on STERN.en
1. Corsair Vengeance LPX CMK16GX4M2B3000C15 main memory- Fourth generation DDR module
The Corsair Vengeance LPX CMK16GX4M2B3000C15 working memory consists of two RAM bars with a memory capacity of 8 gigabytes (GB) each and a clock frequency of 3.000 megahertz (MHz). Alternatively, the working memory is available as a variant with one or four bars, a memory capacity of 16 or 32 gigabytes (GB) and a clock frequency of 2 GHz.400, 3.200 or 3.600 megahertz available. RAM memory is optimized for Intel X99, 100-series and 200-series motherboards. The so-called "XMP-2.0" support is supposed to ensure automatic and interference-free transmission. Installation is supposed to be very easy due to the flat design.
Each module of the Vengeance LPX series consists of an eight-layer PCB and carefully tested memory ICs. The SPD latency in the model here is 15-15-15-36. According to the manufacturer, the maximum operating temperature is 85 degrees Celsius. The unique design of the heat spreader is said to optimally dissipate heat from the memory ICs into the system’s cooling path, making it even more stress resistant. According to the manufacturer, the memory has been tested for low power consumption and maximum compatibility.
- High clock frequency of 3.000 megahertz
- Available with four different clock frequencies (2.400, 3.000, 3.200 or 3.600 megahertz)
- Available in three sizes (8, 16 or 32 gigabytes)
- XMP-2.0 support for automatic and interference-free data transfer
- Available in three colors (black, white and red)
- No disadvantages apparent
2. Kingston HyperX HX316C10K2/8 Fury working memory for Intel or AMD hardware
The Kingston HyperX HX316C10K2/8 Fury RAM is offered in a set of two and is a conventional DDR3 RAM for desktop PCs. Both memory bars have 4 gigabytes of memory each, their clock rates are in a range between 1 and 16 GHz.333 and 1.866 megahertz with a required connection voltage of 1.5 volts. Alternatively, the RAM memory is also available as a single bar or with a memory capacity of 4 or 16 gigabytes. There are four color designs to choose from: red, black, blue and white. Kingston states a maximum operating temperature of 85 degrees Celsius.
According to the manufacturer, the asymmetrically designed heat sink ensures good heat dissipation and gives the RAM bars an interesting shape. The HyperX Fury is supposed to be the right RAM for both Intel and AMD gamers. It has been tested on all common motherboard brands, according to the manufacturer, to ensure it works flawlessly everywhere. The bars from the comparison weigh 90 grams and measure 13.3 centimeters long x 3.28 centimeters high x 0.71 centimeters wide.
- Available in two sizes (4 or 16 gigabytes)
- Available with two different clock frequencies (1.333 or 1.866 megahertz)
- Available in four colors (black, white, Blue and Red)
- DDR3 version
3. Corsair Vengeance LPX CMK16GX4M2A2400C14 main memory with 2.400 megahertz
The Corsair Vengeance LPX CMK16GX4M2A2400C14 RAM is a modern DDR4 RAM memory, which in the model described here consists of two RAM modules with a memory capacity of 8 gigabytes each. Alternatively, the model is available as a set of four or individually with a memory capacity of 4 or 16 gigabytes (GB). As an 8 gigabyte variant, the RAM is available from the manufacturer itself as an eight module set. The model described here is limited to 2.400 megahertz (MHz) clocked, alternatively six different frequencies are available in a range of 2.400 to 3.600 megahertz to choose from.
The working memory belongs to the fourth DDR generation and was launched in 2015. According to the manufacturer, the RAM memory is compatible with the X99, 100 and 200 series Intel mainboards. The power consumption is supposed to be kept within limits, since the RAM needs a voltage of only 1.2 volts. The manufacturer states a maximum temperature of 85 deg. The small form factor should make the product ideal for smaller cases.
