Which memory modules to choose. RAM for laptop DDR3. How to choose the right

To make modern games run faster, a computer needs not only a good graphics card, processor and corresponding motherboard, but also a sufficient amount of RAM. Why is this necessary? In current games, very large locations with a considerable number of objects, which are just stored in RAM. If there is little RAM, the game will turn to a slow HDD, and this, in turn, can cause “friezes”.

For corridor shooters, a lot of memory may not be required, but if you play large-scale RTS or FPS games, this changes things. For example, to play Battlefield 1, the manufacturer recommends using 16 GB of RAM or higher. Those who want to use all the advantages of the new platform based on Z370 or X299 chipsets can familiarize themselves with our selection of modules and choose the option that suits them at a cost. If you have not yet decided how much RAM you need - use our.

The best sets of DDR4 up to 10 000 rubles

Kingston is one of the oldest memory manufacturers on the market. Its HyperX brand is aimed at gamers, and its products meet high quality standards. Not surprisingly, a lifetime warranty is given on the memory kit. Of course, this is not the cheapest option, but up to 10,000 rubles fits into the budget.

The operating memory frequency for this model is the lowest 2133 MHz, but we won’t take it to the disadvantages: our advanced tests have repeatedly proved that a higher RAM speed does not give a big performance boost in games. However, overclocking fans will be able to easily increase the nominal frequencies to 3000 MHz through the UEFI BIOS of the motherboard.

Price:  about 9500 rubles (a set of 4 strips of 4 GB each)

Best RGB DDR4 Kits

The LED illumination of the heatsinks of RAM modules has long been a trend, and the ability to synchronize the glow between all modules was only a matter of time. In the case of memory G.Skill Trident Z RGB Series 16GB DDR4 3000  This is done through special software by adjusting the color in five zones of the backlight. Also, the backlight can be synchronized with the ASUS Aura Sync LED.

Overclockers will be able to overclock the memory from the base frequency (by default, set 2133 MHz) to 3200 MHz, while maintaining low latency. You can take advantage of support for XMP profiles, and the most persistent will be able to increase the frequency to 3600 MHz and higher, if necessary. In the overclocked state, the increase in the speed of reading / writing data is significantly increased.

Price:  about 19 000 rubles (a set of 4 strips of 4 GB each)

Best Mid-Range DDR4 Kits

When it comes to a compromise between affordable cost, stable performance and quality performance, the modules speak for themselves. The price of a set of 4 strips of 8 GB is quite competitive in online stores, while the performance parameters of this kit are at a very good level.

In sixth place for our Intel platform is the same set, but their two bars. Even without overclocking, this RAM shows itself well in benchmarks. The maximum frequency to which we were able to overclock this kit was 3400 MHz, with increasing voltage to 1.4 V. With a more aggressive approach, more can be achieved.

Price:  about 26,000 rubles (a set of 4 strips of 8 GB each)

Best High-End DDR4 Kits

Since its founding in 1994, Corsair continues to impress gamers and enthusiasts with its products, both in the peripheral market and in the niche of game RAM. RAM-series Dominator Platinum was introduced back in 2012, and its features migrated to the latest DDR4 modules. For example, DHX cooling with powerful aluminum radiators.

When installing four slats next to each other, you can install additional cooling on them in the form of a cooler block, which is located on the four faces of the radiator modules. Although we did not abuse overclocking, we extended this memory on our test system to 3400 MHz with C15 timings.

Price:  about 35,000 rubles (a set of 4 strips of 8 GB each)

Best DDR4 Kits: Alternatives

The choice of RAM depends on many different factors. First of all, it should be clarified for what purposes the computer will be used and with what programs, applications or games it will have to work.

When you decide to upgrade the RAM of your computer, you are faced with one of two tasks: either you need to increase the amount of existing RAM, or make the RAM itself work faster.

We can increase the amount of RAM by installing an additional RAM module or by replacing previously installed ones with modules with a larger capacity. However, such a replacement should take into account some important circumstances.

