If you know the difference between laptop and desktop RAM? Or are you interested in upgrading your current computer’s ram? RAM (random access memory), is often overlooked by computer enthusiasts when it comes to purchasing new parts. It’s an easy thing to forget about, and it’s even easier not to know the difference between laptop and desktop ram, and where each of them stand in terms of performance. In this article, we will compare the two types of memory and discuss why desktop RAM is often preferred over laptop ram.
When comparing laptop and desktop ram, there are four different aspects to consider: physical size, memory capacity, speed and voltage.
Performance
The main difference of performance between laptop and desktop ram is that desktop memories had a higher performance in terms of transfer rate. New technologies have equalized these differences, but the other three factors still exist. In general, laptop memories have smaller capacities than their desktop counterparts since they use much less power. Also, when considering RAM for your next computer purchase remember that not all models support both types of memories. For example if you buy a Mac Pro you can only use Apple-certified laptop memory in it. Desktop computers often come with a fixed amount of RAM which is already installed at time of manufacturing and cannot be upgraded. Laptops, on the other hand, almost always allow users to upgrade their RAM.
The table below summarizes the key differences between laptop and desktop ram:
Laptop Desktop
-Smaller physical size -Standard size for computer components
-Less memory capacity -More memory capacity
-Slower speed -Faster speed
–1.5v voltage -3.3v or 5v voltage
Overall, laptop memories are cheaper and smaller with slower speeds and lower voltages. Desktop memories are faster, larger and more expensive. If you’re looking for a powerful machine with upgradable parts, desktop RAM is your best bet. But if you’re looking for something lightweight with portability in mind, laptop RAM is your best choice.
When you are trying to improve your media center or office desktop computer with some extra ram, don’t expect it to make a major difference unless you’re attempting to play games or run multiple applications with heavy graphics at the same time (e.g., video editing). Generally increasing your computer’s RAM will help improve its performance when opening up many windows at once, playing graphically intense games, or encoding audio/video files.
Although there are advantages for laptops to have less memory since it can result in a decrease in weight, faster battery drain and heat production, if you’re not doing any of the things mentioned above then you will likely want to go with more standard desktop memory. For most users, 8GB of RAM is a great place to start for general use. If you are someone who likes to keep a lot of programs open simultaneously or run games, then you may want to consider upgrading your ram up to 16 or even 32GB.
Types Of RAM
When looking at the different types of ram on the market, there are generally two categories: DDR3 and DDR4. DDR4 is the newer technology and has higher speeds than DDR3, but it can also be more expensive. If your computer is a few years old, it’s likely that it uses DDR3 ram, so be sure to double check before making your purchase.
When upgrading or purchasing new ram for your computer, the most important factor to consider is the type of memory that is compatible with your motherboard. You can find this information by looking up your motherboard’s model number and then searching for “memory” on the website. For example, if you have a GA-78LMT-USB3 motherboard, you would search “GA-78LMT-USB3 memory” on the Gigabyte website.
Another thing to keep in mind when selecting new ram is the voltage. Most desktop memories operate at 3.3 volts, but there are some that require 5 volts. Laptop memories usually use 1.5 volts.
