Exploring Ddr4 Ram Compatible Motherboard: Material Composition, Standards, and Best Practices in Industry

Types of DDR4 RAM Compatible Motherboards

A DDR4 RAM compatible motherboard is a crucial component in any modern PC build, serving as the central hub that connects the CPU, memory, storage, graphics card, and other peripherals. Choosing the right motherboard ensures optimal performance, future upgradeability, and system stability. The physical size and layout—known as the form factor—determine compatibility with cases, power supplies, and expansion capabilities. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most common DDR4-compatible motherboard types.

ATX (Advanced Technology Extended)

Measuring 305 x 244 mm, ATX is the most widely used standard for desktop motherboards, offering the best balance of performance, expandability, and features.

Advantages

• 4 to 8 RAM slots (typically 4 for DDR4)
• Multiple PCIe slots for GPUs, NVMe, and expansion cards
• Superior VRM and cooling for overclocking
• Ample fan headers and RGB connectors
• Widely supported by mid-tower and full-tower cases

Limitations

• Larger size requires a bigger case
• Higher power consumption and cost
• May be overkill for basic office or media PCs

Best for: Gaming rigs, workstations, content creation, and overclocking builds

Micro-ATX (mATX)

With standard dimensions of 244 x 244 mm, Micro-ATX offers a compact alternative to ATX while retaining strong functionality and DDR4 support.

Advantages

• Typically includes 4 DDR4 RAM slots
• Compatible with most ATX cases
• Lower cost than ATX motherboards
• Sufficient PCIe slots for most users (1-2 x16 slots)
• Space-efficient without sacrificing key features

Limitations

• Fewer PCIe and M.2 expansion slots
• Limited overclocking capabilities on budget models
• Reduced VRM and heatsink coverage

Best for: Budget gaming builds, home theater PCs, and compact desktops with upgrade flexibility

Mini-ITX

At just 170 x 170 mm, Mini-ITX is the smallest standard motherboard form factor, ideal for ultra-compact builds while still supporting DDR4 memory.

Advantages

• Extremely compact and portable
• Perfect for HTPCs and small form factor (SFF) builds
• Energy-efficient and quiet operation
• Supports modern CPUs and single DDR4 RAM (2 slots typical)
• Unique case designs and minimalist aesthetics

Limitations

• Only 2 DDR4 RAM slots (limits total memory capacity)
• Single PCIe x16 slot (no multi-GPU support)
• Limited cooling and VRM for high-end CPUs
• Fewer USB, SATA, and fan headers

Best for: Portable PCs, living room media centers, and space-constrained environments

EATX (Extended ATX)

Larger than standard ATX (typically 305 x 330 mm), EATX motherboards are designed for high-end desktops and workstations with demanding DDR4 memory and expansion needs.

Advantages

• 6 to 8 DDR4 RAM slots (ideal for 64GB+ configurations)
• Support for dual CPUs and server-grade processors
• Multiple PCIe slots for multi-GPU or professional cards
• Enhanced power delivery and thermal design
• Advanced networking and storage options (10GbE, multiple M.2)

Limitations

• Requires full-tower or server cases
• Significantly higher cost
• Higher power draw and heat output
• Overkill for average users and gamers

Best for: Workstations, servers, 3D rendering, and professional content creation

Form Factor	Size (mm)	DDR4 RAM Slots	PCIe Slots	Best Use Case
ATX	305 x 244	4	2-3 (x16/x1)	Gaming, general performance builds
Micro-ATX	244 x 244	4	1-2 (x16/x1)	Budget builds, compact desktops
Mini-ITX	170 x 170	2	1 (x16)	HTPCs, small form factor systems
EATX	305 x 330	6-8	3-4+ (x16/x8/x1)	Workstations, servers, professional use

Expert Tip: Always verify motherboard compatibility with your CPU socket, case size, and desired RAM speed. For DDR4, look for motherboards with Intel Z690/Z790 or AMD X570/B550 chipsets if you plan to overclock or use high-speed RAM (3200MHz+).