When you are faced with the question - which RAM to choose? It should be remembered that RAM works together with the central processor, therefore, how fast the data exchange between them will be, the performance indicators of your entire system will be so high. Moreover, the default processor speed is much higher than the RAM speed, which means we must make the memory work at maximum performance.

We will give some tips on how to choose the right memory, and before that we will introduce you to the main parameters and characteristics that you should pay attention to before buying a new RAM.

  Choose the amount of RAM

Volume / capacity (measured in gigabytes) is a parameter that indicates the physical volume of a memory module, that is, space for storing information. The main rule that should be followed when choosing a certain amount of RAM is those system requirements and recommendations that provide manufacturers of the software that you are going to install on your computer.

It will be very useful to make an approximate list of programs, and be sure to take into account the type of operating system that you are going to install when compiling. Further on the list, peak (upper values \u200b\u200bof the recommended and minimum memory sizes) should be highlighted. RAM should always be installed with a margin, while the recommended system requirements should be lower than the amount of your RAM.

Next, we will offer you the optimal amount of RAM for a home computer, depending on the needs of use. The volume of 2 GB will be quite sufficient for the computer office option. 4 GB is the average optimal size for a multimedia computer. From 4 GB and above - sufficient for avid gamers or for people involved in graphics or video processing.

An important point is that the RAM working in two-channel mode, using two brackets at the same time, will always work faster than using one or three. Similarly, on a three-channel system, it will be more appropriate to install three or six RAM slots.

  Clock frequency - an important characteristic when choosing RAM

The clock frequency / frequency (measured in megahertz) is an indicator of the operating frequency of the RAM module, that is, the frequency with which the central processor and RAM exchange data. This indicator depends on the type of memory (which will be mentioned below), however, RAM of the same type has different clock speed indicators, which you should definitely pay attention to before choosing RAM. Then everything is simple - from two modules with the same volume you should choose the one with a higher clock frequency.

At the same time, it is imperative to take into account the factor that if you select a memory bar to supplement an existing one, then a new module should be selected with the same frequency indicator as that of an already installed RAM. The point here is that the system selects the lowest frequency of the two proposed for operation. Therefore, having installed the module with a lower frequency, on the contrary, we will slow down the computer. And vice versa, having installed the module with a higher frequency, we won’t get any improvements in the system’s operation.

  RAM Type

Type / type  - At the moment, the market is represented by the following types of memory: DDR, DDR2 and DDR3.

DDR is now considered obsolete and practically nowhere, except in older computers, is not used. This module has 184 contacts and its standard supply voltage is 2.5 V.

The most common today is the DDR2 type. Unlike the previous type, which samples 2 bits of data per clock cycle, DDR2 makes 4 bits of information per clock cycle. DDR2 has 240 pins and a supply voltage of 1.8 V.

DDR3 - A new type of RAM. It allows you to select already 8 bits of information in one working cycle. It, like the previous generation of modules, has 240 contacts, but the supply voltage is already less and is only 1.5 V. This allows you to reduce energy consumption by up to 40% compared with the energy consumption of DDR2. This indicator is very useful for mobile systems and laptops.

Before choosing RAM, you should first determine the type of memory supported by your motherboard. Moreover, modules of different types have different form factors, so a module of one type cannot be installed in a connector designed for another. This just protects the motherboard from accidental damage due to lack of education in the configuration of computer components.

  Latency / Timing

Latency / timing’s - the time delay of the signals, which is necessary for the execution of a command (zeroing, recording, overwriting, etc.) Before deciding which RAM to choose, you need to find out the timing indicators for each of the proposed RAM. Then, on the principle of "less is better", choose the one that has the least delay.

However, it must be taken into account that the memory module, which has high clock speeds, often has higher delays than RAM with low clock speeds. Therefore, here everyone decides what is more important for him.

Depending on the application, we will have a different performance gain. In some, it will grow due to lower delays, in others, on the contrary, due to a higher clock frequency. That is, it is better to find a compromise solution and purchase an average module with standard latency, even if it will not be fast, but you will save, and also get a stable system.

