This information is for those who want to increase the amount of RAM in their laptop or desktop computer, but at the same time have doubts about which model with which characteristics to buy.
There are quite a few nuances in this issue, here we will consider the most basic points that will allow you to choose the optimal bars for the upgrade.
Let's start with whether it is in your case to increase the amount of RAM?
What gives an increase in RAM in a computer
The speed of your computer depends on the bottlenecks of your hardware. For example, if you have a very powerful processor, but at the same time a slow hard disk, the system will take a long time to load, and programs, for example, even a regular web browser, will start with a noticeable delay of several seconds. In this case, the bottleneck is the hard disk - and it is useless to install an even more powerful processor / video card / additional RAM - all this will practically not affect the speed of loading the system and launching applications until you change your slow hard disk to a fast one (for example, to SSD).
When may you need to increase the RAM - when do you need to buy additional strips to increase the amount of RAM?
A symptom of insufficient RAM is the slowdown of your computer when you open multiple programs that consume a lot of RAM. For example, if your computer starts to run noticeably slower after opening a large number of web browser tabs or after starting Photoshop, it is very likely that this is due to a lack of RAM.
Operating systems use a swap file (partition). The essence of this is that when the system runs out of RAM, it frees it up by writing part of the data to the hard disk. As a result, the system does not stop working and data is not lost - but performance drops, since any hard disk is slower than RAM and additional time is required to write-read data.
Another example where a lot of RAM is required is the use of virtual machines (in, for example) - especially when several virtual computers are running simultaneously:
How to find out which RAM is right for my computer
My own experience says that a computer can work normally with RAM sticks from different manufacturers and with different characteristics. But some users have problems (the system stops loading) if there is an incompatibility of modules from two manufacturers. Therefore, the ideal option is to see which modules you already have installed and buy exactly the same ones. If this is not possible due to the fact that exactly such models have been discontinued, then it is recommended to select the ones that are as close as possible in characteristics.
A program to determine the manufacturer and model of RAM installed in a laptop / computer
In a desktop computer, it is usually not difficult to find out the manufacturer and model of RAM - just open the lid of the system unit and remove one of the modules.
In laptops, it is usually more difficult - it's good if the engineer designed empty slots that are easily accessible, but, as a rule, you cannot get to the pre-installed RAM without disassembling the laptop.
In any case, for desktops or laptops, you can find out the model of the installed memory using the program. To do this, go to the tab Motherboardthen SPDand at the very top you will see the manufacturer and model of RAM:
Next, check the number of free slots - there are motherboards with a total of two slots for RAM, but more often desktops and laptops have four slots, usually two of them are already occupied.
You can view the total number of slots and the number of free slots using standard Windows tools. To do this, open Task Manager, go to the tab Performance, then select Memory:
As you can see, there are four slots and they are all already occupied.
RAM characteristics
Random access memory is of different types, the most common now:
It is clear that DDR4 is the newer and faster option, but not all motherboards, especially those released a few years ago, support DDR4.
Sometimes, a hint about the modules that suits you can be seen on the motherboard:
The DDR3 ONLY inscription means that in this case only DDR3 is suitable.
RAM Form Factor:
- SO-DIMM
SO-DIMMs are reduced slats for portable computers (laptops). DIMM - Brackets for desktop computers.
Memory modules have their own frequency. The higher the frequency, the faster the memory. But if the system has bars with different frequencies, then the system will use them all at the frequency of the slowest module.
Supply voltage: for modules, the voltage varies from 1.2 V to 1.65 V. It is better to take RAM with the same voltage that is already in the system, because otherwise one of the modules will start to get hotter.
Timings are numbers representing latency.
In principle, in addition to the obvious characteristic - the amount of memory, all the technical parameters that you need to pay attention to when upgrading the system are listed.
Do not chase a higher frequency than the module in your system, as already mentioned, they will all work at the frequency of the slowest.
To select modules with the same characteristics as those already installed in your computer, you need to know the characteristics of the installed ones. This information can be found online for your model. Or use specialized programs that show a variety of information about the installed RAM.
How to find out the characteristics of RAM modules in a computer
AIDA64 contains all the information you need.
