What is the Difference between RAM and VRAM? [Explained]

Sometimes, the RAM and VRM are used with each other, but they are not the same. Suppose you want a new PC or a memory upgrade to increase performance. In that case, it is essential to understand the types of memory cards and specifications that can help you to pin down the suitable memory module on your PC. When choosing the new memory module for a computer, these two components are often confused in the user’s mind. These two components are so integrated into our daily lives that one doesn’t realize they are different.

RAM and VRAM are random-access memories but have different uses on your computer. The RAM is used for general tasks and speedy operations. VRAM is a particular type of random access memory because it is used to optimize the performance of your graphic card and render outstanding displays. RAM is commonly found in computers, mobiles, and laptops, but VRAM is mainly found in high-end desktops. In this article, we will discuss each type of random access memory and provide specifications for each memory.

RAM vs VRAM: What is the difference?

RAM and VRAM are both used to store data, but in different ways. RAM is placed on the motherboard board of your computer and is used to store temporary data. On the other hand, VRAM is a type of memory that is built into the CPU itself. RAM allows the central processing unit to change information fast. Unlike hard drives, which allow you to store data for longer periods of time, RAM allows the CPU to retrieve data from memory without slowing down.

On the other hand, VRAM is a memory used to store graphical data like images and videos that form your computer screen. Because it’s built into the CPU, VRAM is always located next to the graphic chip. Despite the difference between RAM and VRAM, both are important to the performance of your computer. The more RAM you have, the better your performance in retrieving and saving data. The more VRAM you have, the faster and clearer images and videos will be displayed on the screen.

RAM	VRAM
The complete form of RAM is random access memory.	The full form of VRAM is video random access memory.
RAM is used to store temporary data.	VRAM is used to store graphical data.
RAM is connected to the motherboard.	VRAM is placed on the graphic card.
The RAM is used for general tasks and speedy operations.	The VRAM is used to optimize the performance of graphic cards and render outstanding displays.
RAM has a much higher capacity than VRAM, but its speed falls below that of VRAM.	VRAM has a lower capacity than RAM, but it  is faster than RAM.
RAM is volatile memory.	VRAM is not a volatile memory.
RAM is a single-Port.	VRAM is dual-port.

What is RAM?

RAM stands for random access memory. It is a form of computer data storage that computers use to perform tasks. Random access memory (RAM) temporarily stores data while applications are running on your computer. Without RAM, doing anything on your computer would be very, very slow. RAM is the fastest part of your computer because it allows the CPU to work directly with the data you’re currently using. It is a semiconductor component of a computer that holds working data and programs, such as operating systems and software programs.

Types of RAM

There are two main types of RAM.

• Dynamic RAM (DRAM): DRAM is widely used as a computer’s main memory. Each DRAM memory cell is composed of a transistor and a capacitor inside the integrated circuit, and this semiconductor technology stores individual bits of memory. 

• SRAM: This type of RAM comprises four or six transistors and does not have the same power demand as dynamic RAM, using latching circuitry to store memory.

What is VRAM?

VRAM is also known as video random access memory. VRAM is a particular form of RAM used to directly store video data elements like pixels, lines, etc. It is a type of memory that resides on a video graphics board to maintain visual data between frames. The VRAM deals with graphical informational data, while the CPU deals with non-graphical data tasks. Because different data types do not access memory at the same rate, VRAM buffers, and formate graphic data structures so that the CPU and GPU can quickly access them.

Types of VRAM

There are various types of VRAM, including proprietary forms. The three main types of VRAM:

• Window RAM (WRAM)

This type of VRAM is very high performance dual-ported and has 25% more bandwidth than the standard version. It is used for high-resolution, true-color applications. It is unconnected to Microsoft.

• Multibank DRAM (MDRAM): 

This advanced type of dynamic RAM was developed by MoSys, and it increases the overall memory performance compared to generic, monolithic VRAM. It divides the VRAM memory into 32KB parts, each accessed individually. The manufacturer also produces VRAM to reduce costs and save energy.

• Synchronous Graphics RAM (SGRAM): This is a low-cost RAM module timed by the clock. It means it is single-ported but can create two memory pages to perform like conventional double-ported VRAM.

Conclusion

RAM, or random access memory, is a form of computer data storage that computers use to perform tasks. It temporarily stores data while applications are running on your computer. VRAM is also known as video random access memory. VRAM is a special form of RAM used to directly store video data elements like pixels, lines, etc. 

RAM and VRAM are both used to store data, but in different ways. RAM is placed on the motherboard board of your computer, and VRAM is a type of memory built into the CPU itself. Despite the difference between RAM and VRam, both are important to the performance of your computer. 

The more RAM you have, the better your performance in retrieving and saving data. The more VRAM you have, the faster and clearer images and videos will be displayed on the screen. How much RAM or VRAM you need depends on what you plan to do with your machine.