How to Choose Memory RAM for a Gaming PC

Posted by Doctor Memory on 19th Jun 2024

Introduction

In the world of PC gaming, performance is paramount. One of the key components that significantly impacts your gaming experience is the system RAM. Choosing the right RAM can mean the difference between a smooth, immersive gaming session and one riddled with lag and stutters.

In this blog, we will guide you through selecting the best RAM for your gaming PC, covering everything from understanding RAM basics to comparing DDR3 and DDR4 and ultimately helping you make an informed decision. We'll explore crucial factors like capacity, speed, and compatibility, ensuring you can optimise your gaming experience with the right choice of RAM.

What is RAM?

Random Access Memory (RAM) is a type of computer memory that temporarily stores data, enabling quick access and manipulation. Unlike storage drives that preserve data long-term, RAM is volatile, meaning it loses all stored information when powered off. In gaming, RAM is crucial as it provides the CPU with fast access to the game data, ensuring smooth gameplay and quick load times.

Types of RAM

Over the years, RAM technology has significantly evolved. Today, the most common types of RAM used in gaming PCs are DDR (Double Data Rate) variants. Each generation of DDR RAM has brought speed improvements, capacity and efficiency.

DDR1 (Double Data Rate 1)

Introduced: 2000
Clock Speed: 200-400 MHz
Memory Size: Typically up to 1GB per stick
Power Consumption: 2.5V
Notable Features: The first generation of RAM to use double data rate (DDR) allowed for faster data transfer compared to Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM)

DDR2 (Double Data Rate 2)

Introduced: 2003
Clock Speed: 400-1066 MHz
Memory Size: Typically up to 2GB per stick
Power Consumption: 1.8V
Notable Features: Higher clock speeds and lower power consumption compared to DDR1.DDR3 (Double Data Rate 3)

Introduced: 2007
Clock Speed: 800-2133 MHz
Memory Size: Typically up to 8GB per stick
Power Consumption: 1.5V
Notable Features: Improved performance, lower power consumption, and higher memory capacity.

DDR4 (Double Data Rate 4)

Introduced: 2014
Clock Speed: 2133-4800 MHz
Memory Size: Typically up to 16GB per stick (with higher capacities available)
Power Consumption: 1.2V
Notable Features: Higher speeds, larger capacities, better power efficiency, and improved data integrity features.

DDR5 (Double Data Rate 5)

Introduced: 2020
Clock Speed: Starting at 4800 MHz and expected to go higher
Memory Size: Typically up to 32GB per stick (with higher capacities available)
Power Consumption: 1.1V
Notable Features: Even higher speeds and capacities, further reduced power consumption and advanced features for improved performance and efficiency.

Comparing DDR3 and DDR4 RAM

DDR3 RAM was first introduced in 2007, providing a significant leap in performance over its predecessor, DDR2. It offered higher clock speeds and larger capacities, which were crucial for the increasingly demanding software over time. DDR4, launched in 2014, continued this trend, bringing even higher speeds, greater capacities, and improved power efficiency.

Differences Between DDR3 and DDR4

Clock Speed

RAM speed, or frequency, affects how quickly data can be processed. Higher speeds can improve game performance, especially in scenarios involving large textures and complex computations. Here is a breakdown of different RAM speeds and their impact on gaming:

DDR3 RAM:

800-1066MHz: Suitable for older, less demanding games. Examples include games like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim or Minecraft.
1333-1600MHz: Common in mid-range gaming PCs, adequate for many games from the previous decade. Suitable for titles like The Witcher 3 or Grand Theft Auto V.
1866-2133MHz: High-performance DDR3 used in gaming PCs for more demanding games. Suitable for titles like Fallout 4 or Far Cry 4.

DDR4 RAM:

2133-2400 MHz: Entry-level DDR4, sufficient for general gaming, Suitable for less demanding or older games like Fortnite or Overwatch.
2666-3000 MHz: Standard in many gaming PCs, offers good performance for most modern games. Suitable for titles like Assassin Creed Odyssey or Shadow of the Tomb Raider.
3200-3600 MHz: High-end gaming for enthusiasts and competitive gamers. Suitable for titles like Cyberpunk 2077 or Call of Duty: Warzone.
3600-4000 MHz and above Extreme performance for cutting-edge gaming setups and overclocking. Suitable for top-tier games with high graphics settings and VR games, like Microsoft Flight Simulator or Half-Life: Alyx.
4200-4800 MHz: Extreme performance for cutting-edge gaming setups and overclocking, seen in top-tier gaming rigs like Alienware Aurora R10 and custom-built high-performance PCs.

Memory Size

The maximum capacity of DDR3 modules typically reaches up to 8GB per stick, with most motherboards supporting up to 32GB. In contrast, DDR4 modules can range from 16GB to 32GB per stick, and some motherboards can support 64GB to 128GB or more. Having ample RAM is beneficial for gaming as it supports multitasking and ensures smooth performance in memory-intensive games.

DDR3 Memory Sizes and Typical Usage:
- 4GB: Minimum for basic gaming.
- 8GB: Standard for mid-range gaming setups.
- 16GB: High-end gaming for smoother performance and multitasking.
DDR4 Memory Sizes and Typical Usage:
- 8GB: Entry-level, sufficient for many games.
- 16GB: Standard for most gaming PCs, allows for multitasking.
- 32GB: High-end gaming for enthusiasts and streamers using advanced setups.
- 64GB and above: Extreme multitasking and future-proofing for top-tier gaming and content creation

Power Consumption

DDR4 RAM is an improved memory technology compared to DDR3. It operates at a lower voltage (1.2V, as opposed to DDR3 1.5V), resulting in better power efficiency. Additionally, the voltage helps reduce heat generation, contributing to system stability and longevity.

