DDR4

DDR4, short for Double Data Rate 4 Synchronous DRAM, is the fourth generation of DDR memory used in computers and other devices. Standardized by JEDEC and released in 2014, DDR4 provides higher data transfer rates, greater memory densities, and lower operating voltage than DDR3, improving performance and energy efficiency. DDR4 modules come in desktop (UDIMM), notebook (SO-DIMM), and server (RDIMM, LRDIMM) form factors.

Key specifications include nominal voltage of 1.2 volts, with low-power variants such as DDR4L operating at about 1.05 volts. Common consumer speeds range from 1600 to 3200 MT/s, with higher-speed kits available on enthusiast platforms. Per-DIMM capacities commonly reach 64 GB, and higher densities exist in enterprise-class products.

Architecturally, DDR4 increases bank groups and overall memory density, enabling higher bandwidth and better multi-tasking in multi-channel configurations. ECC and registered memory are supported in server-grade modules (RDIMM and LRDIMM), while consumer systems typically use unbuffered ECC or non-ECC DIMMs.

DDR4 is not backward compatible with DDR3 or earlier generations; the modules, sockets, and memory controllers differ, requiring a motherboard and CPU that specifically support DDR4.

DDR4 remains the mainstream memory standard through the 2010s and 2020s and is being gradually supplemented by DDR5 in newer platforms.