Working memory, or RAM, directly affects how smoothly a computer handles open programs, browser tabs and games. This category has memory for desktops (UDIMM), laptops (SO-DIMM) and server use (R-DIMM) – modules of both the DDR4 and DDR5 generations, as single sticks and as two-stick kits, from the Patriot, G.SKILL and Goodram line-ups among others. Check at least these before buying: the memory type (DDR4 or DDR5) – set by the motherboard and the processor, and the generations are not compatible with each other; the module format – DIMM for a desktop, the shorter SO-DIMM for a laptop; the capacity – 8 GB is enough for light everyday use, 16 GB for gaming and 32 GB for heavier work; and the clock speed (MHz) and latency (CL), which are worth matching to the speeds your motherboard supports. A two-stick kit, 2 × 16 GB for example, enables dual channel mode, which improves performance compared with a single stick.
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Working memory, or RAM, directly affects how smoothly a computer handles open programs, browser tabs and games. This category has memory for desktops (UDIMM), laptops (SO-DIMM) and server use (R-DIMM) – modules of both the DDR4 and DDR5 generations, as single sticks and as two-stick kits, from the Patriot, G.SKILL and Goodram line-ups among others. Check at least these before buying: the memory type (DDR4 or DDR5) – set by the motherboard and the processor, and the generations are not compatible with each other; the module format – DIMM for a desktop, the shorter SO-DIMM for a laptop; the capacity – 8 GB is enough for light everyday use, 16 GB for gaming and 32 GB for heavier work; and the clock speed (MHz) and latency (CL), which are worth matching to the speeds your motherboard supports. A two-stick kit, 2 × 16 GB for example, enables dual channel mode, which improves performance compared with a single stick.