- Available in two clock frequencies (2.400 or 3.600 megahertz)
- Available as a set of 4 or 8
- Available in two sizes (4 or 16 gigabytes)
- XMP-2.0 support for automatic and interference-free data transfer
- No disadvantages apparent
4. Crucial Ballistix Sport LT BLS4K8G4D240FSC working memory with 4× 8 gigabytes
The Crucial Ballistix Sport LT BLS4K8G4D240FSC RAM is a model of the fourth DDR generation, which was launched in 2018. According to the manufacturer, it is suitable for users who want to run very demanding programs or several applications simultaneously. The model described here consists of four RAM sticks with a storage capacity of 8 gigabytes each. It has a clock speed of 2.400 megahertz. The RAM is available in many other types upon request:
- Number of RAM sticks: single, two-pack, four-pack
- Memory capacity: 4 gigabytes, 8 gigabytes, 16 gigabytes as single sticks, combos up to a maximum of 32 gigabytes
- Clock frequency: 2.400 megahertz, 2.666 megahertz, 3.000 megahertz
With the Intel XMP 2.0 profiles, according to the manufacturer, uncomplicated configuration is ensured. The manufacturer’s recommended maximum operating temperature is 85 degrees Celsius. Due to the special design, the cooling should prove to be particularly effective. The working memory is primarily compatible with Intel motherboards, as it has been optimized for such devices. It is also available for AMD Ryzen processors since the latest generation. A stick measures 13.34 centimeters long x 3.3 centimeters high x 0.56 centimeters wide. The total construct weighs 172.37 grams.
- Available with three different clock frequencies (2.400, 2.666 or 3.000 megahertz)
- Available in sets of 2, 4, or 8
- Available in three sizes /4, 8 or 16 gigabytes)
- XMP-2.0 support for automatic and interference-free data transfer
- Optimized for Intel mainboards
- Camouflage look
- No disadvantages apparent
5. Corsair Vengeance LPX CMK16GX4M2B3000C15R working memory with XMP-2.0 support
The Corsair Vengeance LPX CMK16GX4M2B3000C15R working memory consists of a set of two RAM modules with a storage capacity of 8 gigabytes each. The clock frequency is 3 per bar.000 megahertz (MHz). According to the manufacturer, the working memory with these requirements allows several applications to be used at the same time or very computationally intensive programs without any problems. The model is available on request either as a single variant, set of two, set of four or set of eight with capacities of 4, 8, 16 or 32 gigabytes. Regarding the maximum clock frequency, the manufacturer offers six levels between 2.400 and 4.600 megahertz (MHz) on.
Thanks to the XMP 2.0 support is said to provide for flawless and automatic overclocking. The RAM operates at CD15-17-17-35 memory latency and has 288 contacts to connect to the computer’s motherboard. According to the manufacturer, a voltage of 1.35 volts is required for proper use of the device. Due to the special design of the Vengeance-LPX-The heat distributor optimally conducts the heat from the memory ICs into the cooling path of the RAM. According to the manufacturer, the RAM has been tested several times for maximum compatibility.
- High clock frequency of 3.000 megahertz
- Available with five different clock frequencies (2.133, 2.400, 2.666, 3.000 or 3.200 megahertz)
- Available in sets of 2, 4 or 8
- Available in four sizes (4, 8, 16 or 32 gigabytes)
- XMP-2.0 support for automatic and interference-free data transfer
- Optimized for Intel mainboards
- Available in four colors (black, white, Blue and red)
- No disadvantages apparent
6. Crucial Ballistix Tactical Tracer BLT4K16G4D30BET4 working memory with LED illumination
The Crucial Ballistix Tactical Tracer BLT4K16G4D30BET4 working memory is offered in the variant described here as a four-pack with four RAM bars with a memory capacity of 16 gigabytes each resulting in a total of 64 gigabytes. The manufacturer specifies the clock rate with 3.000 megahertz. The RAM is said to be suitable for both Intel and AMD Ryzen processors. The RAM memory is available in different variants on request:
- Number of RAM bars: Single, two-pack, four-pack
- Memory capacity: 8 gigabytes and 16 gigabytes, in combination up to 64 gigabytes possible
- Clock frequency: 2.666 megahertz or 3.000 megahertz
The working memory is part of the fourth DDR generation and was launched in 2018. The power consumption turns out relatively low with 1.2 volts. According to the manufacturer, an operating temperature of 85 degrees Celsius should not be exceeded in long-term use. The compatibility of the RAM has been optimized for Asus, MSI and Gigabyte products. Dimensions are 13.4 centimeters long x 4.1 centimeters high x 0.63 centimeters wide and weight is 45 grams.