In the same window where we looked at the manufacturer, you can find information such as:
- Module type
- Memory type
- Memory speed (frequency)
- Voltage
- Timings
The characteristics considered should be enough so that you do not have to carry to change the RAM immediately after purchase, for the reason that it did not fit.
Purchase for bonuses "Thank you from Sberbank"
The following information is not technical. But I got my new RAM modules for half their store price, and since Sberbank cards are very common, I'm sure someone else will be able to take advantage of this opportunity.
Basically, the life hack is very simple. Many owners of savings cards accumulate bonuses, the so-called "Thank you". There are not very many stores where you can spend them, so I, like, probably, many others, just watched how these "candy wrappers" accumulate (and also burn down monthly). The store has a fairly large selection of computer components and they accept these "Thank you from Sberbank". This is not a store advertisement or even a referral link - I just saved money there and I liked it.
Well, since this store is a partner, where they accept and accrue "Thank you from Sberbank", a certain amount was returned to me:
Hello everybody! When choosing a computer or, one of the important issues is how to choose RAM for a computer?
Random access memory is the main component of any computer, without which the computer would not even start. It can be characterized as the working part of the system, which contains temporary information, which, in turn, contributes to the rapid change of programs. The entire contents of RAM is retained until new information displaces it or the computer shuts down.
To choose the right memory, you need to know its type and model. After all, a motherboard or processor can not support all types of RAM. Therefore, all components of the system should not fail. Because the insufficient functioning of one of them leads to significant changes in the operation of the system. This is easy to identify if the problem is not with the RAM - the computer will not even be able to turn on.
How do I choose RAM?
1. Type of RAM: Memory can be of different types. For the correct choice, check what memory your motherboard supports.
There are several types of RAM:
DDR2 - Contains 240 pins, relatively low power consumption of 1.8V, and also clocked at over 1000 MHz.
DDR3 is a type of modern memory. This type has higher performance: it consumes energy of 1.5 V, and the frequency reaches almost 2500 MHz. This will undoubtedly provide tremendous responsiveness of the system. Best solution for now.
DDR4 is the newest type in computer technology. The highest rates are observed for this type. The starting frequency is 2133 MHz. So far, building a computer on this memory is quite expensive and the technology has only just begun to develop.
2. Memory capacity:
Memory capacity affects system capabilities. The larger the memory capacity, the more memory can be stored in RAM. Of course, a high memory score is better, as it will allow the system to run faster. If necessary for simple programs, then 2-4 GB of memory will be enough for the computer, but for modern games you need at least 4-8 GB.
3. Clock frequency:
From the amount of RAM you can judge the speed of work with programs, files, applications, and so on. After all, this is a key indicator of responsiveness to current commands. The most optimal frequency is 1600 MHz (DDR 3).
But check out your processor reviews for the exact selection. What memory works best with it. And what frequency does your motherboard support. For example, for my intel i7 processor, I chose 1866 MHz.
Each memory module consumes a certain amount of power. And over time, the figures are getting lower and lower, although the capacity is growing. After all, the lower the voltage, the less the device heats up. And at high temperatures, the device is unstable.
The voltage is distributed as follows:
DDR - 2.2 V to 2.4 V.
- DDR2 - 1.8V to 2.1V.
- DDR3 - from 1.4V to 1.65V.
- DDR4 - from 1.2V to 1.35V.
5. Timings (memory delays):
Memory accesses devices with certain latencies, and the lower the latency, the faster the response. But the higher the frequency, the higher the latency. In some applications this will be good, but in others it will not. For this, my advice is, take the average, for example, like me 1866 MHz (provided that your processor supports it.)
6. Manufacturer:
At the moment, there are so many of them that when you enter the market you may feel dizzy. But in fact there are not many of them, for example, most of the parts are supplied by Toshiba and Samsung, you just may not know this. For example, how half of the iPhone parts are produced by Samsung, although their competitor ...
But I advise you to take a closer look at the firms:
- Crucial
- Hynix
- Kingston
- Samsung
- Corsair
Conclusion
RAM affects system responsiveness, amount of content, and more. The above indicators of memory are not exhaustive, but will help to correctly determine the memory. Also, do not forget that a lot depends on memory, since it is impossible to imagine a computer system without it. If these problems do not arise, then you are halfway to the successful acquisition of a computer and memory, in particular.