  We choose the manufacturer of RAM

Manufacturer / brand company - at the moment, the choice of RAM is a rather difficult task, since this segment of the market is represented by a huge number of manufacturers. Therefore, as in matters of the purchase of other components of a personal computer, the choice should be stopped at those manufacturers who have been on the market of computer components for more than one year and who have proven themselves excellently earlier. Among them we distinguish the following manufacturers: Transcend, Samsung, Kingston, Corsar, OCZ Technology, Hynix, Hyndai, Patriot and others.

Of course, the choice of a specific memory module is based on your personal needs and goals. So, almost every manufacturer has "overclocked" RAMs, which have an increased frequency of operation and an increased supply voltage, from which there is greater heat generation. To dissipate this excess heat, these types of modules are additionally equipped with radiators.

Never spend money on the purchase of RAM from unknown manufacturers. There is a risk to save money, but in the end, to get system instability, and, in addition, significantly reduce computer performance.

So, to summarize and once again for ourselves, we note those parameters that you should pay attention to before choosing a random access memory: its size (selected in accordance with the intended tasks that your system will have to cope with), type of RAM, clock speed ( depends on type), latency (delay time), and, of course, the manufacturer.

Doubt which RAM to choose? Can't determine the type of RAM that your motherboard supports? Not sure how much RAM will be more suited to your needs ?. Our experts will always help with the choice. In addition, here you can order the installation of a new RAM in the system unit or laptop (netbook).

   Call Master

Memory DDR3  gradually losing ground as the most massive and is no longer recommended for assembling new systems. Another thing if the task is to upgrade a slightly outdated computer, and within a limited budget. Of course, such conditions exclude the maximum overclocked memory sets from the list of options, and they are not considered in our review.

It is noteworthy that within the framework of the platform Intel  the race for megahertz does not make much sense either. The exception here is quite specific tasks, which for most users are not of interest. On the other hand, the difference in price of memory sets of the same volume, but with different clock speeds, is vanishingly small (in the range from 2133 to 3000 MHz, of course). So why not choose a set of RAM faster, for the future?

The situation with the latest platform is completely different. AMD. Due to the nature of its internal architecture, the performance of Ryzen processors directly depends on the operating frequency of the Infinity Fabric memory bus, and therefore, its controller. In turn, the frequency of the latter is “tied” to the characteristics of installed modules and can be increased due to overclocking.

Extremely unpleasant nuance of choosing memory modules for Ryzen lies in the fact that not every set will work in such a system even at its nominal clock frequency. There is already a problem in the architecture features of the modules themselves. Briefly, the recommendations can be reduced to two tips: focus on peer-to-peer memory slats and on the latest BIOS revision for the motherboard. The newer the AGESA protocol in it, the better. Keep in mind that the dual-rank memory with Ryzen will always work at lower frequencies, and the earlier versions of the specified protocol are “friendly” only to modules based on Samsung chips. And not just any, but exclusively B-Die generations.

Have a good upgrade!

RAM frequency  - the higher the frequency, the faster the information will be transmitted for processing and the higher will be the performance of the computer. When they talk about the frequency of RAM, they mean the frequency of data transfer, not the clock frequency.

1. DDR  - 200/266/333/400 MHz (clock frequency 100/133/166/200 MHz).
   DDR2  - 400/533/667/800/1066 MHz (200/266/333/400/533 MHz clock frequency).
2. DDR3  - 800/1066/1333/1600/1800/2000/2133/2200/2400 MHz (400/533/667/800/1800/1000/1066/1100/1200 MHz clock frequency). But because of the high timings (delays), the same-frequency memory modules lose in DDR2 performance.
3. DDR4 — 2133/2400/2666/2800/3000/3200/3333.

Data rate

Data transfer frequency (correctly called - data transfer rate, Data rate) - the number of data transfer operations per second through the selected channel. Measured in gigatransfer (GT / s) or megatransfer (MT / s). For DDR3-1333, the data transfer rate will be 1333 MT / s.

