RAM (Random Access Memory) and hard drive space are easily confused, but, it is an important factor to consider when purchasing any PC to save you both time, and money, and get the best out of your PC.
RAM (Random Access Memory) refers to the memory inside your computer. This stores actively running programmes on your computer. So, for example, if you open a programme like Microsoft Word it will be loaded into the computer’s memory. However, when you quit this programme, the memory is freed up for use.
The hard disk or drive is a disk that can hold several gigabytes of data. Therefore, disk space refers to how much space you have available on your hard disk for storing files. Therefore, when you save a document or install a new programme it will be stored permanently, until you choose to delete it, on your hard disk.
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If you run out of RAM you will not have enough memory to run certain programmes and you will need to upgrade your memory by buying more RAM, something that can prove costly. The more RAM your PC has also enables it to run more programmes and perform more tasks simultaneously, something potentially needed for students or workers. It is hard to say exactly how much RAM is best without knowing specific computer needs and uses. However, anything from 4GB to 8GB is usually the recommended amount for the average user, although higher amounts like 16GB can be useful for those running excessive programmes simultaneously.
On the other hand, if you do not have enough hard disk space to install a programme, you can either delete files you no longer need or buy an additional, external hard drive, such as a USB. Again, with hard disk space it is largely down to preference and usage. For light to medium usage, such as saving documents, images, music and basic software you may require anything from 250GB to 500GB maximum. If you’re looking to download and play games, you may need to consider anything from at least 500GB upto 1TB, depending on the amount of games you wish to download. Expertec stock hard drives ranging from 1TB to 4TB, ideal if you're a serious gamer.
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Expertec have a great range of PC’s available with varying RAM and Hard Drive space, so, whether you’re using your PC for gaming, studying or day-to-day browsing we have something to suit you!