DDR4 Vs DDR5 is one of the biggest debates going on among every modern PC builder. DDR4 and DDR5 are actually two different iterations of DDR (Double Data Rate) and are being used in almost all the modern computers in the world. While they share the same basic function, DDR4 and DDR5 offer distinct specifications and advantages, often leaving users puzzled about which option to select.
Besides these fundamental specifications, understanding other factors like pricing can also help to know which RAM is better for your PC. In this article, I’ll simply compare these DDR4 Vs DDR5 factors to make things easier for you. Let’s start.
What is DDR?
Before starting the debate of DDR4 vs DDR5, it is important to know what DDR actually is. It is a form of SDRAM designed to transfer data from the CPU to your computer’s memory. DDR is an advanced form of SDRAM that offers double the performance since it can transfer data both on the rising and falling edges of a clock signal.
DDR was invented in 2000 and has gone through different iterations over time that are:
- DDR1
- DDR2
- DDR3
- DDR4
- DDR5
Just like every newer version of GPU or CPU offers better performance, each DDR iteration offers better performance compared to the predecessor. However, DDR3 and below versions are the things of the ancient world. 4 and 5 versions are ruling the market with 4 being the most common one.
What is DDR4?
DDR4 is the 4th iteration, or version, of the DDR system offering high-speed data transferring speeds along with improved energy consumption efficiency. There’s a huge gap between the 3rd and the 4th generation which is the reason why it’s abundant in the market.
What is DDR5?
DDR5 is the 5th iteration of DDR which offers better energy efficiency and data transfer speed. Unlike the difference between the 3rd and 4th iterations, the gap between 4th and 5th isn’t as big. Still, it can make a lot of difference while using different applications on a computer.
Key Differences Between DDR4 and DDR5:
The details of these key differences are given below:
Memory bandwidth:
A primary difference between DDR4 vs DDR5 RAM is memory bandwidth (speed, in simple words). The latest version of DDR4 works offers a data transfer speed of 3200MHz and it was 2133MHz at the beginning.
On the other hand, DDR5 offers twice the performance offering a data transfer speed of 6400MHz. It is the current memory bandwidth and many companies are trying to increase this speed. So, things might surprise us in the future.
Voltage:
The second noticeable difference between these iterations is the voltage or the way they consume power. DDR4 has built-in power management systems in its motherboard. On the other hand, DDR5 has a separate power management system for each module.
As a result, 5th iteration is better when it comes to power consumption compared to DDR5. However, DDR5 shows heating issues so experts advise using proper cooling systems while using these RAMs.
Memory capacity:
The memory capacity of both iterations is also important to understand. A single module/unit of DDR4 RAM can be as high as 32GB. On the other hand, one DDR5 module can offer 128GB memory capacity which is four times more.
So, you will need four modules of a DDR4 in your system to get a memory capacity that can be replaced with only a single DDR5 module.
Price:
The pricing factor is a little controversial between these two RAM types. Obviously, DDR5 is more expensive being the latest edition with better features. However, the point here is about the value it provides.
In other words, people question whether or not a DDR5 RAM brings benefits that justify its price tag. Some agree and some don’t depend on the context and use cases.
Another confusing point here is that some versions of DDR4 are more expensive than DDR5 which makes no sense to many people.
DDR Vs DDR5 – A Head-to-Head Comparison:
| Feature | DDR4 | DDR5 |
| Memory Bandwidth | Up to 3200 MHz | Up to 6400 MHz |
| Voltage | 1.2V | 1.1V |
| Memory Capacity per Module | Up to 32GB | Up to 128GB |
| Power Efficiency | Lower | Higher |
| Price (On Average) | $50 for 32GB | $100 for 32GB |
Which One Should You Choose for Your PC?
In a nutshell, DDR5 is clearly a better-performing RAM compared to DDR4. It’s more efficient, handles voltage better, and has more memory capacity. However, we need to discuss things contextually here for the best pick for you.
If you’re building a modern new PC, you should definitely go for a DDR5. However, if you already own a PC with decent specifications, adding a DDR5 might not bring satisfactory benefits compared to the money you’ll spend on it.
It will only max out performance value to a small percentage in different games and applications. Otherwise, you might not even notice the difference at all. So, in this scenario, sticking with the DDR4 will be a better choice.
Conclusion:
Understanding the DDR4 Vs DDR5 debate is important if you’re building a PC. To sum it all up, DDR4 and DDR5 are two different iterations of DDR RAMs with the latter being the latest one. DDR5 offers better performance and energy efficiency along with memory capacity. DDR4, on the other hand, offers great performance as well and is being abundantly used in the market.
The performance difference between them might not be very large but the price gap certainly is. So, it is advised you only buy DDR5 while building a new PC from scratch. Otherwise, DDR4 will give you a satisfactory performance at half the price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Does DDR5 offer better gaming performance?
Yes. DDR5 offers better gaming performance due to its advanced features.
Is the performance difference between these RAM types noticeable?
Barely. You will need a close observation to spot the difference.
Is DDR4 good for new PCs?
Yes. It’s good for building new a new rig. However, throwing in some extra bucks for a DDR5 will be a better choice in this scenario.
