RAM, or random-access memory, is one of the most important components of any PC. It stores the data and instructions that your CPU, or central processing unit, needs to perform various tasks. The faster and larger your RAM, the smoother and more responsive your PC will be.
How do you choose the best RAM for your PC in 2023? There are many factors to consider, such as the type, capacity, speed, latency, voltage, and compatibility of the memory modules. In this article, we will explain what these terms mean and how they affect your PC performance. We will also recommend some of the best RAM kits available in 2023 for different use cases and budgets.
Which Type of RAM Should You Get ? DDR4 vs DDR5
The first thing you need to know is that there are two types of RAM in 2023: DDR4 and DDR5. DDR stands for double data rate, which means that the memory can transfer data twice per clock cycle. The number after DDR indicates the generation of the memory technology, with higher numbers meaning faster speeds and lower power consumption.
DDR4 RAM
DDR4 is the older and more common type of RAM in 2023. It has been around since 2014 and is compatible with most motherboards and CPUs on the market. DDR4 RAM typically operates at speeds ranging from 2133 MHz to 4800 MHz, with latencies ranging from CL14 to CL22. Latency, or CAS latency, is the number of clock cycles it takes for the memory to respond to a request from the CPU. Lower latencies mean faster response times.
DDR5 RAM
DDR5 is the newer and more advanced type of RAM in 2023. It was introduced in late 2021 and is only compatible with select motherboards and CPUs that support it. DDR5 RAM offers higher speeds, lower latencies, higher capacities, and lower voltages than DDR4 RAM. DDR5 RAM typically operates at speeds ranging from 4800 MHz to 8400 MHz, with latencies ranging from CL32 to CL40.
DDR4 vs DDR5
So which type of RAM should you get for your PC in 2023? The answer depends on your budget, your motherboard and CPU compatibility, and your performance needs.
If you are building a new PC or upgrading an old one that supports DDR5 RAM, then we recommend that you get DDR5 RAM. It will give you the best performance and future-proof your system for years to come. However, DDR5 RAM is also more expensive than DDR4 RAM, so you will have to pay a premium for it.
If you are building a new PC or upgrading an old one that only supports DDR4 RAM, then we recommend that you get DDR4 RAM. It will still give you decent performance and compatibility with most hardware and software. However, DDR4 RAM may become obsolete sooner than DDR5 RAM, so you may have to upgrade again in the future.
How Much RAM Do You Need?
The next thing you need to know is how much RAM you need for your PC in 2023. The amount of RAM you need depends on what you use your PC for and how many programs you run at the same time.
8 GB of RAM
For general use, such as web browsing, email, office work, video streaming, and casual gaming, we recommend that you get at least 8 GB of RAM. This will ensure that your PC runs smoothly and can handle multiple tabs and applications without slowing down.
16 GB of RAM
For gaming, video editing, graphic design, music production, and other demanding tasks, we recommend that you get at least 16 GB of RAM. This will ensure that your PC can handle high-resolution graphics, large files, complex effects, and multiple layers without lagging or crashing.
32 GB of RAM
For extreme gaming, professional workstations, servers, and other specialized applications, we recommend that you get at least 32 GB or more of RAM. This will ensure that your PC can handle ultra-high settings, massive data sets, heavy multitasking, and intensive workloads without breaking a sweat.
Best RAM Kits for PC : DDR5 $ Discount 2023
Popular DDR5 RAM Comparision
Brand | No. | RAM | Devices | Speed | Price | Discount |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
CORSAIR | CMK32GX5M2B5600C36 | 16 GB | Desktop | 5600 MT/s | 94.99 | buy now |
CORSAIR | CMH32GX5M2D6000C36W | 32 GB | Desktop | 6000 MT/s | 119.99 | buy now |
G.SKILL | F5-6000J3636F16GA2-TZ5RK | 32 GB | Desktop | 6000 MT/s | 99.99 | buy now |
G.SKILL | F5-6000J3038F16GX2-TZ5NR | 32 GB | Desktop | 6000 MT/s | 114.99 | buy now |
Crucial | CP2K16G56C46U5 | 32 GB | Desktop | 5600 MT/s | *79.99 | buy now |
Crucial | CT2K16G56C46S5 | 32 GB | Laptop | 5600 MT/s | *76.49 | buy now |
Crucial | CT2K32G48C40S5 | 64 GB | Laptop | 4800 MT/s | *142.45 | buy now |
CORSAIR RAM DDR5
『CORSAIR VENGEANCE DDR5 RAM 32GB (2x16GB) 5600MHz CL36 Intel XMP iCUE Compatible Computer Memory – Black (CMK32GX5M2B5600C36)』
