Can Any RAM Work With Any Motherboard?
RAM or Random Access Memory is one of the most crucial components of the PC. Without RAM, your computer won’t work. However, knowing that buying the right RAM that’s actually compatible with the motherboard is challenging for many. So now, you must have a simple question in mind- can any RAM work with any motherboard?
Let me explain the answer to you in detail.
Will Any RAM Work With Any Motherboard?
Are all RAMs compatible with all motherboards and vice versa? Then know that sadly it isn’t. The reality is that motherboards can only support one or the other kind of RAM. So it would be best if you were careful before going to buy your motherboard and RAM.
Why Do Motherboards Support Only One Kind Of RAM?
Know that different types of RAMs have different kinds of physical setup and appearances. So a DDR3 RAM is additional from DDR4 RAM. This is not just in functionality but also in looks. Know that the kind of socket a DDR3 RAM needs differs from the one that a DDR4 RAM needs.
Also, keep in mind that motherboards come with the RAM slots already soldered on. So there is no way you will be able to exchange a DDR3 slot for a DDR4 one.
As such, if you buy a motherboard that only supports DDR3 RAM, there’s no way you will be able to fit DDR4 RAM in it. So, it’s advised that you check your motherboard’s configuration and what RAM it supports before buying it.
Which Is Better- DDR3 or DDR4 RAM?
In short- if you are upgrading your PC or building a new one, then DDR4 is the option to choose. After all, DDR4 offers more incredible speed over DDR3 and is also better at power saving too. This is because DDR4 works at only 1.2V, compared to the 1.4 or 1.5V of DDR3.
Another advantage of DDR4 is that it doesn’t need the kind of intensive cooling that DDR3 needs. So overall, DDR4 is indeed the better choice. However, DDR4 is more expensive than DDR3. But the price is worth it for the upgrades that you will get
How to Find Out the Specifications of the Motherboard?
You will generally find the specs of your motherboard in the instruction manual that came with it. But if you don’t have that, then there are other ways too. The chances are that you will find the needed information on the manufacturer’s website.
However, if you don’t know about the system specs or can’t find them online on the manufacturer’s website, there’s no need to worry. There are plenty of apps you can download and install, which will tell you your entire system’s specs.
No RAM can be compatible with any motherboard. You need to understand that every motherboard comes with set sockets and slots that can only accommodate one RAM type. So it’s advised that you check your motherboard specs before buying it.
READ MORE: How Much Should I Spend on a Motherboard?
About the Author Michael E. Yates
Hi! The words you are going to read comes from me! A geek passionately and a writer of 5+ years professionally. If you ask about my likings, well, I love to tag along with upcoming technology trends. Though I also have contributed to many more technology sites through my writings. If you ask about my dreams, then one of them is finding an instant solution for every device malfunction, so I am creating a blog post. A blog post that will help more people like me. I, introduce thepcstuff.com the result of my hard work and patience. Do not worry, with me and my team behind the computers will make sure every vital information related to technology reaches all of you people. So, if you are ready to go on an adventurous ride with thepcstuff.com and me, let's get started!