Functions and Features of DDR4 RAM: Enhancing Modern Computing Performance

Double Data Rate 4 (DDR4) Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM) represents a significant advancement in computer memory technology. As the successor to DDR3, DDR4 RAM delivers superior performance, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced reliability, making it a cornerstone of modern computing systems—from everyday laptops to high-performance workstations and gaming rigs.

Understanding the core functions and advanced features of DDR4 RAM helps users make informed decisions when upgrading or building systems tailored for multitasking, content creation, gaming, or enterprise applications.

Core Functions of DDR4 RAM

System Memory for Multitasking

The primary function of DDR4 RAM is to serve as temporary system memory that stores active data and program instructions for quick access by the CPU. Unlike long-term storage (e.g., SSDs or HDDs), RAM provides ultra-fast read/write speeds essential for smooth system operation.

With higher capacities and faster data rates, DDR4 enables seamless multitasking—allowing users to run multiple applications simultaneously, such as web browsers with dozens of tabs, office suites, media players, and background services, without experiencing lag or system freezes.

Accelerated Data Caching

DDR4 RAM plays a crucial role in caching frequently accessed data, significantly reducing the time required for the processor to retrieve information. When an application or file is opened repeatedly, its data is stored in RAM, allowing near-instantaneous recall.

This caching capability improves overall system responsiveness and reduces reliance on slower storage drives, enhancing boot times, application launch speed, and real-time data processing efficiency.

Enhanced Gaming Performance

For gamers, DDR4 RAM is vital for rendering complex graphics, loading textures, and maintaining stable frame rates in modern AAA titles and open-world games. It acts as a buffer between the GPU and storage, ensuring that game assets are readily available during gameplay.

Higher RAM capacity (16GB or more) allows for larger game files to be loaded into memory, minimizing in-game stuttering and enabling faster level transitions. Combined with high-speed DDR4 modules (e.g., 3200 MHz or higher), this results in a smoother, more immersive gaming experience.

Efficient Data Transfer Across Components

DDR4 RAM facilitates rapid data exchange between critical components such as the CPU, GPU, chipset, and storage devices. This ensures that bottlenecks are minimized during intensive operations like video editing, 3D rendering, or real-time simulations.

Its increased bandwidth supports faster communication across the system bus, enabling real-time processing of large datasets and improving overall system throughput and responsiveness.

Key Features That Define DDR4 Technology

Energy Efficiency: DDR4 operates at a lower voltage of 1.2V compared to DDR3’s 1.5V, resulting in reduced power consumption and heat generation. This makes it ideal for laptops, compact desktops, and data centers where thermal management and battery life are critical. The power savings also contribute to lower electricity costs and extended hardware lifespan.

Higher Memory Density: DDR4 supports greater memory density per module, with standard sticks available in 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB capacities. High-end modules can reach 64GB per stick, allowing motherboards to support up to 512GB or more of total RAM when fully populated. This scalability benefits professionals working with large databases, virtual machines, 4K video editing, and scientific computing.

Improved Data Integrity: DDR4 incorporates advanced error detection and correction mechanisms, including a write-XOR feature that helps detect and correct certain types of data corruption during write operations. This enhances data reliability, making DDR4 suitable for mission-critical environments such as servers, financial systems, and medical equipment.

Packet-Based Memory Architecture: Unlike DDR3’s burst-based access, DDR4 uses a packetized command structure for read and write operations. This allows for more efficient command scheduling, reduced latency, and better control over memory traffic, leading to optimized performance under heavy workloads.

Versatile Connectors (DIMM & SO-DIMM): DDR4 is available in two main physical formats: DIMM (Dual In-Line Memory Module) for desktops and servers, and SO-DIMM (Small Outline DIMM) for laptops and compact systems. Both maintain the same technological advantages while fitting into different form factors, ensuring broad compatibility across computing platforms.

