DDR4 vs DDR5 RAM
RAM (Random Access Memory) is an essential component in any computer system. It provides fast-access storage for currently executing programs, data, and operating system. The higher the RAM capacity, the more applications and programs the computer can support.
Currently, DDR4 is the most commonly used memory in computers. However, DDR5 will be the next-generation memory and be the standard RAM in the near future. In this article, we will compare the two, DDR4 and DDR5 RAM, and analyze what new things DDR5 brings to the table.
What is DDR4 RAM?
DDR4 RAM is the fourth generation of DDR RAM standard, introduced in 2014. DDR4 RAM is built in modules, and each module has 288 pins. DDR4 memory modules come in various sizes, ranging from 4GB to 32GB, and offer transfer rates from 2133MT/s up to 4800MT/s.
Below are some of the key features of DDR4 RAM:
- Voltage Range: 1.2V - 1.4V
- Bandwidth: 25.6GB/s to 45.8GB/s
- Clock Speed: 2133MHz to 4800 MHz
- Transfer Rate: 2133MT/s - 4800MT/s
- Power Consumption: 1.2V
DDR4 RAM has been the industry standard for many years and is currently the most widely used memory in gaming and professional applications.
What is DDR5 RAM?
DDR5 RAM is the fifth-generation of DDR RAM standard which was launched in March 2019 by JEDEC Solid State Technology Association. DDR5 RAM modules have more pins, taking memory from 288pins to 288+8=296 pins for now. DDR5 RAM can provide data transfer speeds twice the DDR4 RAM’s maximum speed that is 6400MT/s, and it’s expected to reach 8400MT/s in the future.
Below are some of the key features of DDR5 RAM:
- Voltage Range: 1.1V - 1.6V
- Bandwidth: 51.2GB/s to 76.8GB/s
- Clock Speed: 3200MHz to 6400 MHz in Phase 1; eventually, it's expected to exceed 8400MHz
- Transfer Rate: 4800MT/s - 6400MT/s
- Power Consumption: 1.1V
DDR5 RAM has been introduced as the next-generation memory standard for its improved features compared with DDR4 RAM.
DDR4 vs DDR5 RAM
Now, let's compare DDR4 and DDR5 RAM side by side to check the differences and new things in DDR5:
| Specification | DDR4 RAM | DDR5 RAM |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage Range | 1.2V - 1.4V | 1.1V - 1.6V |
| Bandwidth | 25.6GB/s to 45.8GB/s | 51.2GB/s to 76.8GB/s |
| Clock Speed | 2133 MHz to 4800 MHz | 3200 MHz to 6400 MHz |
| Transfer Rate | 2133MT/s - 4800MT/s | 4800MT/s - 6400MT/s |
| Power Consumption | 1.2V | 1.1V |
As you can see from the table, DDR5 RAM provides faster bandwidth, lower power consumption, and higher clock speeds than DDR4 RAM. The increased speed can significantly increase computer performance, making it a perfect choice for high-performance systems, including gaming and video editing.
Conclusion
DDR5 RAM is a next-generation memory standard that offers improved features compared with DDR4 RAM. It delivers faster bandwidth, lower power consumption, and higher clock speeds. It is expected to be the new standard RAM in the near future. DDR4 RAM is still an excellent option for most systems, including standard gaming and work computers.
Finally, DDR5 RAM is not backward compatible with DDR4 at all, and you need a compatible computer equipped with DDR5 motherboard and CPU to utilize DDR5 memory.
We hope this article helps you understand the difference between DDR4 and DDR5 RAM and helps you make an informed decision on which RAM to choose.