- Available with two different clock frequencies (2.666oor 3.000 megahertz)
- Available in two sizes (8 and 16 gigabytes)
- Available as a set of 2 or 4
- Optimized for Asus, MSI and Gigabyte mainboards
- RGB lighting
- No disadvantages apparent
7. Crucial CT102464BF160B main memory- RAM module for laptops
According to the manufacturer, the Crucial CT102464BF160B working memory is a so-called SO-DIMM memory for installation in laptops, not desktop PCs. The variant described here is supplied as a single RAM bar with a memory capacity of 8 gigabytes and a clock frequency of 1 GHz.600 megahertz offered. According to the manufacturer, a voltage of 1.35 volts is required for proper operation. The manufacturer also recommends a permanent operating temperature of less than 85 degrees Celsius. On request, the module can be purchased in sets of two and with 2, 4 or 16 gigabytes. Also an alternative clock frequency of 1.866 megahertz (MHz) is available.
Since there is usually very little space available for the hardware in a laptop case, the manufacturer has opted for a compact design with slim dimensions of 7.3 centimeters long x 3.0 centimeters high x 0.2 centimeters wide and a weight of 9.07 grams. According to the manufacturer, the RAM is also compatible with OEM systems. It has a typical green color scheme and comes without a heatspreader, i.e. an aluminum heat spreader.
- Working memory for laptops
- Paging function for faster hard disk access
- Available with two different clock frequencies (1.600 or 1.866 megahertz)
- Available in three sizes (2, 4 and 16 gigabytes)
- Available as 2-set
- Not suitable for desktop PCs
- Without heat distributor
8. Corsair Vengeance Pro Series CMY16GX3M2A1600C9 Memory- DDR3 RAM from 2013
The Corsair Vengeance Pro Series CMY16GX3M2A1600C9 RAM consists of two RAM bars, each of which has a storage capacity of 8 gigabytes and a clock frequency of 1.600 megahertz have. The power consumption is 1.5 volts, the manufacturer specifies the recommended operating temperature with a maximum of 85 degrees Celsius. Other choices regarding memory capacity, number of RAM modules or clock frequency are not given. The working memory is equipped with XMP-1.3 profiles, which should enable reliable, automatic overclocking.
According to the manufacturer, the model can convince with its special design. The eight-layer circuit board is supposed to provide a high cooling effect and at the same time give the RAM bars an extraordinary look. The RAM modules work with the memory latency CL9-9-24 and have 240 contacts for the connection to the motherboard. For more effective heat dissipation, the RAM is equipped with an aluminum heat spreader. The memory is available in a red, black, blue or gold color design.
- Eight-layer circuit board and aluminum heat spreader for strong cooling effect
- XMP-1.3 support for easier overclocking
- Available in four colors (black, gold, blue and red)
- Only available with one clock frequency (1.600 megahertz)
- DDR3 version
9. Crucial Ballistix Elite BLE8G4D36BEEAK memory for gamers
The Crucial Ballistix Elite BLE8G4D36BEEAK working memory is in the described variant a single stick with a memory size of 8 gigabytes and a clock frequency of 3 GHz.600 megahertz. It is designed to meet the needs and requirements of gamers. The RAM memory has the memory latency CL15 and is available on request with the same latency as a set of two with 8 gigabytes of memory each or a clock frequency of 4 GHz.000 megahertz available. Further versions, even as a set of four with a total of 32 gigabytes, are also available with the memory latency CL18.
According to the manufacturer, the memory module operates at faster speeds and responsiveness than standard DDR4 memory. An exclusive Ballistix-M.O.D.-Auxiliary program and heat sensors should enable real-time temperature monitoring, and the memory can also be overclocked without problems with the appropriate motherboard and BIOS. The memory is optimized for the latest Intel platforms, but according to the manufacturer, it is also suitable for AMD Ryzen processors.
- Ballistix-M.O.D.-Utility and thermal sensor for real-time temperature monitoring and easier overclocking
- High clock frequency of 3.600 megahertz
- Available with two different clock frequencies (3.600 and 4.000 megahertz)
- Available as a set of 2 or 4
- Optimized for Intel mainboards
- No disadvantages apparent
What is a RAM?
The main processor or CPU, short for "central processing unit", of a computer is often referred to in specialist circles as the brain of the PC. Following this terminology, the main memory serves as the computer’s short-term memory. As a component of the central processing unit, RAM is the part of the computer that the processor must constantly access during operation. All running processes are stored in it.
