Buying guide how to choose the right RAM and what should we pay attention to?

It cannot be denied that without the optimal amount of RAM, you can forget about using your computer comfortably. It is worth finding out how much RAM we will need for our applications. 

First of all, it’s size 

When choosing a set of RAM operating memory, we must take into account exactly what type of RAM will be compatible with our motherboard and what exactly the amount of memory we need at all. Additionally, there are several other parameters that are very important and should be taken into account. The first is undoubtedly the size. Regardless of the speed and type of memory, when thinking about building a new computer, we must assume that 4 GB is the absolute minimum. It will be a sufficient value if we intend to use our computer for office work. However, when the computer is also to be used to play computer games, from 8 to 16 GB of RAM is required. In turn, when we additionally deal with video processing and rendering, then the more memory we have, the better.

Types of RAM

In fact, we only have Double Data Ratio (DDR) memories. However, we can choose the version. We can choose between DDR3 and DDR4. The first of them are designed for older generations of motherboards. The newest ones, and so DDR4, are much more productive and are compatible with motherboards with the LGA 1151 socket. What is the difference between DDR3 and DDR4? the difference is the energy demand itself and the overall efficiency in favor of the new type. Additionally, the cost of a GB of DDR4 memory is much lower than that of DDR3.

Timingi

Timings are simply delays. These are special markings on each memory, for example 15-15-25-36 or 7-7-7-30. When choosing a memory, we should definitely look for the one with the highest frequency and the lowest possible latency. Timings that are low are useful for work that requires computation and work with rather small files. In turn, with games and multimedia, RAM with higher latencies works better.

Overclocking and cooling

Another parameter that is definitely worth paying attention to is overclocking. Thanks to it, we can improve the timings and frequency. Standard DDR3 modules are clocked at 1333 MHz. In the case of DDR4, it is 2133 MHz. Even if we decide to buy advertising modules as DDR4 3600 MHz, after installation they will run at the minimum speed, but only after making changes to the UEFI BIOS exactly, we will be able to unlock their higher performance. However, a motherboard that supports this memory clock speed is required for this. What about cooling? Part of the memory is offered with an additional heat radiator.

It is basically a heat sink that sits on top of the RAM, which helps us dissipate heat from the RAM chip a lot. Such cooling is required only and exclusively in extreme solutions and at high voltages. However, if we do not intend to make OCs, it is not worth buying them only because of their interesting appearance. It is also worth paying attention to whether the additional RAM heatsink will fit freely next to our processor cooling set or under it, because it may happen that we run out of half a centimeter of free space.

RAM ECC and memory brand

ECC technology is nothing but error correction. RAM memories marked with such an inscription are used mainly in server solutions where stable operation is required around the clock. For home use, do not look for them, unless you plan to build your own small server. Such RAM memories are really very expensive. Another important point is the brand of memory. The brand, as is well known, is important in probably every field. In all electronic devices, the brand is very important. It really matters. This also applies to RAM. We are always forced to pay extra for an additional logo or an additional inscription. In the case of RAM, we must be aware that basically all that are offered on the market are of rather high quality, and certainly of appropriate quality. A defective model can be found both for one hundred zlotys and five hundred zlotys. As you can see in the attached picture, the spread is quite large. However, the most important thing when choosing a manufacturer is the warranty itself.

Some well-known manufacturers give a two-year warranty, others give a three-year warranty. Sometimes we have the option of paying a few dozen zlotys to receive an unlimited guarantee. Then we are basically one hundred percent sure that no matter how much time has passed since the purchase, we will be able to advertise RAM. and others offer a three-year warranty. Sometimes we have the option of paying a few dozen zlotys to receive an unlimited guarantee. Then we are basically one hundred percent sure that no matter how much time has passed since the purchase, we will be able to advertise RAM. and others offer a three-year warranty.

Sometimes we have the option of paying a few dozen zlotys to receive an unlimited guarantee. Then we are basically one hundred percent sure that no matter how much time has passed since the purchase, we will be able to advertise RAM.

The choice of RAM memory is very large. Being aware of what to look for when buying RAM, it will be much easier for us to make the final choice.

Polish