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LAST UPDATED: JANUARY 31, 2023

Difference Between RAM and ROM

Today's generation does everything with a computer. The most significant and widespread task performed by computers is data and file storage. Memory, on the other hand, is essential for storing files and other data in devices (phones or computers). RAM and ROM, for example, are memory types used to store data in electrical devices.

What is RAM?

Difference Between RAM and ROM

The data of the computer is stored in RAM, or Random Access Memory. It simply saves the data and information that the computer is now consuming. As a result, it is helpful for such use since more applications demand more memory, which increases RAM use. It offers several advantages over ROM, but it is more costly.

It is mostly used to store data and machine code. The following are some of the several kinds of RAM:

SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) is a kind of memory that employs more than three transistors. It has certain benefits, such as being simpler, having excellent performance, being dependable, and using low idle power consumption, but it also has some downsides, such as its density, price, and the fact that it takes a lot of power to operate.

DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) is a kind of memory that uses just a single transistor and capacitor (unlike SRAM). It is more sophisticated in nature, yet its basic cell structure gives it an edge. When compared to SRAM, it is less expensive.

Multiport Dynamic Random Access Memory is another name for VRAM (Video Random Access Memory). 3-D accelerators are the most common use. It has two separate ports. Because SRAM is more costly than DRAM, it is utilized more often.

What is ROM?

ROM (Read-Only Memory) is a kind of memory used in electronic devices where data cannot be changed once the device has been manufactured. It is slower and has less storage space than RAM. It is mostly utilized in current computers. Despite its drawbacks, it is regarded to be less costly, and it is accessible to anyone.

ROMs come in a variety of formats, including:

Masked Read-Only Memory, or MROM, is a sort of memory that can't be changed because it's original.

PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a kind of memory that can't be programmed once it's been made. Information is indestructible. As a result, no modifications or alterations are possible.

EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) was invented by Dov Frohman in 1971. It cannot be updated, thus no new data may be stored in it. It isn't widely utilized in computer systems.

Programmable Electrically Erasable EEPROM (Electronic Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a kind of memory that can be reprogrammed and wiped. There is no data that can be saved in the system. It's more potent than the others.

Comparison Table Between RAM and ROM

RAM ROM
  • RAM is used by the CPU to store operating system software, software programs, and other data for direct and rapid access while performing tasks.
  • ROM is a kind of permanent memory in which data is input once and preserved indefinitely. In this memory, applications can't be changed or removed.
  • The user has the ability to read and edit data.
  • The information may be read-only by the user in this case. The data cannot be changed by the user.
  • A computer's volatile memory is known as RAM. When the computer is switched off, all of the RAM's processed data is immediately discarded.
  • The data contained in ROM is not erased even when the computer is turned off. As a result, ROM is referred to as non-volatile memory.
  • RAM has a faster processing speed than ROM.
  • When compared to RAM, ROM is slower.
  • The data needed to be processed by the CPU in real time is stored in RAM.
  • The instructions necessary during the computer's bootstrap must be stored in ROM.
  • RAM has a bigger capacity and a larger size.
  • ROM has a lower size and less capacity than RAM.
  • RAM is expensive, particularly when compared to ROM.
  • ROM is substantially less expensive than RAM.

Conclusion

It is critical for computers to have enough memory installed in order for them to work properly. They are not necessary for sending emails or accessing the web. However, for someone who employed computers for more complicated tasks such as video or picture editing or recording. Memory is quite important for these objectives. It may also be used as a backup storage device. It ensures that no data or files are lost.

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About the author:
Adarsh Kumar Singh is a technology writer with a passion for coding and programming. With years of experience in the technical field, he has established a reputation as a knowledgeable and insightful writer on a range of technical topics.