Last but not least, first select a motherboard and processor, and then look at reviews of which memory modules work best with the selected devices. That's all, good luck with your choice of RAM!
For modern games to run faster, a computer needs not only a good graphics card, processor and corresponding motherboard, but also a sufficient amount of RAM. What is it for? In current games, there are very large locations with a considerable number of objects that are stored in the RAM. If there is not enough RAM, the game will access the slow HDD, and this, in turn, can cause freezes.
Corridor shooters may not require a lot of memory, but if you are playing large-scale RTS or FPS games, that changes things. For example, the manufacturer recommends using 16GB of RAM or higher to play Battlefield 1. Those who want to take full advantage of the new platform based on the Z370 or X299 chipsets can familiarize themselves with our selection of modules and choose the option that suits their needs. If you have not yet decided how much RAM you need, use ours.
The best DDR4 kits under 10,000 rubles
Kingston is one of the oldest memory manufacturers on the market. Its HyperX brand is geared towards gamers and its products meet high quality standards. No wonder the memory kit comes with a lifetime warranty. Of course, this is not the cheapest option, but it fits into the budget up to 10,000 rubles.
The operating memory frequency of this model is the lowest at 2133 MHz, but we will not tolerate this as a disadvantage: our extended tests have proven more than once that a higher RAM speed does not give a big performance boost in games. However, overclocking fans can easily increase the nominal frequencies up to 3000 MHz through the motherboard UEFI BIOS.
Price: about 9,500 rubles (a set of 4 strips of 4 GB each)
Best DDR4 RGB Kits
LED illumination of RAM modules heatsinks has long been in 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 backlight zones. Also, the backlight can be synchronized with the ASUS Aura Sync LED-glow.
Overclockers will be able to overclock the memory from the base frequency (2133 MHz by default) to 3200 MHz, while maintaining low latencies. You can take advantage of support for XMP profiles, and the most persistent can increase the frequency to 3600 MHz and higher, if necessary. In an overclocked state, the increase in the speed of data read / write increases significantly.
Price: about 19,000 rubles (a set of 4 strips of 4 GB each)
Best mid-range DDR4 kits
The modules speak for themselves when it comes to the trade-off between affordable cost, stable performance, and quality performance. The price for a set of 4 8 GB slats is quite competitive in online stores, while the performance parameters of this set are at a very good level.
The sixth place for ours for the Intel platform is the same set, but there are two bars. Even without overclocking, this RAM performs well in benchmarks. The maximum frequency to which we were able to overclock this kit was 3400 MHz, with an increase in voltage to 1.4 V. With a more aggressive approach, you can achieve more.
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 has continued to impress gamers and enthusiasts with its products, both in the peripheral market and in the gaming RAM niche. The Dominator Platinum RAM series 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 strips next to each other, you can install additional cooling on them in the form of a cooler block, which is located on the four edges of the radiator modules. Although we did not abuse overclocking, this memory was stretched on our test system up to 3400 MHz with C15 timings.