- Brand: Corsair
- Computer Memory Size: 16 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR5
- Memory Speed: 5600 MHz
- Compatible Devices: Desktop
『CORSAIR VENGEANCE RGB DDR5 RAM 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MHz CL36 Intel XMP iCUE Compatible Computer Memory – White (CMH32GX5M2D6000C36W)』
- Brand: Corsair
- Computer Memory Size: 32 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR5
- Memory Speed: 6000 MHz
- Compatible Devices: Desktop
G.SKILL RAM DDR5
『G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB Series (Intel XMP 3.0) DDR5 RAM 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MT/s CL36-36-36-96 1.35V Desktop Computer Memory UDIMM – Matte Black (F5-6000J3636F16GA2-TZ5RK)』
- Brand: G.Skill
- Computer Memory Size: 32 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR5
- Memory Speed: 6000 MT/s
- Compatible Devices: Desktop
『G.SKILL Trident Z5 Neo RGB Series (AMD Expo) DDR5 RAM 32GB (2x16GB) 6000MT/s CL30-38-38-96 1.35V Desktop Computer Memory UDIMM – Matte Black (F5-6000J3038F16GX2-TZ5NR) 』
- Brand: G.Skill
- Computer Memory Size: 32 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR5
- Memory Speed: 6000 MT/s
- Compatible Devices: Desktop
Crucial RAM DDR5
『Crucial Pro RAM 32GB Kit (2x16GB) DDR5 5600MT/s (or 5200MT/s or 4800MT/s) Desktop Memory CP2K16G56C46U5』
- Brand: Crucial
- Computer Memory Size: 32 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR5
- Memory Speed: 5600 MT/s
- Compatible Devices: Desktop
『Crucial RAM 32GB Kit (2x16GB) DDR5 5600MHz (or 5200MHz or 4800MHz) Laptop Memory CT2K16G56C46S5, Black』
- Brand: Crucial
- Computer Memory Size: 32 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR5
- Memory Speed: 5600 MT/s
- Compatible Devices: Laptop
『Crucial RAM 64GB Kit (2x32GB) DDR5 4800MT/s CL40 Laptop Memory CT2K32G48C40S5』
- Brand: Crucial
- Computer Memory Size: 64 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR5
- Memory Speed: 4800 MT/s
- Compatible Devices: Laptop
Best RAM Kits for PC : DDR4 $ Discount 2023
Popular DDR4 RAM Comparision
Brand | No. | RAM | Device | Speed | Price | Discount |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Crucial | CT2K16G4SFRA32A | 32 GB | Laptop | 3200 MT/s | 56.99 | buy now |
Crucial | CP2K16G4DFRA32A | 32 GB | Desktop | 3200 MT/s | *61.99 | buy now |
Corsair | CMK32GX4M2E3200C16 | 32 GB | Intel | 2133 MT/s | *64.99 | buy now |
Corsair | CMW32GX4M2E3200C16 | 32 GB | Intel,AMD | 3200 MT/s | *77.99 | buy now |
Silicon Power | SP016GXLZU320BDAJ5 | 16 GB | Desktop | 3200 MT/s | *29.99 | buy now |
Silicon Power | SP032GXLZU320BDAJ7 | 32 GB | Desktop | 3200 MT/s | 49.97 | buy now |
Crucial RAM DDR4
『Crucial RAM 32GB Kit (2x16GB) DDR4 3200MHz CL22 (or 2933MHz or 2666MHz) Laptop Memory CT2K16G4SFRA32A』
- Brand: Crucial
- Computer Memory Size: 32 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR4
- Memory Speed: 3200 MHz
- Compatible Devices: Laptop
『Crucial Pro RAM 32GB Kit (2x16GB) DDR4 3200MT/s (or 3000MT/s or 2666MT/s) Desktop Memory CP2K16G4DFRA32A』
- Brand: Crucial
- Computer Memory Size: 32 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR4
- Memory Speed: 3200 MT/s
- Compatible Devices: Desktop
Corsair RAM DDR4
『Corsair VENGEANCE LPX DDR4 RAM 32GB (2x16GB) 3200MHz CL16 Intel XMP 2.0 Computer Memory – Black (CMK32GX4M2E3200C16)』
- Brand: Corsair
- Computer Memory Size: 32 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR4
- Memory Speed: 2133 MHz
- Compatible Devices: Intel 300 Series,Intel 400 Series,Intel 500 Series,Intel 400 Series,Intel 500 Series,Intel X299
『Corsair VENGEANCE RGB PRO DDR4 32GB (2x16GB) 3200MHz CL16 Intel XMP 2.0 iCUE Compatible Computer Memory – Black (CMW32GX4M2E3200C16)』
- Brand: Corsair
- Computer Memory Size: 32 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DIMM
- Memory Speed: 3200 MHz
- Compatible Devices: Intel Z390,AMD 400 Series,AMD 500 Series,AMD X570
Silicon Power RAM DDR4
『Silicon Power Value Gaming DDR4 RAM 16GB (2x8GB) 3200MHz (PC4 25600) CL16 1.35V Desktop Memory Module with Heatsink Camouflage Grey SP016GXLZU320BDAJ5』
- Brand: SP Silicon Power
- Computer Memory Size: 16 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR4
- Memory Speed: 3200 MHz
- Compatible Devices: Desktop
『Silicon Power Value Gaming DDR4 RAM 32GB (2x16GB) 3200MHz (PC4 25600) 288-pin CL16 1.35V UDIMM Desktop Memory Module with Heatsink Grey SP032GXLZU320BDAJ7』
- Brand: SP Silicon Power
- Computer Memory Size: 32 GB
- RAM Memory Technology: DDR4
- Memory Speed: 3200 MHz
- Compatible Devices: Desktop
How Fast Should Your RAM Be ?
