While I’m an advocate of running PC games at the highest settings possible, I like to know I’m getting those speeds for the right price.
A year or two ago, putting a pin in your DDR5 RAM consideration would have been my straight answer. Its performance gains were not big enough to justify its sky-high price.
But DDR5 prices are now bottoming out at reasonable prices for retail consumers, and more CPUs are now equipped to get a lot more out of the RAM standard.
I’ll help you determine whether it’s the right time to future-proof your computer or stick with your current configuration. If you’re in the market for a new board, this article will also lay all the cards on the table to help you make the sensible choice.
What is DDR?
DDR (double data rate) is a type of SDRAM (synchronous dynamic random-access memory), a memory standard that relays data between your system memory and CPU synchronously. It was an upgrade over DRAM when it was introduced by Samsung in 1992.
What is DDR4?
DDR4 is the 4th generation of DDR. It has the ability to utilize four DIMM slots on motherboards at once and increase the size limit of each module to 32GB among other improvements over DDR3.
What is DDR5?
DDR5 is the successor to DDR4. It increases RAM capacity per module and allows up to 2TB on one stick in enterprise applications. It also splits DDR4’s single 64-bit channel into two 32-bit channels for better data transfer efficiency.
So is DDR5 better than DDR4? Let’s find out.
DDR5 vs. DDR4: What Is the Difference?
Knowing the difference between DDR4 and DDR5 is almost as significant as looking at Intel vs. AMD. It directs the kind of PC configuration you choose and influences your budget. We’ll start with the basics for the sake of less-experienced users who may wonder why these comparisons are such a big deal.
DDR4 vs. DDR5: Performance Comparison
One major difference between DDR4 and DDR5 is the significant performance data. However, people measure “performance” by varying metrics, from bandwidth and latency to capacity and speed.
That said, let’s get into the different aspects of the DDR5 vs. DDR4 performance face-off.
| DDR4 | DDR5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Up to 4000 MT/s or MHz | Up to 8800 MT/s or MHz |
| Bandwidth | 24 GB/s | Up to 69 GB/s |
| Capacity | Up to 32GB | Up to 128GB |
| Latency (lower is better) | 16 | 32 |
The most significant rating for memory standards is speed. This differentiator is usually measured in MHz, the new way people represent megatransfers per second (MT/s). Both units are conveniently used interchangeably since the indicative performance numbers are the same.
According to JEDEC (Joint Electron Device Engineering Council), DDR4 memory sticks start at 1600MHz and max out at 3200MHz. However, we never really saw DDR4-1600, as it started at a baseline of DDR4-2133. But XMP (extreme memory profile) technology (a memory overclocking feature) allows DDR4 to go as high as 5000MHz.
DDR5, on the other hand, starts at 3200MHz, per JEDEC, and reaches a theoretical peak of 6400. But like DDR4, we expect retail DDR5 units to start at 4800MHz, faster than the fastest mainstream DDR4 offering. A mid-range DDR5 module will go beyond 5600MHz, which will still be faster than the rare, overclocked high-end DDR4 sticks.
On top of that, most manufacturers are already showing off modules with speeds that far exceed the DDR5 cap. We should expect to see the fastest DDR5 RAM go beyond 8000MHz.
Memory bandwidth measures the amount of data a memory stick can transfer at a given time and is measured in gigabytes per second (GB/s). It is related to a memory clock rate because the speed at which the memory module transfers data determines how much it can transmit over a period.
So, the higher the clock rate (MT/s or MHz), the more data can be transmitted. With DDR5’s higher speeds, you should expect it to feed your CPU more data in less time.
Latency is another important aspect of performance where DDR5 doesn’t quite shine. The next-gen tech’s higher speeds and bandwidth hurt its timings and cause significant delays compared to DDR4.
However, one can argue that the high transfer rates and bandwidth compensate for the latency shortfall. Once data starts changing hands, people using DDR5 will experience faster executions. Still, the real-world impact might be clearer on the mid-range to lower DDR5 tiers.