Performance Impact:

In real-world gaming scenarios, DDR4 demonstrates a noticeable performance advantage over DDR3. Games that rely on fast data processing and large memory capacities benefit significantly from DDR4 enhancements. Consistent benchmark comparisons reveal that DDR4 outperforms in terms of DDR3 frame rates and loading times, making it the preferred choice for modern gaming rigs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing RAM

Compatibility

Before purchasing RAM, ensure compatibility with your motherboard and CPU. Check your motherboard specifications for supported RAM types, speeds, and maximum capacity. Using incompatible RAM can lead to system instability or boot failure. Ensuring compatibility prevents bottlenecks and ensures efficient system performance. Visit our product page for step-by-step instructions on checking and installing RAM in your PC.

Capacity

The capacity of your RAM significantly impacts gaming performance:

8GB: Minimum recommended for gaming. Suitable for basic tasks and less demanding games, but may struggle with newer, high-end titles.
16GB: Sweet spot for most gamers, Enables seamless multitasking, supports modern games well, and offers some future-proofing.
32GB or more: Ideal for enthusiasts and streamers. Supports heavy multitasking, runs multiple applications simultaneously, and handles the most demanding games without performance issues.

Speed

DDR3 RAM:

800-1066 MHz: Suitable for older, less demanding games. Examples include games like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim or Minecraft.
1333-1600 MHz: Common in mid-range gaming PCs, adequate for many games from the previous decade. Suitable for titles like The Witcher 3 or Grand Theft Auto V.
1866-2133 MHz: High-performance DDR3 used in gaming PCs for more demanding games. Suitable for titles like Fallout 4 or Far Cry 4.

DDR4 RAM:

2133-2400 MHz: Entry-level DDR4, sufficient for general gaming, Suitable for less demanding or older games like Fortnite or Overwatch.
2666-3000 MHz: Standard in many gaming PCs, offers good performance for most modern games. Suitable for titles like Assassin's Creed Odyssey or Shadow of the Tomb Raider.
3200-3600 MHz: High-end gaming for enthusiasts and competitive gamers. Suitable for titles like Cyberpunk 2077 or Call of Duty: Warzone.
3600-4000 MHz and above Extreme performance for cutting-edge gaming setups and overclocking. Suitable for top-tier games with high graphics settings and VR games, like Microsoft Flight Simulator or Half-Life: Alyx.

Latency

CAS latency (CL) measures the delay between a command being given and the data being available. Lower latency values are better, but their impact on gaming performance is generally less significant than clock speed and capacity:

CL14 to CL16: These are common latencies for DDR4 RAM. A lower latency can contribute to slightly better performance, but the difference may not be noticeable in all games.

Future-Proofing

Investing in higher-capacity and faster RAM can help future-proof your system, ensuring it can handle upcoming games and software updates without needing an upgrade shortly:

Higher Capacity and Speed: As games and applications become more demanding, having ample RAM (e.g., 32GB) and faster speeds (e.g., 3600 MHz) ensures your system can handle intensive tasks and keep up with advancements in gaming and computing technology over time.
Anticipating Game Requirements: Given the trend of games requiring more memory for better textures and smoother gameplay, investing in robust RAM can save you from frequent upgrades.

Game Performance and RAM

Different games have varying RAM requirements to achieve optimal FPS (frames per second):

Basic Games: Games like "Fortnite" or "Minecraft" run well with 8GB of RAM, though 16GB ensures no performance dips during intense gameplay.
Modern AAA Titles: Games such as Cyberpunk 2077 or Red Dead Redemption 2 benefit from 16GB of RAM for stable performance with 32GB providing extra headroom for streaming or running background applications.
High-End Games: For the latest high-end games, including VR titles and those with large, open-world environments, 32GB of RAM is ideal for maintaining high FPS and smooth gameplay.

By carefully considering compatibility, capacity, speed, latency, and future-proofing, you can choose the best RAM for your gaming PC. It ensures optimal performance and longevity. Visit our product page for step-by-step instructions on checking and installing RAM in your PC.

DDR4 vs DDR3: Which One Should You Choose?

Benefits of DDR4 over DDR3

DDR4 offers higher speeds, larger capacities, and better power efficiency than DDR3. These improvements translate to better gaming performance, reduced power consumption, and improved system stability.

Situations Where DDR3 Might Still Be Viable

If you are upgrading an older system or working within a tight budget, DDR3 can still be a viable option. It offers reasonable performance for less demanding games and can be more cost-effective than DDR4.

Final Recommendations

For new builds and modern gaming PCs, DDR4 is the clear choice. Its superior performance, capacity, and efficiency make it the best option for gamers looking to get the most out of their hardware.

Tips for Optimising RAM Performance

BIOS Settings

Adjusting your BIOS settings can help optimise RAM performance. Ensure your RAM is running at its rated speed by enabling XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) settings in the BIOS.

Overclocking RAM

Overclocking can push your RAM beyond its standard speed, offering additional performance. However, it comes with risks, including potential instability and increased heat generation. Proceed with caution and ensure proper cooling.

Monitoring RAM Usage

Use tools like Task Manager, HW Monitor, or third-party software to monitor RAM usage and performance. It can help you identify any bottlenecks and optimise your system accordingly.

Conclusion

Choosing the right RAM for your gaming PC involves understanding the basics, comparing different types, and considering factors like compatibility, capacity, speed, and future-proofing. While DDR3 can still be suitable for older systems, DDR4 is the go-to choice for modern gaming rigs.

By making an informed decision and optimising your RAM's performance, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience. Stay updated on the latest RAM technologies to keep your system running at its best.