The key difference between RAM and ROM is that RAM is volatile memory used for temporary data storage while the CPU is active, whereas ROM is non-volatile memory used for permanent storage of essential system instructions.
What is RAM?
RAM, which stands for Random Access Memory, is a familiar acronym for the temporary storage in your computer. It provides applications a place to store and access data on a short-term basis. Having more RAM allows more data to be accessed and read almost instantly, rather than being written to your hard drive or SSD.
RAM enables your computer to perform everyday tasks such as loading applications, browsing the internet, editing spreadsheets, or playing the latest games. It also allows you to switch quickly between these tasks, remembering your progress in each. Generally, more memory improves multitasking performance.
For example, when you turn on your computer, check your email, and edit a spreadsheet, memory is used in several ways:
1: To toggle between open programs, like switching between the spreadsheet and your email.
2: To load and run applications like your spreadsheet program and email.
3: To respond to commands, such as deleting an email or editing the spreadsheet.
What is ROM?
ROM, or Read-Only Memory, is a non-volatile memory used to store important information necessary for operating the system. As its name suggests, it is read-only, meaning we can only read the programs and data stored on it.
ROM is a primary memory unit of the computer system, containing electronic fuses that can be programmed with specific information. This information is stored in binary format, making ROM a form of permanent memory.
RAM Vs ROM
The basic difference between RAM and rom is given below:
| RAM | ROM | |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | RAM stands for Random Access Memory. | ROM stands for Read Only Memory. |
| Definition | RAM is the primary memory of the computer that stores data and instructions on which the CPU is currently working. | ROM is the primary memory of the computer that stores instructions and programs that do not need to be altered in the future, like BIOS. |
| Nature | RAM is a volatile memory, meaning it stores data as long as the power is on. | ROM is a non-volatile memory, meaning it stores data permanently even when the power is off. |
| Data Access | The CPU can read, write, or alter the data on RAM. | The CPU can only read data from ROM; it cannot write or change it. |
| Usage | RAM is used to store data that the CPU needs for current instruction processing. | ROM is used to store data needed to bootstrap the computer. |
| Types | There are two major types of RAM: SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) and DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory). | There are three types of ROM: PROM (Programmable ROM), EPROM (Erasable PROM), and EEPROM (Electrically EPROM). |
| Speed | The speed of RAM is quite high. | The speed of ROM is slower than RAM. |
| CPU Access | The CPU can access data stored in RAM directly. | Data needs to be copied from ROM to RAM for the CPU to access it. |
| Capacity | RAM memory is large and high capacity. | ROM is generally small and of low capacity. |
| Used as | RAM is used as CPU Cache and Primary Memory. | ROM is used as firmware by microcontrollers. |
| Cost | RAM is costly. | ROM is less expensive. |