Laptop Memory
Random Access Memory, usually abbreviated as RAM, is one of the most crucial components of any computing device. Modern Computers either desktops or laptops as well as tablets and smartphones typically incorporate RAM that ranges from 2GB up to 32GB, while some possess even more. But how many types of RAM are there? What are different types of RAMs according to bandwidth and capacity?
The Difference in DIMM, SODIMM, and MicroDIMM
Dual In-line Memory Modules abbreviated as DIMM can be found as the following memory modules.
- Unbuffered DIMM
- Registered DIMM
- SO-DIMM
- MicroDIMM.
These memory modules possess a different number of memory components attached to a circuit board with gold pins on the interface to provide a high-conductivity connection between the RAM strip and a socket on a motherboard. All are used as a Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM) in a computer with notable differences like:
- An Unbuffered DIMM is a memory module used in desktop PCs.
- A Registered DIMM is a memory module used in network servers and high-performing computer systems.
- A SO-DIMM (Small Outline Dual In-line Memory Module) is a memory module that is smaller in structure and thickness compared to the aforementioned memory modules and is introduced specifically for laptop PCs.
- A MicroDIMM is a memory module with much a smaller and slim structure than standard SO-DIMM memory and is used in tablets and smartphones or sometimes very slim notebook PCs.
Types of SODIMM according to the Physical Appearance
Normally, SO-DIMMs can be recognized by their physical appearance that involves distinctive notches and fewer pins compare to their regular DIMM counterparts:
- 100-pin SO-DIMMs: They are SDR laptop memory and have two notches.
- 144-pin SO-DIMMs: They are SDR laptop memory and have a single notch near the center.
- 200-pin SO-DIMMs: They can be either DDR or DDR2 laptop memory with a single notch nearer to one end. The exact location of this notch may vary based on generation.
- 204-pin SO-DIMMs: They are DDR3 laptop memory with a single notch near to the center (not right in the middle).
- 260-pin SO-DIMMs: These are the latest-gen DDR4 laptop memory. These modules are 69.6 mm in width and 30 mm vertical dimension; that is 2 mm wider than DDR3 SO-DIMMs, with a single notch after pin 144.
- 260-pin SO-DIMMs: These UniDIMM modules are 69.6 mm (2.74 inches) in width and 30 mm (1.2 inches) or 20 mm (0.79 inches) in height, with a single notch, lies in a different location than DDR3 modules.
Criteria of choosing appropriate RAM
A lot of people think that 8GB of memory is the bare minimum to be used with Windows 10. It’s easier to find budget-friendly Windows 10 laptops and notebooks that feature just 8GB of DRAM. As far as the routine tasks are concerned such as moderate gaming, and internet browsing on multiple tabs, 8GB DDR3 or DDR4 laptop memory can perform well. But that’s not a choice when it comes to heavy workloads and high-performance games.
For instance, online surfing using multiple tabs can engage 50% of the memory and Windows 10 is alone responsible for engaging 2GB laptop memory. It left the remaining programs with very little or no capacity, such as PC games or video editing tools. Even the modern web browsers can ease the burden when other programs start suffocating due to less memory capacity. This deadlock of resources can make your work experience slow and dull.
To dodge such issues it is recommended for laptop users to acquire 16GB of SO-DIMM laptop memory if they want to perform multitasking and sustain moderate workloads. 16GB of SO-DIMM laptop memory is enough to curb the aforementioned performance gaps. 32GB of SO-DIMM laptop memory is the savior
for heavy gamers or those running memory-draining software tools such as video editing platforms.
On the other hand, software programs and tools that run optimally with 64GB or more are generally designed for AI and machine learning experts who already have a clear idea about their requirements.
Difference of extended RAM slots in Laptop compare to Desktop
Most laptop motherboards feature a total of 2 to 3 slots for SO-DIMM RAM. For instance, if your laptop has 4GB of RAM, it probably uses two 4GB modules of RAM in two separate slots. It interns compromises the space for the user to add multiple RAM strips.
On contrary, the desktop PCs possess slots that are highly scalable; that is, their RAM can easily be increased or decreased. Due to spacious dimensions, desktop motherboards possess several additional RAM slots, typically ranges from two to eight. For example, your desktop PC has 8GB of DDR2 or DDR3 memory, 4GB in each separate slot. It will still spare a decent number of empty slots to add more memory strips.
Renowned Laptop Memory Manufactures
- Samsung - Samsung is the top manufacturer of DRAM, famous for its laptop memory that promises innovation and boosts performance in various computing solutions, from gaming to heavy workloads of AI and Machine Learning. Samsung laptop memory is considered the best-selling SO-DIMM laptop memory, for its 16GB and 8GB laptop memory
- HP - Also known as Hewlett Packard became famous decades ago with the development of a programmable calculator, is another top-notch SO-DIMM laptop memory manufacturer. HP Labs are all about driving discovery and innovation with a clear purpose. HP 16GB laptop RAM is a widely used laptop memory around the globe that offers high performance and clock frequency with its newer-gen infrastructures. HP laptop memory is the trusted product among individuals who are eager to customize and configure their PCs for high-performance workloads
- Micron - Micron laptop memory is the best choice for portable computing systems that ranges from laptops, standard notebooks to tablets
RAM Differences In Performance
The most significant difference between the different generations of RAM is the performance output in terms of speed or clock frequency. As technology is skyrocketing, the performance is also touching the new summits, and this has grown quickly from generation after generation
That’s why there is an obvious difference between DDR3 and DDR4 laptop memory. This difference is very crucial as it not only reflects in physical attributes but also in performance that users experience while using one desktop with one memory or another. As we have discussed, it is important to employ an appropriate RAM as per the requirements and the applications the one is going to use. If you’re going to buy a laptop then it is crucial for you to choose the system with at least 8GB laptop RAM as a perfect baseline option. For heavy workloads and gaming, it is recommended to use at least 16GB DDR4 laptop memory or the upper generation. By doing so, one can never regret when it to speed and performance.