Price: about 35,000 rubles (a set of 4 strips of 8 GB each)
Best DDR4 Kits: Alternatives
| Excellent memory of Polish production. Its overclocking potential is not very large, but at its cost it will be an excellent choice for those who plan to save money on assembling a gaming PC. And the most interesting thing is that such an economical option supports XMP profiles. | RUB 11,000 | |
| The price for this kit is slightly higher than that of the kit, but 2400 MHz strips are also an excellent choice. The overclocking thresholds for the two models are similar, so it makes more sense to choose a more inexpensive option. | RUB 12,000 | |
| Like the Fury series modules, these bars offer high stability in normal operation and during overclocking. Unfortunately, the high price of this kit makes it more reasonable to purchase four modules. G.Skill Ripjaws V or Corsair Dominator Platinumwith a capacity of 32 GB. | RUB 15,000 | |
| Corsair Vengeance DDR4 3000MHz 16GB | Even though Corsair's Vengeance series has an excellent reputation for reliability and performance. Kits of this memory are often compared to the series Dominator Platinum... But we recommend investing in the best 32GB option. | RUB 15,000 |
| G.Skill Ripjaws V DDR4 2400MHz 16GB | The G.Skill memory kit does not offer much overclocking potential and is not so flexible in overclocking, but the cost of these modules is quite competitive. If you want to save on your budget when buying, this is your choice. | RUB 10,000 |
| G.Skill TridentZ DDR4 3200MHz 64GB | Almost top-end RAM modules that are very close to the level Dominator Platinumin terms of speed indicators, but the difference in cost dictates an advantage in the direction of RAM from Corsair. | RUB 69,000 |
| ADATA XPG Z1 DDR4 2133MHz 16GB | The average price of a set of RAM from ADATA is noticeably higher than that of HyperX Fury Black 16GB DDR4-2133, so only fans of the brand or those who like aggressive cone-shaped radiators will like it. | RUB 17,000 |
| Crucial Ballistix Elite DDR4 3000MHz 32GB | A huge plus of the Ballistix Elite series memory is the Crucial M.O.D RAM monitoring utility, which is useful for overclocking fans. But we recommend giving your preference to the kit G.Skill Ripjaws V and save a lot. | RUB 40,000 |
The amount of RAM
Next, let's dwell in more detail on the next important characteristic of RAM - its volume. First, it should be noted that it most directly affects the number of programs, processes and applications running at the same time and their uninterrupted operation. Today the most popular modules are strips with a volume of 4 GB and 8 GB (we are talking about the DDR3 standard).
Based on what operating system is installed, as well as for what purposes the computer is used, you should correctly choose and select the amount of RAM. For the most part, if the computer is used to access the World Wide Web and to work with various applications, while Windows XP is installed, then 2 GB is quite enough.
For those who like to test a recently released game and people working with graphics, you should install at least 4 GB. And in the event that you plan to install Windows 7, you will need even more.
The easiest way to find out how much memory your system needs is to launch the Task Manager (by pressing the ctrl + alt + del keyboard shortcut) and launch the resource-consuming program or application itself. After that it is necessary to analyze the information in the "Memory allocation" - "Peak" group.
Thus, you can determine the maximum allocated volume and find out to what volume it needs to be increased so that our highest indicator fits in RAM. This will give you maximum system performance. There will be no further increase in the need.
Choice of RAM
Now let's move on to the issue of choosing the RAM that is most suitable for you. From the very beginning, you should determine exactly the type of RAM that your computer motherboard supports. There are different connectors for different types of modules, respectively. Therefore, to avoid damaging the motherboard or the modules themselves, the modules themselves have different sizes.
The optimal amount of RAM was discussed above. When choosing RAM, you should focus on its bandwidth. For system performance, the most optimal option will be when the module bandwidth coincides with the same characteristics of the processor.
That is, if the computer has a processor with a 1333 MHz bus, the bandwidth of which is 10600 Mb / s, then to ensure the most favorable conditions for performance, you can put 2 bars, the bandwidth of which is 5300 Mb / s, and which in total will give us 10600 Mbps.
However, it should be remembered that for such a mode of operation, the RAM modules must be identical in both volume and frequency. It also must be manufactured by a single manufacturer. Here is a short list of well-established manufacturers: Samsung, OCZ, Transcend, Kingston, Corsair, Patriot.
At the end, it is worth summing up the main points:
- Based on the definition: random access memory or RAM is an integral part of a computer, necessary for temporary storage of data, which in turn is necessary for the processor to operate.
- After the completion of any operations (closing programs, applications), all data associated with them is deleted from the microcircuit. And when new tasks are started, data that is needed by the processor at a given time is loaded into it from the hard disk.
- The speed of access to data in RAM is several hundred times higher than the speed of access to information on the hard disk. This allows the processor to use the information that is needed, gaining instant access to it.
- Today the most common are 2 types: DDR3 (800 to 2400 MHz) and DDR4 (2133 to 4266 MHz). The higher the frequency, the faster the system works.
If you have any difficulties with the choice of RAM, if you cannot determine what type of RAM your motherboard supports and what volume will more meet your needs, then you can always contact the service site. We are computer help at home in Moscow and the Moscow region. Our experts will help with the selection, replacement and installation in a computer or laptop.