In other words: The more RAM is available, the more or the more complex processes can run simultaneously. Besides the processors, the RAM is crucial for the overall performance and working speed of a computer. This plays an important role for gamers, for example, who still have to run other programs such as communication software and so on while playing a computationally intensive game. run.
The main memory is often referred to as RAM memory in specialist circles. The term RAM comes from the English and stands for "random access memory". How much RAM memory a PC user needs depends on his usage behavior. An office PC for common office programs makes significantly fewer demands on the main memory than a gaming computer or a PC for cutting or editing audio and video files. In the first scenario, 4 gigabytes are usually sufficient, 8 gigabytes of RAM are better. In the second case, it should be 16 gigabytes, 32 or even 64 gigabytes of RAM are better if 4K videos are to be edited.
Unlike a normal hard disk, RAM memory only stores the data it contains until the computer is switched off. The main memory is therefore sometimes also referred to as "volatile memory". It has transfer rates up to 250 times faster than an external or internal hard disk and is known as "main memory" or "fast memory" among other things. RAM memory should not be confused with hard drives, as they don’t have much to do with each other, even though both store data.
In the computer, the RAM sits in the so-called mainboard, also known as motherboard or motherboard. There are pre-installed RAM slots there. How much RAM a computer can be upgraded with depends on how many slots the installed mainboard has.
When should a working memory be upgraded?
If your own computer repeatedly reaches its performance limits in everyday use and causes errors or crashes, it’s time to provide it with new RAM capacity. Many users ask themselves how they can determine that the working memory is being used too much. This is relatively easy: Under Windows, the Task Manager can be called up with the key combination Ctrl + Alt + Del. Under the "Performance" tab, the workloads of the individual hardware components can be viewed.
However, a one-time look does not yet provide reliable data. In order to obtain meaningful results, the computer must be monitored every day during everyday use over a period of one week. If the workload is more than 80 or 90 percent every day, it makes sense to think about upgrading the RAM. However, it should always be taken into account that the simultaneous use of different programs has a high influence on the RAM load. The memory test with the Windows memory diagnostics test tool also makes sense to reveal the reason for the errors. An alternative to memory diagnostics is the freeware MemTest. MemTest also checks the working memory for errors. MemTest can test the memory reliability over a longer period of time.
Important characteristics of RAM memory
RAM for the PC is sold in elongated RAM modules. They differ in terms of memory size, memory type and memory speed:
- memory size: Most memory modules on the market are offered individually or as so-called memory kits. Kits are available in sizes from 4 to 8 gigabytes per plug-in module. ÄOlder models from the early 2000s are available in smaller sizes of one or 2 gigabytes, if they can still be found. The rule of thumb is: the more RAM memory, the better.
- Memory type: Manufacturers bring new memory generations onto the market in rapid succession, which are becoming ever larger, faster and more power-efficient. However, computers are long-lived devices and cannot be upgraded indefinitely. Therefore, regardless of the state of the art, memory modules are often needed that are actually considered obsolete.
- Memory speed: The tempo of a working memory indicates the clock frequency. This is the speed at which the CPU unit can access the RAM memory. Current memory modules achieve clock frequencies of up to 3.000 megahertz, in some cases the peak values are even higher. Outdated alternatives that can still be found on the market are in the range of 800 to 2.400 megahertz. ÄOlder models, which were installed in PCs between the years 2000 and 2008, are sometimes significantly below this level.
It should always be noted that models of a certain generation cannot be installed in computers whose mainboards are designed for the previous generation. For example, the common RAM type DDR3 is not backward compatible. The RAM to be retrofitted must therefore correspond to the RAM modules already installed in the PC. The FAQ section below explains how users find out which memory modules they have installed.
Interesting facts about the history of the DDR working memory
The emergence of modern working memory began shortly before the turn of the millennium. From the middle of 1999 onwards, well-known IT manufacturers tried to bring new techniques for main memory onto the market. However, the attempts quickly failed, whereby the manufacturers concentrated more and more on DDR modules instead, which were already on the rise at that time.
Only in 2002 the new technology with the DDR modules was accepted by the buyers. Since then, performance has continued to increase- a success of modern DDR modules was programmed. In the course of time, not only the requirements for memory capacity increased, but also for the clock frequency of the individual modules. The increasingly complex systems and programs required consistent further development.