You need to understand that this is not a clock frequency. The real frequency will be half of the indicated, DDR (Double Data Rate) is the doubled data rate. Therefore, the DDR-400 memory operates at a frequency of 200 MHz, DDR2-800 at a frequency of 400 MHz, and DDR3-1333 at 666 MHz.

The frequency of RAM indicated on the board is the maximum frequency with which it can work. If you install 2 DDR3-2400 and DDR3-1333 boards, the system will operate at the maximum frequency of the weakest board, i.e. by 1333. Thus, the throughput will decrease, but the decrease in throughput is not the only problem; errors may appear when loading the operating system and critical errors during operation. If you are going to buy RAM, you need to consider the frequency at which it can work. This frequency should match the frequency supported by the motherboard.

Maximum data rate

The second parameter (in the photo PC3-10666) is the maximum data transfer rate measured in Mb / s. For DDR3-1333 PC3-10666, the maximum data transfer rate is 10.664 MB / s.

Timing and frequency of RAM

Many motherboards, when installing memory modules on them, do not set the maximum clock frequency for them. One of the reasons is the lack of performance gain with increasing clock frequency, because with increasing frequency, working timings increase. Of course, this can improve performance in some applications, but also lower it in others, or it may not affect the applications at all, which are not dependent on memory latencies or bandwidth.

Timing determines the delay time of the memory. For example, the CAS Latency parameter (CL, or access time) determines how many clock cycles of the memory module will lead to a delay in the return of data requested by the processor. RAM with CL 9 will delay nine clock cycles to transmit the requested data, and memory with CL 7 will delay seven clock cycles to transmit them. Both RAMs can have the same frequency and data rate parameters, but the second RAM will transfer data faster than the first. This problem is known as latency.

The smaller the timing parameter, the faster the memory.

For example. The Corsair memory module installed on the M4A79 Deluxe motherboard will have these timings: 5-5-5-18. If you increase the memory clock speed to DDR2-1066, the timings will increase and will have the following values \u200b\u200b5-7-7-24.

The Qimonda memory module, when operating at a clock frequency of DDR3-1066, has working timings of 7-7-7-20; when the operating frequency is increased to DDR3-1333, the board sets timings of 9-9-9-25. As a rule, timings are registered in SPD and for different modules may vary.

Random access memory (RAM, Random Access Memory, RAM) is one of the main parts in the computer. This is a volatile component that stores machine code, incoming / outgoing and intermediate data while the computer is running. The process of choosing RAM only at first glance seems understandable, but it contains many nuances that must be considered in order to acquire high-quality components.

The easiest way to choose the RAM bar is to use the list of recommended modules on the website of the manufacturer of the motherboard installed on the computer. Since these parts of the PC are inextricably linked (including with the processor), it makes sense to pay attention to the manufacturer's advice. The recommended RAM modules indicated on his website will definitely work on your PC.

Another piece of advice that should be followed when acquiring RAM strips is matching another hardware. When buying an inexpensive motherboard and a budget processor, do not choose expensive RAM, because during operation it will not reveal its potential. But it is very important to pay attention to the technical characteristics of RAM.

Main settings

When buying a new RAM, pay attention to the main parameters that will help you make the right choice.

First determine what type of RAM is suitable for your motherboard. This parameter is indicated in the description for it. Today there are four types: SDRAM, DDR (DDR1), DDR2, DDR3 and DDR4.

The most common type of RAM today is DDR3. Unlike previous generation modules, it works with a clock frequency of up to 2400 MHz and consumes 30-40% less electricity compared to its predecessor. In addition, it has a lower supply voltage, therefore it emits less heat.

All types of RAM are incompatible with each other in electrical (different supply voltage) and physical parameters (control holes are located in different places). The photo shows why the DDR3 RAM module cannot be installed in the DDR2 slot.

Useful! The DDR4 standard is gaining popularity. It is characterized by lower power consumption and higher operating frequencies (growth perspective up to 3200 MHz).

The form factor characterizes the size of the RAM strips. There are two types:

• DIMM (Dual Inline Memory Module) - are installed on stationary PCs;
• SO-DIMM - for installation in laptops or all-in-ones.