Feature	Benefit	Typical Use Case
1.2V Operating Voltage	Lower power consumption, reduced heat output	Laptops, energy-efficient desktops, server farms
8GB–64GB Per Module	Scalable memory configurations	Workstations, virtualization, content creation
Write-XOR & ECC Support	Enhanced data accuracy and system stability	Servers, financial systems, industrial control
2133–3200+ MHz Speeds	Faster data transfer and reduced latency	Gaming, real-time rendering, multitasking
DIMM / SO-DIMM Compatibility	Universal fit across desktops and laptops	Consumer and professional computing devices

Note: While DDR4 offers numerous advantages, it is not backward compatible with DDR3 motherboards due to differences in pin configuration and voltage requirements. Always verify motherboard compatibility before purchasing DDR4 RAM. Additionally, enabling XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) in the BIOS can unlock the full speed potential of high-performance DDR4 kits.

Applications of DDR4 RAM

DDR4 RAM (Double Data Rate 4 Random Access Memory) has become the standard in modern computing due to its superior speed, efficiency, and capacity compared to previous generations. Compatible with a wide range of motherboards and processors, DDR4 memory is essential across various industries where performance, multitasking, and data handling are critical. Below is a comprehensive overview of its key applications and real-world benefits.

Gaming

Modern gaming demands high-speed memory to support increasingly complex graphics, physics engines, and open-world environments. DDR4 RAM enables faster load times, smoother frame rates, and reduced stuttering during gameplay.

• Supports high-refresh-rate gaming by reducing memory bottlenecks
• Enables seamless multitasking—run games alongside streaming software (e.g., OBS), voice chat (Discord), and editing tools without lag
• Higher capacities (16GB–32GB+) allow for background applications like music production, live coding, or cybersecurity tools used by streamers and developers
• Overclocking-friendly variants (e.g., DDR4-3200 or higher) enhance performance on enthusiast-grade motherboards

Pro tip: Pair DDR4 with fast storage (NVMe SSDs) and a powerful GPU for optimal gaming performance.

Content Creation & Multimedia Editing

Professional creative workflows in video editing, 3D animation, and graphic design are highly memory-intensive. DDR4 RAM significantly accelerates rendering, compositing, and real-time preview performance.

• Enables smooth editing of 4K/8K video timelines in software like Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Final Cut Pro
• Speeds up rendering in Blender, Maya, and Cinema 4D by keeping large texture maps and scene data in memory
• Improves responsiveness in Photoshop and Illustrator when working with layered, high-resolution files
• Facilitates real-time audio processing in DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) like Ableton Live or Pro Tools

Key insight: 32GB or more of DDR4 RAM is recommended for heavy multimedia workloads to avoid system slowdowns.

High-Performance Computing (HPC) & Data Processing

Scientific research, financial modeling, and AI development rely on massive datasets and parallel processing—tasks where DDR4 RAM plays a foundational role.

• Supports large-scale simulations in computational fluid dynamics, weather forecasting, and molecular modeling
• Enables efficient training of machine learning models by keeping datasets and intermediate calculations in fast-access memory
• Facilitates real-time analytics in big data platforms like Hadoop and Spark
• Used in high-frequency trading systems where microseconds matter and low-latency memory access is crucial

Technical note: ECC (Error-Correcting Code) DDR4 modules are often used in HPC environments to prevent data corruption.

Servers & Enterprise Applications

Data centers and enterprise IT infrastructure depend on DDR4 RAM for reliability, scalability, and multi-user performance.

• Supports virtualization, database management (e.g., MySQL, Oracle), and cloud computing platforms
• Handles concurrent access from hundreds or thousands of users in business applications (ERP, CRM)
• Enables efficient caching and in-memory computing for faster transaction processing
• Used in redundant server clusters to ensure uptime and fault tolerance

Best practice: Enterprise servers often use registered (RDIMM) or load-reduced (LRDIMM) DDR4 for improved stability under heavy loads.

Embedded Systems

DDR4 is increasingly used in advanced embedded systems that require reliable, high-speed memory in compact form factors.

• Automotive: Powers infotainment systems, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), and autonomous driving modules
• Consumer Electronics: Found in smart TVs, gaming consoles (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox), and high-end smartphones
• Industrial: Used in robotics, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and automation systems for real-time control
• Medical: Supports diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT scans), patient monitoring, and portable medical devices
• IoT & Security: Enables smart home hubs, wearables, surveillance cameras, and access control systems with edge computing capabilities

Innovation spotlight: Low-power DDR4 (LPDDR4) variants extend battery life in mobile and portable devices.