In the first years the manufacturers could still meet the requirements of the users with their further developments. However, this changed due to the massive limitations of the technology previously used. Both the speed and the memory capacity could no longer be increased due to the technology used.
It was time to bring new standards and modules for RAM to the market. With the DDR2 standard, this succeeded. It became widespread in both normal desktop PCs and notebooks. With up to four individual modules and a much higher clock frequency, DDR2 RAM has found its way into many computers.
The following generation of RAM, the DDR3 RAM, is still used in numerous PCs today. The ability to combine many modules together allows high performance and large memory capacity to be achieved. DDR4 memory finally came onto the market in 2014. It quickly established itself due to the high-quality modules, a constant development of the clock frequency and a high memory capacity.
What types of RAM are there?
There are the following types of RAM:
- DDR4 RAM
- DDR3 RAM
- DDR2 RAM
- SO-DIMM
The abbreviation DDR in this context is sometimes misinterpreted. It stands for "Double Data Rate" and has nothing to do with the former German Democratic Republic.
DDR4 RAM
DDR4 RAM is the latest version of RAM, which first appeared on the market in 2012, but only became firmly established in 2014. A DDR4 RAM usually has 288 contacts for connection to the motherboard for the desktop version and 260 contacts for the laptop version. DDR4 RAM operates at a lower voltage of 1.2 or 1.35 volts compared to other models, which should enable higher clock rates and faster access to cached data.
The data processing rate is 12.800 to 25.600 megabytes per second and more. The memory bars are offered in 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64 gigabytes. DDR4 is also the first RAM version that works with the so-called chip stacking technology. It makes it possible to stack up to eight memory layers on top of each other to achieve a higher memory capacity and better signal strengths.
- Chip stacking technology
- Powerful and energy-efficient
- Improved memory capacity and signal quality
- Most expensive to buy
DDR3 RAM
DDR3 RAM is the direct successor to DDR2 RAM and is still used in many computers today. Transfer rates of 6.400 to 19.Reaches 200 megabytes per second. The number of contacts is 240 for desktop PCs and 204 for laptops. Due to their low acquisition costs, DDR3 modules are interesting for many gaming and multimedia applications. They are usually offered in the form of 4-, 8- or 16-gigabyte bars.
- Much faster than DDR2 RAM
- Can be used for mobile devices
- Lower voltage consumption than DDR2
- Compatible with most motherboards
- Slower than DDR4
- Less future-oriented than DDR4 RAM
- More expensive to purchase than DDR2
DDR2 RAM
DDR2 RAM came onto the market in 2005 as the successor to conventional DDR RAM. Like the DDR3 RAM, it has 240 contacts for the connection to the motherboard, but is not compatible with the newer RAM version. The transfer rates are around 3.200 to 8.500 megabytes per second. DDR2 RAM is mostly offered in 2-, 4- and 8-gigabyte modules, but is hardly ever found on the market today.
- Very inexpensive
- Low performance in comparison
- Hardly ever found
- Low compatibility with end devices
SO-DIMM
All RAM modules for conventional desktop PCs follow the DIMM design. SO-DIMM stands for "Small-Outline-Dual-Inline-Memory-Module" and describes a main memory technology that was especially developed for notebooks and laptops. It is a subcategory of its own, which is offered as DDR2, DDR3 and DDR4 working memory. The difference to normal RAM sticks is the significantly smaller size of the modules, since they have to fit into the narrow case of laptops.
- Suitable for notebooks and laptops
- Not compatible with desktop PCs
- Not suitable for all laptops
- Limited availability and low supply
Important buying criteria for working memory
alt="Working memory comparison width="500" height="500" />There are a few things to consider when buying new RAM. These include:
- Type of construction: The first thing to do is to make sure that the new RAM will fit in the computer. For this, attention must be paid to the design, which is divided into DIMM and SO-DIMM. Memory modules with DIMM design are suitable for mainboards of normal desktop PCs, while the more compact SO-DIMM modules are intended for the mainboards of mini PCs and laptops. You should also pay attention to the number of available contacts, as there are differences between DDR3 and DDR4 RAM here. Precise information about which RAM modules are compatible can be found in the manual of the computer or mainboard.
