Many friends who are new to building PCs may have the question of whether to choose DDR4 or DDR5 memory. Are there significant differences between the two? Below, gpu-top will share the distinctions and purchasing recommendations for DDR4 and DDR5 memory.
The difference between DDR4 and DDR5 memory
1. Memory Frequency
The most apparent difference between DDR4 and DDR5 memory lies in their memory frequencies. DDR5 doubles the frequency compared to DDR4. In the initial stages of DDR4, memory frequencies were only 2133 and 2400MHz. Currently, mainstream frequencies reach 3200MHz and 3600MHz, with flagship DDR4 memory achieving up to 4266MHz or higher. In contrast, DDR5 memory initiates at a frequency of 4800MHz and commonly ranges from 5200MHz to 6000MHz for mainstream options. Flagship DDR5 memory has even reached 8000MHz.
2. Memory Bandwidth
DDR5 memory exhibits a faster data transfer rate, as seen in the bandwidth comparison at DDR4 3200 frequency with 25.6GBps and DDR5 4800 frequency with 38.4GBps.
3. Operating Voltage
DDR5 consumes more efficiently than DDR4. DDR4 operates at 1.2V, while DDR5’s operating voltage decreases to 1.1V, resulting in an 8% reduction in power consumption and improved energy efficiency.
4. PMIC (Power Management Integrated Circuit) Power Management Chip
In DDR4 memory, the motherboard integrates the PMIC power management chip. In contrast, DDR5 memory incorporates the PMIC power management chip onto the memory’s PCB board. This chip is the intelligent voltage regulation system, monitoring current while facilitating configurable voltage slopes and levels, thereby reducing the burden on motherboard power management.
5. Single Chip Density
DDR5 achieves higher single-chip density, with individual chips capable of reaching 16GB, while DDR4 single chips are limited to 4 GB. This allows DDR5 memory modules to have larger capacities, with a single module reaching up to 128GB or even 256GB, though current consumer-level demands may not require such extensive capacities.
6. ECC (Error-Correcting Code) Memory Error Correction Mechanism
DDR5 memory introduces ECC error correction functionality, specifically On-die ECC. This is a simplified version of ECC, capable of correcting errors only within the memory module itself. Traditional ECC often involves additional chips dedicated to ECC functionality, capable of correcting communication errors during operation. The ECC feature in DDR5 primarily aims to enhance memory stability and reduce the likelihood of system crashes.
7. Single Memory Achieving Dual Channel
While typically, dual-channel functionality requires two DDR4 memory modules, DDR5 allows a single module to achieve dual-channel functionality, although it is more accurately described as pseudo-dual-channel. DDR4 operates with a single 64-bit channel for data transfer, whereas DDR5 splits the channel into two 32-bit channels, effectively achieving dual-channel effects with a single module. True dual-channel performance still requires the use of two memory modules.
8. XMP 3.0 Technology
XMP 3.0 technology is Intel’s one-click overclocking solution designed for DDR5 memory. It stores optimized preset parameters, offering five profiles, including three fixed configurations and two user-customizable profiles. These profiles can be renamed, and the module’s voltage is adjustable. Some manufacturers have introduced visual overclocking software, simplifying the overclocking process.
9. Different Interfaces
DDR4 and DDR5 have slightly different keying notches, indicating that they are not mutually compatible. Therefore, if one intends to use DDR5 memory, the motherboard must support DDR5 slots and cannot be used in DDR4 slots.
10. Timing Sequences (Timings)
DDR5 memory faces challenges in timing sequences due to its significantly increased frequency and reduced power consumption. To ensure memory stability, higher timing values are necessary. For example, DDR4 2666 frequency memory typically has timings ranging from CL17 to CL19, while DDR5 4800 frequency memory commonly reaches CL40. Higher memory timings result in increased latency, which may affect performance in applications, especially those sensitive to memory latency, where DDR4 memory might have an advantage.
DDR4 and DDR5 Memory Buying Advice:
While DDR5 memory boasts higher frequencies and bandwidth, the increased latency has resulted in no significant improvement in gaming performance. Therefore, for gamers seeking a certain level of cost-effectiveness, DDR4 memory remains a viable option, considering that motherboards and memory are more budget-friendly.
However, if you have productivity requirements, it is advisable to opt for DDR5 memory. After all, DDR5 memory provides a substantial bandwidth advantage, which can greatly enhance productivity. It is not recommended to choose DDR5 memory with a frequency of 4800MHz, as it may be inexpensive but delivers comparatively poor performance. I recommend starting with 5600MHz and preferably opting for 6000MHz or higher for optimal productivity gains.