Virtualization & Virtual Machines (VMs)

Virtualization platforms like VMware, Hyper-V, and KVM rely on abundant DDR4 RAM to run multiple isolated operating systems on a single physical host.

• Each VM allocates a portion of RAM for its OS, applications, and processes—more RAM allows more VMs per host
• Enables efficient resource sharing in cloud environments and development/testing labs
• Supports memory-intensive applications within VMs, such as databases, web servers, and containerized microservices
• Facilitates live migration and snapshot features without performance degradation

Capacity tip: Servers running multiple VMs typically use 64GB to 256GB+ of DDR4 RAM for optimal density and performance.

Professional Insight: While DDR5 is emerging, DDR4 remains the most cost-effective and widely supported option for most applications. For businesses and consumers alike, investing in high-quality DDR4 RAM from reputable brands ensures long-term compatibility, stability, and performance. Always match RAM speed and capacity to the workload—over-provisioning can future-proof systems, while under-provisioning leads to bottlenecks.

Application	Recommended DDR4 Capacity	Speed (Typical)	Special Features
Gaming (Enthusiast)	16GB – 32GB	3000MHz – 3600MHz	Low latency, XMP support
Content Creation	32GB – 64GB	3200MHz – 3600MHz	High bandwidth, ECC (optional)
HPC / AI Research	64GB – 256GB+	2666MHz – 3200MHz	ECC, Registered DIMMs
Enterprise Servers	64GB – 1TB+	2400MHz – 3200MHz	RDIMM/LRDIMM, ECC
Embedded Systems	4GB – 16GB	2133MHz – 3200MHz	LPDDR4, ruggedized designs
Virtualization	64GB – 512GB+	2933MHz – 3200MHz	High capacity, ECC support

Additional Considerations

• Compatibility: Ensure motherboard and CPU support DDR4; mixing with DDR3 or DDR5 is not possible
• Power Efficiency: DDR4 operates at 1.2V (vs. 1.5V for DDR3), reducing power consumption and heat output
• Scalability: Most motherboards support dual-channel or quad-channel configurations for increased bandwidth
• Firmware Support: UEFI BIOS updates may be required for optimal DDR4 performance and stability
• Future-Proofing: While DDR5 is available, DDR4 remains dominant in price/performance for most users through 2025

How to Choose a DDR4 RAM-Compatible Motherboard: A Comprehensive Guide

Selecting the right DDR4 RAM-compatible motherboard is essential for building a reliable, high-performance PC. Whether you're assembling a gaming rig, a workstation for professionals, or a general-purpose desktop, compatibility between your motherboard and DDR4 RAM directly impacts system stability, speed, and future upgrade potential. This guide explores the key factors retailers and builders must consider when choosing motherboards that support DDR4 memory, including market trends, compatibility checks, brand reliability, and long-term value.

Important Note: While DDR4 RAM was once the standard for modern PCs, newer systems are transitioning to DDR5. Always verify that your CPU, motherboard, and RAM all support the same memory generation. DDR4 RAM is not physically or electrically compatible with DDR5 motherboards, and vice versa.

Key Factors in Choosing a DDR4 RAM-Compatible Motherboard

1. Target Market and Use Case

   The intended audience significantly influences motherboard and RAM selection. Retailers and system builders must align product offerings with customer needs:

   • Gamers: Prioritize motherboards with robust power delivery, support for high-speed DDR4 (3200MHz+), and overclocking capabilities (e.g., Intel Z690 or AMD X570 chipsets).
   • Professionals: Focus on stability, ECC (Error-Correcting Code) support (on select platforms), and multi-channel memory configurations for content creation, engineering, or data analysis.
   • General Consumers: Look for cost-effective B-series chipsets (e.g., B660, B550) with reliable DDR4 support and adequate expansion options.
2. Stay Updated with Industry Trends

   While DDR5 is gaining traction, DDR4 remains widely used due to its affordability and mature ecosystem. However, businesses should monitor:

   • The decline in DDR4 production and potential price fluctuations.
   • Continued demand for DDR4 in budget builds and enterprise environments.
   • Hybrid motherboards that support both DDR4 and DDR5 (rare but emerging).
3. Evaluate Profit Margins and Pricing Strategy

   Retailers must balance performance and profitability. Consider:

   • Higher-margin premium motherboards with advanced features (Wi-Fi 6, PCIe 4.0, RGB lighting).
   • Budget-friendly DDR4 motherboards that appeal to cost-conscious buyers.
   • Bundle deals (e.g., CPU + motherboard + RAM) to increase average order value.
4. Ensure Quality and Reliability

   System stability begins with component quality. Evaluate:

   • Motherboard build quality (VRM design, heatsinks, PCB layers).
   • RAM compatibility lists (QVL) provided by motherboard manufacturers.
   • Thermal performance under sustained memory loads.
   • Low return rates and minimal RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) issues.
5. Assess Brand Reputation

   Trusted brands like ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, and ASRock offer consistent quality and driver support. Benefits include:

   • Strong customer trust and brand loyalty.
   • Better resale value for prebuilt systems.
   • Easier troubleshooting due to widespread community support.
6. Review Warranty and Manufacturer Support

   A solid warranty protects both the retailer and end-user. Look for:

   • At least a 3-year warranty on motherboards.
   • Global or regional service centers for faster replacements.
   • Dedicated technical support for resellers and system integrators.
7. Offer a Diverse Product Range

   Cater to various customer segments by stocking motherboards and DDR4 RAM across multiple tiers:

   • Capacities: 8GB, 16GB, 32GB kits.
   • Speeds: 2666MHz (baseline), 3200MHz (sweet spot), 3600MHz+ (performance).
   • Form Factors: ATX, micro-ATX, mini-ITX for different case sizes.
   • Chipsets: Intel H610/B660/Z690 or AMD A520/B550/X570 for varying feature sets.
8. Verify Full System Compatibility

   DDR4 compatibility goes beyond the motherboard slot. Ensure full system harmony:

   • CPU Support: Confirm the processor supports DDR4 (e.g., Intel 10th–12th Gen non-KF models, AMD Ryzen 1000–5000 series).
   • BIOS Version: Newer motherboards may require a BIOS update to support the latest CPUs and RAM profiles.
   • Expansion Slots: Check PCIe version and lane availability for GPUs and NVMe drives.
   • Power Supply: Ensure sufficient wattage and connectors for high-end builds.
9. Consult Retailer and User Reviews

   Real-world feedback is invaluable. Analyze:

   • Performance benchmarks and stability tests from tech reviewers.
   • Common issues reported (e.g., memory compatibility bugs, BIOS quirks).
   • Reseller forums and distributor feedback on product reliability.
10. Take Advantage of Bulk Purchase Discounts

    Buying in volume improves margins. Consider:

    • Negotiating with distributors for tiered pricing on popular DDR4 motherboard models.
    • Stocking high-turnover SKUs to reduce inventory risk.
    • Seasonal promotions or rebates from manufacturers.
11. Assess Pre- and Post-Sales Manufacturer Support

    Strong support enhances customer satisfaction and reduces service burden:

    • Availability of detailed manuals, FAQs, and driver downloads.
    • Responsive customer service for technical inquiries.
    • Access to firmware updates and memory compatibility improvements.

Factor	Key Considerations	Recommended Brands	Compatibility Tips
Memory Support	DDR4 speed, capacity, dual-channel support	Crucial, Corsair, G.Skill, Kingston	Check QVL; enable XMP/DOCP in BIOS
Chipset Compatibility	Intel vs. AMD; PCIe and USB features	ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, ASRock	Match CPU socket and chipset generation
BIOS & Firmware	Update availability, ease of flashing	All major brands (check support pages)	Update BIOS before installing new CPU/RAM
Thermal & Power Design	VRM cooling, power phases	ASUS ROG, MSI MEG, Gigabyte AORUS	Ensure adequate airflow in chassis
Expansion & Connectivity	M.2 slots, USB ports, Wi-Fi, LAN	ASUS, MSI, Intel, Realtek	Plan for future upgrades (SSDs, peripherals)

Expert Tip: Always test your DDR4 RAM and motherboard combination in a real-world setup before mass deployment. Even if components are on the QVL, subtle BIOS settings (like voltage or timings) may need adjustment for optimal stability, especially with high-speed RAM kits.