- RAM type: DDR2 modules are hardly available on the market today, so only DDR3 RAM and DDR4 RAM come into question. The DDR3 version works a bit slower, but can be had at a low price in return. If you want to get the most out of your computer, you should spend more money and invest in a DDR4 RAM. The type of available slots on the mainboard is also important, because DDR3 RAM cannot be used in a DDR4 slot.
- Memory capacity: How high the memory capacity of a new RAM module should be depends on the personal usage behavior. Much more RAM is required for computationally intensive programs or computer games than for normal office applications. Most users get by with a memory capacity of 8 to 16 gigabytes without any problems. Most computers can’t use more than 32 or 64 gigabytes anyway.
- Memory latency: The memory latency indicates how often the working memory transmits data to the processor per clock cycle. The value is often specified by manufacturers as CL or "Column-Strobe-Latency". The following applies: The lower the memory latency, the faster the RAM reacts. A RAM with CL5 is therefore slower than a RAM with CL2.
- Number of RAM modules: Most motherboards have four slots for RAM modules. However, there are also computers with more or fewer slots. A look in the manual of the motherboard should answer all questions about it. It makes sense to purchase all memory sticks from the same manufacturer. This minimizes the risk of technical difficulties. Who decides nevertheless for modules of different Herstellererr, should have in the back of the head that the computer always adapts to the slowest hardware.
- Clock frequency: The clock frequency of a RAM memory indicates the access time in which stored data can be transferred. The value is given in the unit megatransfers per second, or MT/s for short. Most manufacturers often also use the unit megahertz to indicate the speed. It is important that the clock frequency of the RAM corresponds to the operating speed of the processor. A corresponding table can usually be found in the manual of the processor or computer.
- Dimensions: Before buying, tinkerers should get an overview of how much space is available in the computer’s case. Otherwise, there is a risk that the working memory has the right connections, but is too big is to be installed in the PC. This aspect plays a role predominantly with laptops and notebooks, less frequently with desktop PCs.
- Voltage: The electrical voltage in volts at which the main memory operates plays a role when it is to be overclocked. Voltage and clock rate are closely related to each other and should always be well coordinated. The correct ratio of the two values is usually set automatically by the mainboard via the SPD-ROM chip. ÜThe value can also be manually readjusted via the BIOS of the PC.
How to properly install RAM memory?
Contrary to most expectations, installing a new RAM bar isn’t witchcraft. However, do-it-yourselfers should keep a few things in mind during installation:
- In the first step, the computer should be turned off, disconnected from the power and grounded to a radiator, for example.
- The computer is then opened to get an overview of the system. It is important to find the slot for the working memory on the motherboard.
- If necessary, remove the old RAM modules by loosening the small safety levers at the end of the respective rail and then gently pulling out the RAM.
- Now the new RAMs are inserted carefully, paying attention to the click of the safety lever. Only after clicking does the new RAM make contact with the motherboard or mainboard and is installed correctly.
- The computer should then be restarted and the Task Manager or Computer Management should be checked to see if the correct memory capacity of the new RAM is displayed.
- If everything is as it should be, the computer is finally switched off, disconnected from the power supply, grounded and then screwed back on again properly.
An overview of leading manufacturers and brands
As with almost all products, there are also a few manufacturers that have been able to establish themselves as market leaders when it comes to working memory.
- Corsair: Founded in 1994, the US company Corsair specializes in high-performance RAM modules, which are primarily popular among gamers. In the meantime, the manufacturer also sells working memory in the lower price ranges under the product name "ValueSelect. The company is based in Fremont in the US state of California and went public on the US tech exchange NASDAQ in September 2020.
- Kingston: "Kingston Technology" is a U.S. manufacturer of memory products, headquartered in Fountain Valley in the state of California. The company, founded in 1987, sells a wide range of computer hardware at relatively low prices. The first European branch was opened in 1995 in the Bavarian capital Munich. In 2017, the company reported sales of more than $10 billion for the first time ever. Many other branches followed. Today, Kingston Technology with its HyperX brand is considered one of the world’s leading independent memory manufacturers.
- Crucial: The semiconductor company now known as Crucial was founded in 1978 under the name "Micron Technology" and still belongs to that U.S. technology company headquartered in Boise in the state of Idaho. By their own admission, the manufacturer stands for expertise, compatibility and reliability. Crucial offers a wide range of memory modules, which has a lot in store for gamers as well as for the occasional computer user. Micron Technology says it employs over 30.000 employees and generates more than $30 billion in revenue per year.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about RAM
Which is the best RAM?
