So you’re wondering if DDR5 RAM is worth it? We at PC ZONE get just as curious as you with every new advancement that can benefit our insatiable thirst for more frames. DDR5 RAM is no exception.
We all know memory is one of the most critical components in any computer. Memory (RAM) determines how fast and efficiently your computer can operate your active applications. The faster and bigger your memory, the quicker your device can respond to commands and access files in storage.
With DDR5 RAM now available, what does this mean for PCs and, most importantly, gaming?
What is DDR5 RAM?
DDR5 is the new cutting-edge standard of dynamic random-access memory (DRAM). It’s an upgrade from DDR4 that offers increased bandwidth efficiency, improved performance at small data transfer sizes, and lower operating voltage. Let’s quickly break it down.
DDR5 RAM vs. DDR4 RAM
Compared to DDR4, the industry gold standard since 2014, DDR5 has been developed with a focus on low power consumption to complement its insanely high performance.
For example, DDR4 memory can transfer data anywhere between 1.6 to 3.2 Gbps. DDR5, on the other hand, operates between 4.8 to 8.4 Gbps.
So not only is DDR5 madly faster than DDR4, but it’s a lot less power-hungry. So, all you Kale eaters out there need not worry about Mother Earth quite so much when sporting a DDR5-equipped rig.
The main benefits of DDR5 RAM
1. Capacity
A single die of DDR4 maxes out at 16GB, whereas DDR5 ups the ante to 64GB. That’s insanely more capacity than boring old DDR4. With programmes demanding more memory than ever before, DDR5 is far more future-proof.
2. Speed
DDR5 is a lot faster, with clock frequencies up to double that of DDR4, meaning it can complete tasks faster than ever before. This is particularly important for multitasking.
If you’re working on a project and want to switch to another program, you want to do it as quickly as possible. DDR5 RAM will allow you to have more programs and Porn Hub tabs open at once without your computer slowing down. Neat!
3. Bandwidth efficiency
Bandwidth is essentially the amount of data that can be sent through a device over a specific period of time. Regarding memory modules, bandwidth is usually measured in gigabytes per second (Gbps). The higher the bandwidth, the greater the amount of data that can be sent and received simultaneously.
DDR5 has roughly double the bandwidth of DDR4 and a higher bandwidth efficiency, which means that it’s better at processing small data packages. This is important for devices like smartphones and tablets, which are increasingly being used for everyday tasks like completing online purchases and watching videos.
4. Improved performance at small data transfer sizes
One of the biggest challenges that DDR5 has to overcome is signal integrity. This refers to the ability of a signal to maintain its integrity during transmission through a medium. When the signal degrades, it leads to errors. DDR4 has a higher error rate regarding small data transfer sizes, so some devices use a slower transfer rate while processing small data packages.
DDR5 features a tech called on-die ECC (Error Correction Code) that detects mistakes in data sets, providing end-to-end protection against single-bit errors that could occur at any point in the memory transfer operation.
5. Lower operating voltage
Operating voltage refers to the voltage required for a device to operate. The lower the voltage, the less energy it uses. DDR4 RAM operates at 1.2 volts, whereas DDR5 RAM operates at 1.1 volts. While this may seem small, it makes a big difference. A lower voltage means that the modules will generate less heat while they are in operation.
Command/Address (CA) signalling changes from SSTL to the PODL standard, which burns no static power when the pins are parked in a high state.
DDR5 RAM specific benefits to gamers – clock frequencies and lower latency
When you’re playing the latest first-person shooter or fast-paced racing game, the last thing you want is sluggish performance that gets in the way of your epic virtual adventures.
Faster memory speeds may enable your computer to manage your active programs more quickly, with fewer background interruptions as assets are loaded in and out of RAM. However, does DDR5 make a difference to the core game experience? Yes, but only if you purchase modules that take advantage of higher clock speeds and, crucially, lower latencies.
Latency is the time between a command being issued and being executed successfully. For gamers who love their high-end graphics combined with insane FPS, lowering latency can be as important as higher clock speeds when squeezing out a few more precious frames.
DDR5 RAM compatibility and price points
As with virtually every new computer tech, you’ll need new motherboard hardware to use it.
Intel’s 12th gen “Alder Lake” CPUs are compatible with DDR5, meaning you’ll need an LGA1700 socket board to operate it. These boards are also backwards compatible with DDR4.
As for AMD, you’re out of luck until the company launches its 7000 series processors this autumn.
As for prices? Well, you’ll be paying a hefty premium to jump on the DDR5 bandwagon, with prices still close to double that of a DDR4 capacity equivalent as of this writing (June 2022).
With supply chains (hopefully) stabilising over the coming months and memory costs decreasing, prices should continue to drop to close to DDR4 levels over the coming year.
Wrapping up – do I need DDR5 RAM for high-end gaming??
Is DDR5 RAM worth it? Well, it won’t revolutionise your gaming experience in the short term. Higher clocks and lower latencies are great, but more critical components (such as the GPU and CPU) will have a bigger impact on your gaming experience should you upgrade them.
This latest standard of DRAM is a significant evolution over its predecessors. DDR5 sports higher clock speeds and better bandwidth efficiency compared to DDR4. It also has a lower operating voltage and improved performance when processing small data packages.
But with DDR5 RAM being so new, few games will be optimised to take advantage of its potential. At least for a while.
It’s a nice tech to have (especially if you love to show off) and will make it into your next PC build. But it’s not worth ditching what you have already to accommodate it. You’re better saving up for that stupidly expensive GPU instead.
