GDDR RAM and system RAM are common terminologies that you'll bump into in the world of desktop computers. While the terms may seem similar and maybe interchangeable, they are not. System RAM and GDDR RAM differ in their application, and one can't be replaced with the other.

Read on to know the difference between GDDR RAM and RAM.

What Does GDDR RAM and DDR RAM Mean?

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, it's good to establish a solid foundation on what these two common terms mean. GDDR is short for graphics double data rate, while DDR is short for double data rate.

RAM, or random access memory, is short-term computer memory that holds all your programs and data currently in use. However, commonly, you'll see DDR RAM simply referred to as RAM.

Check out our full guide on RAM for more details.

With that in mind, you now know that both GDDR RAM and DDR RAM are only short-term memory modules in your computer. Another distinction is each has its applications.

GDDR RAM vs. RAM: Use Cases

In a nutshell, the primary difference between GDDR RAM and RAM is the use case. As you probably know, your computer's GPU (graphics processing unit) and CPU (central processing unit) both need memory to perform their various functions. That's where GDDR RAM and DDR RAM come into play.

GDDR RAM is used in graphics cards, while your computer's CPU uses RAM. The reason for this specialization is the nature of the functions performed by your graphics card and CPU to meet your needs as an end-user. Since graphical processing requires higher data transfers, GDDR RAM is specifically optimized for high bandwidth needs to ensure optimal performance.

On the other hand, RAM cannot perform large data transfers in one go due to its narrow memory bus. However, it can transfer small chunks of data with very low latency to ensure your mundane computing tasks run seamlessly, like opening a Word document, browsing the web, and others.

That brings us to the underlying technologies that make GDDR RAM and RAM handle their respective functions better.

Related: Things You Have to Know Before Buying a Graphics Card

GDDR RAM vs. RAM: Technology

The difference in GDDR RAM and RAM applications emanates from the underlying technology. At the basic, GDDR RAM uses a wider memory bus, which ensures that large chunks of data can pass through once.

For example, GDDR6 has data rates of 18 gigabits per second (Gbps). That is critical considering the type of work GPUs do—rendering graphical data like images or ensuring a seamless experience in your favorite RPG game.

System RAM sticks

On the other hand, RAM is more optimized for low latency than high-bandwidth data transfer.

RAM has a narrow memory bus and, thus, transfers less data at once. However, RAM is perfect for handling multiple operations simultaneously. That is why you can have different applications open on your computer at a go, and you're able to switch tasks seamlessly.

Aside from bandwidth, GDDR and DDR RAM also differ in other areas such as power consumption and latency.

It's also important to note that there are different versions of GDDR RAM and system RAM. For RAM, there is DDR1, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4, and DDR5. Here's an in-depth article on the meaning of different RAM generations.

GDDR RAM follows the same naming conventions but with some tweaks. GDDR RAM versions include GDDR, GDDR2, GDDR3, GDDR4, GDDR5, GDDR5X, GDDR6, and GDDR6X.

Additionally, GDDR RAM and RAM are developed independently. That's the reason why, as at the time of writing, the latest generation of GDDR RAM is GDDR6, while the latest RAM iteration is DDR5.

Related: How Much RAM Do You Really Need?

Different RAM for Different Work

GDDR and DDR RAM are both short-term desktop memories, with the major difference being their primary functions. GDDR RAM is integrated within the GPU for graphics-related tasks, while system RAM is connected to the CPU for regular computer tasks. However, the CPU and GPU communicate via the PCI express bus.