DDR4 vs DDR5: What You Should Know About DDR5?

DDR4 vs DDR5: What You Should Know About DDR5?    

Are you prepared to take on the next level of performance memory? 

It’s no surprise that DDR4 memory has been the primary RAM used throughout generations of PCs and laptops for a while now, but its successor is just around the corner. DDR5 memory has already made its desktop debut as the next generation memory. DDR5 memory modules create innovative groundbreaking developments in DRAM for 5G computing, cloud IoT (Internet of Things), gaming, entertainment, and so much more!  

What are the differences between DDR4 and DDR5? 

DDR4 only had a maximum die density of 16GB while DDR5 quadruples that number to 64GB. This means that DDR5 RAM sticks provide much higher overall capacity than DDR4. As technology progresses the necessity for more memory increases, and that’s where the upcoming evolution of RAM with more than 64GB capacity will come into play with DDR5.  

While the overall data width for DDR4 and DDR5 remains the same, DDR5 improves the channel design of the memory. Each DIMM now uses two smaller channels instead of just a single larger one. This immensely improves efficiency by allowing the CPU to simultaneously access the same RAM multiple times. DDR5 memory also doubles up on burst chop and burst length compared to DDR4 modules. Combined with the dual-channel nature of each DDR5 DIMM, this advances efficiency in a whole new level of performance. These improvements could help give DDR5 another innovative edge over its last-generation rivals like the DDR4.  

The DDR4 RAM power management is directly handled by the motherboard. The difference with DDR5 is that there's a power management integrated circuit (PMIC) built right onto the RAM module. This helps ensure that power isn't diminished on DIMMs that don't need as much power. Finally, DDR5 runs at a lower voltage than DDR4. Although it is a minor change, the drop from 1.2V to 1.1V will be much more apparent in smaller devices. 

What other new advances will DDR5 offer? 

The upcoming generation, DDR5 improvements compared to DDR4 also offers both data and clocking rates. Right off the bat, DDR5 data rates generally operate in a range from 4,800MHz (MT/s) to 8,400MHz (MT/s), with the latter number already appearing on the market as the technology continues to improve. For DDR5, clock rates also pick up where DDR4 leaves off, with a range of 1,600MHz to 4,800MHz. This is the newest technology for tech enthusiasts and overclocker pros to dive into! 

With the exciting release of DDR5 offering high capacities and increased speeds, it beats out twice the data transfer of DDR4. With onboard power management for super-efficient operation, DDR5 has the potential to truly blow DDR4 away as components become more available and technology continues to innovate! For those who want truly cutting-edge performance DDR5 may be the upgrade you’re looking for.  

Additionally, to increase module capacity, DDR5 supports a durable enhancement in memory bandwidth over DDR4. For comparison, the official data rates for DDR4 span from 1,600 MTps to 3,200 MTps. DDR5 starts where DDR4 maxes out, ranging from 3,200 MTps - 6,400 MTps, double the current highest bandwidth of DDR4. Following its predecessor, the advanced DDR5 technology also produces operating voltage improvements, allowing for better power efficiency. DDR5 is soon to be the ultimate upgrade for the latest AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things) blazing quick transmission applications. 

When will DDR5 be available? 

Patriot has just released DDR5 solutions featuring Signature Premium series modules. Currently the estimated announcement date for Viper Venom DDR5, more frequencies, and capacities are estimated to launch around late Q2 to Q3. As the year progresses and components from manufacturers become more available, modules will also be set to increase in speed and accessibility. Are you ready for the ultimate DDR5 upgrade?