Gamers can already enjoy the best performance using higher-tiered DDR4 sticks, as long as they pair them with one of the best SSDs for gaming, including CPUs and GPUs. But they can even push the envelope further with DDR5 to maintain steady and smooth 4K and demanding gameplay.
For example, Techspot’s benchmarks for Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty saw an 8.6% difference in DDR5’s favor at 1080p and a meager 1.3% bump in performance at 1440p.
However, for Watch Dogs: Legion, the difference between DDR4 and DDR5 in average frame rate at 1080p and 1440p was roughly 12%.
Numbers released by PCGamesN for F1 23 also showed minimal games over DDR4, with a mere 3% bump in performance.
According to benchmarks run by Digital Trends, you can only see real performance differences in the Geekbench tests.
It’s when you focus on things like compression and photo editing that you see wild performance gains.
DDR4 vs. DDR5: RAM Capacity
DDR5 uses a denser die, which allows it to stack more memory cells in a smaller form factor. This architectural design is the reason it packs more memory capacities. DDR4 maxes out at 32GB, while DDR5 can easily carry 64GB of memory on one stick and reach highs of 128GB.
If RAM size is a big deal for you, then you should lean towards DDR5. However, since most motherboards now support 4 RAM slots, it’s easier to significantly expand your DDR4 RAM to accommodate how much RAM you need.
DDR4 vs. DDR5: Power and Thermals
Power and heat production is a mixed bag, as you can get better and worse performance with DDR5.
For starters, DDR5 does indeed demand less power than DDR4, as it requires 1.1V compared to the latter’s 1.2V. While you can argue that the difference is negligible, you can experience up to 20% less power draw.
However, things start getting complicated when you consider that the system memory voltage regulators are now baked onto the DDR5 memory modules rather than the motherboard. Marry that with the higher speeds and chip density, and you get modules that run significantly hotter.
Also read: How to Keep Your Windows 10/11 Laptop Cool While Gaming?
DDR4 vs. DDR5: Price Comparison
This should decide the DDR4 vs. DDR4 RAM debate for anyone. While DDR5 prices have generally settled down to affordable levels, they are still twice as expensive as DDR4 offerings in the same capacity.
For example, the DDR4 Corsair Vengeance 32GB (2x16GB) 3200MHz RAM costs $58 as of my last check on Corsair. Conversely, the DDR5 Vengeance 32GB (2x16GB) DRAM 4800MT/s CL40 Memory Kit — Black costs $99.
Modules with the same capacities and higher speeds cost much more. The fastest DDR5 RAM kits with higher memory sizes are priced north of $200. An example is the DDR5 Dominator Titanium RGB 32GB (2x16GB) CL34 Intel XMP Memory Kit with an MT/s of 7200MT/s.
You also have to account for the cost of a DDR5 motherboard you must buy. However, if you’re in the market for a new motherboard, the difference between both standards is negligible.
DDR5 vs. DDR4: Which One Should You Choose?
Before you decide what is better DDR5 or DDR4, here are some pointers to consider:
| DDR4 | DDR5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Better value at its lower price point | Still quite pricey for now |
| Compatibility | Does not work on DDR5 boards and with DDR5 AMD processors | Not compatible with DDR4 boards |
| Gaming performance | Still provides top-tier gaming performance | Negligible performance gains over DDR4 with comparable setups |
| Future-proofing | Will continue to meet users’ needs for quite some time | Only the currently higher-priced models provide decent future-proofing |
Point 1: Compatibility and budget: Is DDR5 worth it?
As mentioned, DDR5 is not backward compatible and won’t work on a DDR4 motherboard. You need a DDR5 motherboard to make the switch.
You’ll also need a new CPU if you currently do not have a 12th gen or later Intel processor or 7000 series or later AMD CPU.
If none of these upgrades fit into your budget, consider upgrading your DDR4 RAM instead if your current module is below 3200MHz and lacks XMP compatibility.
Point 2: Don’t buy DDR5 for gaming alone
For now, the biggest difference between DDR4 and DDR5 in gaming does not justify the huge price distinction. You can enjoy the same high-end smooth gaming as another gamer with DDR5, especially at peak settings.