It depends on the requirements. For example, a gamer is usually looking for higher quality than a home office worker looking for a bit more memory for their laptop. Therefore, it is important to be clear about your own requirements before buying a RAM memory. Then you can take a look at this product comparison and crown your personal test winner.
Where to buy RAM?
A RAM can be purchased either at a local electronics store or on the Internet from an online retailer. If you have little experience with RAM memory and other PC components, you might find personal purchase advice from a trained staff in your local store helpful. Otherwise, online retailers have more advantages. They offer a huge choice of products that can be compared and there is access to hundreds of reviews and testimonials from other customers.
How much does RAM cost?
It all depends on the size and speed of the RAM memory. The bigger the RAM bar is, the higher its price will be. A single 4 gigabyte module is usually cheaper than two modules with 2 gigabytes each.
4 gigabytes of DDR3 type memory is usually between 70 and 100 euros. There are big outliers upwards or downwards, but most providers are somewhere in the price range mentioned above. DDR4 RAM bars are once again more expensive than DDR3 modules.
Which is more important: large or fast RAM memory?
It is difficult to separate the two. A higher clock frequency is always desirable, because a RAM memory is responsible for data that the computer needs to access temporarily. The larger the RAM memory, the more the system can swap it out. All the storage capacity in the world is useless, however, if the transfer rates or the access speed of the RAM is slow and slows down outsourcing.
The assumption that memory bars with 16 gigabyte capacity can clock slower than smaller modules is wrong. Therefore, you should always look for a good balance of speed and size. The existing system and one’s own wallet decide how fast and how big the RAM memory is.
Where does the specification for the working memory of a computer stand?
As already mentioned in the guide, many users do not know what memory they have on their computer. The oldest trick in the world is to simply open the computer- how this works has already been explained above- and to look up on the memory boards themselves. It is usually noted there what type of memory it is and how large it is and fast it is. This variant is recommended if the computer is no longer in factory condition or is second-hand.
Another convenient way is to use a program like CPU-Z, which can be downloaded here for free. Software can be used to read the RAM without having to dig around in manuals or the innards of the PC. If you run the program, you will find out all the important information about the installed memory, the DDR types, the clock speed, the size and the RAM slots still available in the computer.
Which RAM memory do games need?
This depends on the type of game and in which resolution and detail level is played. A general answer is therefore difficult. Meanwhile, 8 or already 16 gigabytes are the absolute standard in gaming PCs. If you have high demands on the graphics, you should spend more money and invest in a 16 gigabyte RAM. 32 gigabytes are rarely necessary to date- In expert circles it is debated whether 32 gigabytes bring any added value at all when gaming.
When in doubt, however, more RAM is never a bad thing- Especially for gamers who use a current and powerful graphics card, which does not slow down the RAM memory. Because games, like technology, continue to develop rapidly and with them the demands on the hardware.
What does dual channel mean?
In principle, a computer can only access one RAM module at a time. With the so-called dual-channel function, it is possible to use two RAM bars at the same time. For this, at least two RAM bricks have to be inserted into the same-colored slot of the motherboard. Ideally, the sticks are all from the same manufacturer and follow the same model.
How to empty the RAM?
The cooperation between CPU, working memory and operating system is usually so good that users do not have to intervene additionally. Even the opposite can be the case. Too often manually emptied working memory can lead to crashes or reduced performance. So, if the RAM is always and constantly full, it is more advisable to increase the RAM instead of interfering with the automatic processes.
If you still want to empty your RAM frequently for certain reasons, you should use RAM optimization programs. They are available both for Windows and macOS. Another solution would be to restart the PC, closing all applications. This also empties the working memory. After shutdown, the superfluously stored files are deleted and only the executed programs receive renewed resources.
Is there a working time test by Stiftung Warentest?
The experts at Stiftung Warentest have not yet conducted their own memory test. And there aren’t any other articles or guides worth mentioning on the subject of RAM memory and PC utilization on the consumer organization’s website either. Should this change, this guide will be updated accordingly.
Is there a working memory test fromoko-Test?
Technical topics are less in focus atoko-Test, which is why there is no working memory test byoko-Test or similar articles on this topic on the website that are interesting for the reader.