There are two type of memory in computer RAM and ROM.
Computer memory is of two basic type – Primary memory(RAM and ROM) and Secondary memory(hard drive,CD,etc.).
RAM is used to store computer programs and data that CPU needs in real time. RAM data is volatile and is erased once computer is switched off.
ROM have prerecorded data and it is used to boot computer. RAM data is static and remains in the computer even if computer is switched off.
Lets find out some differences between RAM and ROM with features below-
| Sr. No. | Key | RAM | ROM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Definition | RAM stands for Random Access Memory, and called as read write memory or the main memory or the primary memory | ROM stands for Read Only Memory, and called as secondary memory |
| 2 | Types | RAM -> SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) and DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). | ROM -> PROM (Programmable read-only memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable read only memory), EEPROM (Electrically erasable programmable read only memory) |
| 3 | Data Access | RAM data can be read, erased or modified. | ROM data is read-only. |
| 4 | Speed | RAM speed is high-speed memory | ROM speed is much slower than the RAM. |
| 5 | Data Storage | RAM data is volatile. Data is present till power supply is present. | ROM data is permanent. Data remains even after power supply is not present. |
| 6 | CPU Access | CPU can access data stored on RAM. | Data to be copied from ROM to RAM so that CPU can access its data. |
| 7 | Usage | RAM is used as CPU Cache, Primary Memory. | ROM is used as firmware by micro-controllers. |
| 8 | Cost | RAM is costly. | ROM is cheap. |
Related blog – Difference between HDD and SDD
