When you build a gaming PC, you immediately think of the processor and the graphics card. But DDR RAM plays an equally crucial role: it determines how quickly your CPU and GPU exchange data. Today, two standards dominate: DDR4 and DDR5. You have probably already seen debates about DDR4 vs DDR5, or questions like "what's the difference between DDR4 and DDR5?". This article is here to provide you with a comprehensive comparison, including concrete figures, prices, and even real-time stock availability so you can make an informed choice.
To begin with, here is a clear RAM comparison between DDR4 and DDR5:
👉 What to remember:
| Feature | DDR4 | DDR5 |
|---|---|---|
| Year of launch | 2014 | 2021 |
| Standard frequency | 2133 to 3600 MHz | 4800 to 8400 MHz and more |
| Latency (CAS) | CL14 to CL18 | CL28 to CL40 |
| Bandwidth | 25 to 30 GB/s | 50 to 70+ GB/s |
| Capacity per module | Up to 32 GB | Up to 128 GB |
| Voltage | 1.2 V | 1.1 V with integrated management (PMIC) |
| Compatibility | DDR4 Motherboards (AM4, LGA1200/1700) | DDR5 motherboards (AM5, LGA1700, future Arrow Lake) |
The real question is what it changes in gaming. TechSpot published a very comprehensive test in 2024, based on an RTX 4090 and several generations of Intel processors.
Here are some tests conducted by TechSpot:
TechSpot.
Here is a summary comparison DDR4 RAM vs DDR5 in gaming :
👉 Conclusion : the DDR5 really makes a difference in modern games s. The gains are sometimes enormous ( up to 30% more FPS ), especially on 12th generation Intel processors. For competitive games like CS2, the difference is minimal, but on recent AAA titles like Cyberpunk or Watch Dogs, the switch to DDR5 changes the game.
| Game | Average Gain DDR5 vs DDR4 |
|---|---|
| Baldur’s Gate 3 | +22% to +35% |
| Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty | +16% to +29% |
| Hogwarts Legacy | +15% to +21% (up to +35% in 1% lows) |
| Hitman 3 | +22% to +26% |
| Watch Dogs: Legion | +28% to +31% |
| Starfield | +14% to +19% (up to +34% on Intel 12th gen) |
| Counter-Strike 2 | Slightly sensitive (0 to +9%) |
| Average 13 games | +16% (Intel 14th gen), +20–22% (Intel 12th gen) |
DDR4 remains unbeatable in terms of budget:
DDR5 has dropped since 2022, but remains more expensive:
👉 If you want a Cheap gaming PC , the DDR4 RAM remains the logical choice But if you're building a new setup on AM5 or the upcoming Intel platforms, investing directly in DDR5 is more cost-effective in the long run.
👉 In plain language: if you build a new gaming PC in 2025, you will soon not really have a choice, it will be mandatory DDR5 RAM DDR4 remains relevant only for upgrading an existing configuration.
DropReference gives you real-time access to all RAM stocks in the country you are in. You can compare everything in the blink of an eye:
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👉 The difference between DDR4 and DDR5 is now real, especially in modern gaming. In 2025, DDR4 remains interesting for tight budgets, but DDR5 is clearly the RAM of the future.