Bus frequency and bandwidth

The RAM performance depends on these two parameters. Bus frequency characterizes the amount of information transmitted per unit of time. The higher it is, the more information will pass through the bus for the same time period. There is a direct proportional relationship between the bus frequency and the bandwidth: if the RAM frequency is 1800 MHz, theoretically it has a bandwidth of 14400 Mb / s.

Do not chase the high frequency of RAM at the rate of "the more, the better." For the average user, the difference between 1333 MHz or 1600 MHz is invisible. It is important only for professional users who render video, or for overclockers who want to “overclock” RAM.

When choosing a frequency, start from the tasks that you set for the computer, and from its configuration. It is desirable that the frequency of the RAM modules coincides with the frequency at which the motherboard operates. If you connect the DDR3-1800 bracket to a motherboard that supports the DDR3-1333 standard, RAM will run at 1333 MHz.

In this case, the more the better - this is the optimal description of the parameter. Today, the minimum allowable amount of RAM that must be installed on a computer or laptop is 4 GB. Depending on the tasks that are performed on the device, the amount of RAM can be 8, 32 or even 128 GB. An ordinary user will have enough 8 GB, for a specialist working with video processing programs, or for a gamer you need 16-64 GB of “operative”.

RAM timings are characterized by delays in work. They are calculated in nanoseconds, and in the description they are indicated by a sequential set of numbers: 9-9-9-27, where the first three parameters are: CAS Latency, RAS to CAS Delay, RAS Precharge Time and DRAM Cycle Time Tras / Trc. They characterize the speed on the segment "memory processor", which directly affects the efficiency of the computer. The lower these values, the lower the delay and higher PC performance.

Some companies in the description for RAM modules indicate only one digit - CL9. It characterizes CAS Latency. Basically, it is equal to other parameters or below them.

Good to know! The higher the frequency of RAM, the higher the timings, so you need to choose the optimal ratio for yourself.

RAM slots with the designation “Low Latency” are sold. This means that at high frequencies they have low timings. But their cost is higher than that of conventional models.

Modes

To increase computer performance, special modes of RAM strips are used: one-, two-, three-channel and Flex-Mode. In this case, the speed of the system theoretically increases two, three or more times.

Important! The motherboard must support these operating modes. The description of it indicates which connectors you need to install the bracket to enable the desired mode.

• Single channel mode It starts when one RAM module is used or all the strips differ in parameters. In this case, the system operates at the speed of the bar with the smallest frequency.
• Dual channel mode  turns on when two RAM modules with the same characteristics (frequency, timings, volume) are installed in the slots. The performance gain is 10-20% in games and 20-70% when working with graphics.
• Three-channel mode  It is activated when three identical RAM strips are connected. In fact, he does not always win in speed before the dual-channel mode.
• Flex-Mode (flexible)  - increases PC performance when using two RAM strips of the same frequency, but different in volume.

Important! It is desirable that the memory strips were from the same batch of delivery. On sale there are kits consisting of two to four modules that are completely suitable for each other in work.

When buying digital equipment, pay attention to the manufacturer. Among the companies involved in the production of RAM modules, the most popular are: Corsair, Kingston, GoodRam, Hynix, Samsung and others.

Interestingly, the market for the production of memory chips for RAM modules is almost completely divided between three large companies: Samsung, Hynix, Micron. And large manufacturers use their chips to produce their own models.

Modern RAM strips work with low energy consumption, so they emit a small amount of heat. In view of this, you do not need to buy models with installed radiators. But if you are a fan of overclocking the hardware, then take care of acquiring RAM modules with radiators. They will not let them burn out during overclocking.

If necessary, the user can purchase a cooling system for RAM, consisting of radiators and fans. It is also intended for use by overclockers.

Choosing an Existing Bar

When purchasing a new RAM module that is already installed on your PC, remember that often such combinations do not work together. But if you decide to buy, make sure that the timings and frequencies of the bus are the same. In addition, choose the RAM strips from the same manufacturer.

Video

If you do not fully understand how to choose RAM, watch this video.