Point 3: Future-proofing
If you have a budget that accommodates making the switch, going for a DDR5 RAM might be a sensible option, especially if your specific workload benefits from faster RAM.
Purchasing a DDR4 RAM right now is the cheaper option, but it means you will have to spend again to upgrade your RAM in a few years.
After all, DDR5 will replace DDR4 at some point. It’s just a matter of when.
Be that as it may, DDR5 hasn’t fully reached mainstream adoption, and better options will no doubt show up in the very near future. Plus, judging from history, prices will also come down.
When Is the Right Time to Move from DDR4 to DDR5?
As I mentioned, I believe DDR5 is still in its nascent stages and not fully matured. DDR4 is also not obsolete by any means, at least for a few more years.
If you buy a top-end DDR4 3200MHz (or even 4000MHz) RAM right now, you’ll get the best out of it long before the generation gets the last nail in its coffin. Coupled with XMP and Windows’ virtual memory feature, there’s hardly anything you can’t run on your current configuration.
For now, there are many 4800MHz and 5600MHz DDR5 kits around. DDR5 will come full circle when we start seeing 6000MHz configurations as mainstream opinions. That should be your window unless you have the budget to splurge on the 5600MHz option right now and buy the top tier later.
How to Upgrade from DDR4 RAM to DDR5 RAM
Upgrading to DDR5 from DDR4 involves changing your motherboard at least, and that’s if you currently have an Alder Lake Intel processor or later. If you have an earlier version of Intel, you also have to upgrade your CPU.
Let’s go through your checklists:
1. Required components
If you prefer Intel, you must go for one of its 12th, 13th, and 14th generation processors. The company’s Pentium Gold G7400 and G7400T CPUs are also DDR5-compatible. AMD enthusiasts can choose from its Ryzen 7000 series and later.
The next upgrades on the list are motherboards. Any DDR5-compatible motherboard should do.
For example, motherboards with the LGA1700 may be getting support for longer than 2 generations, but that may be about it. You can choose the newer LGA1851 option for longevity. You’re mostly safe with AMD, as their boards are supported for longer.
2. Install DDR5 RAM
Installing DDR5 RAM is the same as installing DDR4 sticks. Here’s how:
- Unlatch your DIMM slots. Some motherboards may have just one latch.
- Secure your RAM stick into the slot and ensure they fit into the sides of the latch.
- Press down until the latch snaps onto the sides of the RAM sticks.
- That’s it. Repeat the process for other sticks.
Common Issues with DDR5 and Troubleshooting Tips
The most common issue I’ve seen users complain about is their computers entering a boot loop after installing their DDR5 RAM sticks. This particular problem happens mostly on Intel motherboards for the following reasons:
- Wrong XMP configuration.
- DDR5 sticks from different manufacturers.
- Misconfigured voltage allocations in the BIOS.
Most motherboard manufacturers have since released BIOS updates to fix issues for people struggling with boot loops and other DDR5-related problems. However, if you still keep experiencing glitches after updating the BIOS, do the following:
Head to your BIOS, select a new XMP profile (usually XMP 1) that would reflect your configuration, and change DRAM VDD Voltage and DRAM VDDQ Voltage to 1.3V. These settings help improve stability.
- Change your PMIC Voltages option to By per PMIC. This setting allows your memory controller to set voltages according to each module’s needs.
Depending on your motherboard’s manufacturer, you can find these settings under the Advanced Mode area.
Consider switching to two RAM sticks and check if that resolves the issue.
Also read: How to Clear RAM and Reduce RAM Usage in Windows 10/11
DDR5 vs. DDR4: Should You Upgrade for Better Performance?
The DDR4 vs. DDR5 RAM debate won’t be over just yet, as DDR4 will stick around for a few more years. That informs my recommendation: stick with DDR4 if you still have a decent PC.
You can upgrade other components around your current motherboard to play the most demanding games and run the most intensive tasks.
However, you shouldn’t be discouraged about going for DDR5 as long as you have the money to do so and are okay with upgrading to the fastest DDR5 RAM later down the line.