The last thing you need to know is how fast your RAM should be for your PC in 2023. The speed of your RAM affects how quickly it can transfer data to and from the CPU. Faster RAM means faster performance.
However, the speed of your RAM also depends on other factors besides its frequency (MHz). These include its latency (CL), its voltage (V), its rank (single or dual), and its channel (single, dual, or quad). These factors affect how efficiently your RAM can communicate with your CPU and other components.
To find the best RAM speed for your PC in 2023, you need to consider the following:
- Your motherboard and CPU compatibility: Your motherboard and CPU determine the maximum speed and capacity of RAM that they can support. You can check this information on the manufacturer’s website or the user manual. You should always get RAM that is compatible with your motherboard and CPU, otherwise it may not work or cause instability issues.
- Your performance needs: Your performance needs determine how much speed and capacity of RAM you actually need. You should always get enough RAM to meet your needs, but not more than you need, otherwise you may waste money or power. You should also balance the speed and latency of your RAM, as higher speeds usually come with higher latencies, which may negate the performance gains.
- Your budget: Your budget determines how much money you can spend on RAM. You should always get the best RAM that you can afford, but not more than you can afford, otherwise you may compromise on other components or features. You should also compare the prices and reviews of different RAM kits before buying, as some may offer better value or quality than others.
To help you find the best RAM speed for your PC in 2023, we have compiled a list of some of the best RAM kits available in 2023 for different use cases and budgets. We have divided them into two categories: DDR4 and DDR5. We have also included their specifications, prices, and links to buy them online.
What is RAM ? common Q&A
RAM, or Random Access Memory, is a type of computer memory that allows the processor to access and store data quickly and temporarily. RAM is often called the “working memory” or the “short-term memory” of the computer, because it holds the information that the processor needs to perform the current tasks. RAM is different from the hard drive or SSD, which are the long-term storage devices that store the files and programs permanently.
Why is RAM important?
RAM is important for the performance and speed of the computer, because it determines how much data the processor can work with at any given time. The more RAM a computer has, the more programs it can run simultaneously, and the faster it can switch between them. RAM also affects how smoothly the computer can handle multitasking, gaming, video editing, web browsing, and other demanding tasks.
How does RAM work?
RAM consists of small electronic components called capacitors and transistors, which can store bits of data as electrical charges. Each bit of data can be either 0 or 1, depending on whether the capacitor is charged or not. The processor can read and write data to any location in RAM in any order, hence the name “random access”. However, RAM is volatile, which means that it needs a constant supply of power to maintain the data. If the power is cut off, the data in RAM will be lost.
What are the types of RAM?
There are many types of RAM, but the most common ones used in modern computers are DDR (Double Data Rate) and DDR SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory). DDR SDRAM is an improved version of SDRAM that can transfer data twice as fast as SDRAM by using both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal. DDR SDRAM has several generations, such as DDR2, DDR3, DDR4, and DDR5, each with different speeds, capacities, voltages, and features.
How much RAM do you need?
The amount of RAM you need depends on your usage and needs. Generally speaking, more RAM is better than less RAM, but there is a point of diminishing returns where adding more RAM will not make a noticeable difference. For basic tasks like web browsing, email, word processing, and streaming video, 4 GB of RAM should be enough for most users. For more demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, graphic design, and multitasking, 8 GB or 16 GB of RAM would be recommended. For professional or enthusiast users who work with large datasets, complex simulations, or high-end applications, 32 GB or more of RAM may be required.
How to upgrade your RAM?
If you want to upgrade your RAM, you need to check your motherboard specifications and compatibility first. You need to know what type of RAM your motherboard supports, how many slots it has, and what is the maximum capacity it can handle. You also need to make sure that your new RAM matches your existing RAM in terms of speed, voltage, and timings. If you have different types or speeds of RAM in your system, they may not work well together or cause instability issues.
To install your new RAM, you need to open your computer case and locate the memory slots on your motherboard. You need to align the notch on the bottom edge of the RAM stick with the slot and gently push it down until it clicks into place. You may need to remove or move some cables or components to access the slots. You also need to make sure that there is enough space and airflow around the RAM sticks to prevent overheating.
After installing your new RAM, you need to close your computer case and turn on your system. You may need to enter the BIOS settings and check if your new RAM is detected and configured correctly. You may also want to run some memory tests or benchmarks to verify that your new RAM is working properly and stable.