Selecting the perfect components for your gaming PC can seem a little daunting. Especially when you have to also consider the size of your hardware, not just the type, you need. That’s where our team of PC experts at Overclockers UK comes in! We’ve put together this handy series all about different component form factors.
This particular blog post focuses on RAM.
RAM Form Factors
Along with different generations and configurations, there are two main form factors of RAM.
- SO-DIMM
- DIMM
SO-DIMM:
SO-DIMM stands for Small Outline Dual In-line Memory Module. SO-DIMM RAM takes up half of the space compared to standard DIMM RAM, which makes it ideal for laptops, notebooks, and small PCs or home theatre setups.
SO-DIMM RAM is similar to DIMM RAM in that there are different generations, e.g. DDR4 or DDR5. Along with this, you have to ensure that the SO-DIMM slot is compatible with the generation of memory you are trying to use. For instance, you can’t use DDR3 SO-DIMM in a DDR4 SO-DIMM slot. In addition to this, SO-DIMM is not cross-compatible with motherboards that utilise DIMM memory. This is due to the difference in size and form factor.
Kingston HyperX 8GB (2x4GB) SO-DIMM RAM Kit:
- SO-DIMM
- 8GB (2X4GB) RAM sticks
- Up to 2133MHz speed
- DDR3 standard
DIMM:
DIMM or Dual In-line Memory Module is the most common form factor and is used primarily in desktop PCs. Most DIMM RAM Kits include an array of built-in features, such as integrated heatsinks and even stylish RGB lighting.
Lexar Hades 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4 Dual/Quad Channel RAM Kit
- DIMM
- 16GB (2 x 8GB) RAM capacity
- DDR4 standard
- Dual/Quad Channel configuration
- 3600MHz
TeamGroup Delta 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR5 Dual-Channel RAM Kit
- DIMM
- 32GB (2 x 16GB) RAM capacity
- DDR5 standard
- Dual-Channel configuration
- 6200MHz
DIMM memory is available in two different heights. Standard or low-profile, which is perfectly suited to small form factor (SFF) PCs.
Low-Profile:
Low-Profile:
Low-profile RAM has been built utilising a shorter PCB and has a maximum height of 34mm. As such, low-profile RAM won’t usually include any integrated RGB lighting and most typically don’t have a heatsink.
Unless you are planning on overclocking your RAM modules, with low-profile RAM you can still achieve the same standard of performance, capacity, and frequency compared to a standard RAM kit.
Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2X8GB) DDR4 Dual Channel RAM Kit:
- DIMM
- Low profile
- 16GB (2x8GB) RAM sticks
- Up to 3200MHz speed
- DDR4 standard
Building your own gaming PC can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve put together the Overclockers UK Ultimate PC Building Guide.
The Form Factors Explained Series
Check other more articles in our ‘Form Factors Explained’ series for a closer look at your gaming hardware.
Your Chosen RAM Form Factor?
Did you opt for DIMM or low profile? Let us know which form factor your RAM is and why in the comments.
- 3 min read
Ruth Rowley
Author
Ruth has been with Overclockers UK for over a year and has gone on to write about everything ranging from in-depth hardware guides to monthly game releases.
Outside of writing blog posts, she can be found wrapped in a blanket with her black cat, engrossed in a book or playing life-simulation games such as The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing.
Read More >>