What is RAM?
- Stands for Random Access Memory.
- Part of computer hardware where OS, programs, data and applications that are currently running are stored so that the processor can retrieve it quickly.
What is ROM?
- Stands for Read Only Memory.
- It is a type of memory where data has been prerecorded and contains the instructions that helps the computer to boot up.
Comparision between RAM and ROM:
- Both are types of memory used by a computer and they are both required by the computer to properly and efficiently.
- Even though both are meant for storage purpose they vary in style of usage.
| Category | RAM | ROM |
|---|---|---|
| Volatality | Volatile memory i.e does not retain data when power is off. | Non-volatile memory i.e retains data even when power is off. |
| Data | The data is not permanent but it can be retrieved and altered any number of times. | The data is permanent. Cannot be altered or modified easily. |
| Accesibility | The data can be accessed in any order, from any location. Hence the name Random Access Memory. | The information stored in ROM is not easily accessible and cannot be rewritten. Hence the name Read Only Memory. |
| Speed | It is a high-speed memory. | It is much slower than the RAM. |
| CPU Interaction | The CPU can access the data stored on it. | The CPU can not access the data stored on it. In order to do so, the data is first copied to the RAM. |
| Size and Capacity | Large size with higher capacity. | Small size with less capacity. |
| Usage | Primary memory (DRAM), CPU Cache (SRAM). |
Firmware like BIOS, and at places where a small and permanent memory solution is required. |
| Cost | It doesn’t come cheap. | Way cheaper than RAM. |
| Types | Types of RAM are Static RAM(SRAM) and Dynamic RAM(DRAM). | Types of ROM are PROM, EPROM, EEPROM. |
| Physical Appearance |  |
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