Our computers have very different components that are all working together to make a cohesive, multi-purpose system.

But one massively important component in our system is the Random Access Memory, or RAM for short.

The more RAM you have, the more tasks you’re able to do simultaneously.

G Skill Trident Z RAM Close-Up Feature Image

But not everything comes down to memory size.

RAM speed is also an important factor to have in mind.

The first thing it’s crucial that you do is to reach the Windows Task Manager.

Access Task Manager 1

you could access it byright-clicking on your Windows taskbarthen clicking on theTask Manageroption.

Alternatively, just tapCtrl + Shift + Escwhich will boot up Task Manager.

Click onMemoryto see information about your RAM.

Task Manager Fully Expanded

DDR3 RAM, on the other hand, should go up to 1866MHz.

For clarification, there are lots of different pieces of software for this purpose.

The latest version of CPU-Z has added support for DDR5 memory and Intel Alder Lake 12th gen CPUs.

Task Manager Fully Expanded 2

Then, press theMemorytab.

Here, we can see thatUncore FrequencyandDRAM Frequencyare both listed as 1799.6MHz.

Why Is It Important to Know Your RAM Speed?

Task Manager Fully Expanded 3

There are several reasons why you might want to check your RAM speed.

This can cause a performance penalty.

Another reason might be to check that things are working properly after a RAM upgrade.

RAM Speed Task Manager 2

Why Is RAM Speed Important?

For example, PC4-25600 memory is rated for 3200MHz, while PC4-28800 memory is rated for 3600MHz.

The easiest way to put it is “the faster the data rate, the faster the RAM.”

CPUZ RAM Speed First Image

In most applications, it’s also much better tohave more RAM than faster RAMas well.

Whether it’s a worthy upgrade, however, is another story.

Is Your RAM Up to Speed?

CPU Z RAM Speed Second Image

People often overlook RAM speed, especially given that getting more RAM is better than getting faster RAM.

The CPU-Z RAM speed fields

Close-Up of Chips in a RAM Stick