Final Recommendations

• Double-check CPU and motherboard compatibility using tools like PCPartPicker or manufacturer websites.
• Choose motherboards with at least two DDR4 slots to allow for future upgrades.
• Prefer boards with BIOS flashback features for easier firmware updates.
• Educate customers on enabling XMP (Intel) or DOCP (AMD) profiles to achieve rated RAM speeds.
• Keep a sample build on hand to demonstrate compatibility and performance.

Selecting the right DDR4 RAM-compatible motherboard involves more than just matching a slot type. It requires a strategic approach that balances performance, reliability, market demand, and long-term support. By focusing on compatibility, brand trust, and customer needs, retailers and builders can deliver systems that perform reliably and satisfy users across all segments—from casual users to hardcore enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions About DDR4 RAM Compatibility

Q: Can DDR4 RAM be used with any motherboard?

A: No, DDR4 RAM is not universally compatible with all motherboards. It can only be used with motherboards that specifically support DDR4 memory. Each motherboard is designed to work with a particular type of RAM (DDR3, DDR4, DDR5, etc.), and this information is clearly listed in the product specifications.

To ensure compatibility, always check your motherboard’s official documentation or manufacturer website to confirm DDR4 support. Key details to look for include:

• Supported memory type (e.g., DDR4 3200MHz)
• Maximum supported RAM capacity
• Number of available RAM slots
• CPU and chipset compatibility (e.g., Intel 10th+ gen or AMD Ryzen series)

Using incompatible RAM can lead to system failure to boot or instability during operation.

Q: What happens if one installs DDR4 RAM on a DDR3 motherboard?

A: It is physically impossible to install DDR4 RAM into a DDR3 motherboard due to fundamental design differences between the two memory types.

The key reasons include:

• Different notch positions: The notch (or key) on a DDR4 module is located in a different position than on a DDR3 module, preventing insertion into the wrong slot.
• Pin count and layout: DDR3 has 240 pins, while DDR4 also has 288 pins but with a different spacing and electrical configuration.
• Voltage incompatibility: DDR3 typically runs at 1.5V (or 1.35V for DDR3L), whereas DDR4 operates at 1.2V, making them electrically incompatible.

Attempting to force the wrong RAM type into a motherboard can damage both the RAM stick and the motherboard’s memory slot. Always verify physical and electrical compatibility before purchasing.

Q: Can one use DDR3 RAM on a DDR4 motherboard?

A: No, DDR3 RAM cannot be used on a DDR4 motherboard for the same physical and technical reasons mentioned above. Even though both are DIMM modules, they are engineered to different standards.

Major differences include:

• Technology generation: DDR4 is a newer standard with improved efficiency, bandwidth, and power management over DDR3.
• Speed and bandwidth: DDR4 starts at 2133 MT/s and goes up to 3200+ MT/s, while DDR3 typically ranges from 800 to 2133 MT/s.
• Operating voltage: As noted, DDR4 uses 1.2V vs. DDR3’s 1.5V, reducing power consumption and heat output.
• Timings and latency: While DDR4 has higher base latency, its higher clock speeds result in better overall performance.

Due to these incompatibilities, mixing DDR3 and DDR4 is not possible, even with adapters or converters, which do not exist for this purpose.

Q: Can one use DDR4 RAM on a DDR4 motherboard?

A: Yes, DDR4 RAM is fully compatible with motherboards designed for DDR4 memory. This is the intended pairing and ensures optimal performance, stability, and future scalability.

Benefits of using DDR4 RAM on a compatible DDR4 motherboard include:

• Higher data transfer rates: Improved multitasking, faster application loading, and better performance in memory-intensive tasks like gaming, video editing, and virtualization.
• Lower power consumption: Ideal for laptops and energy-efficient desktop builds.
• Greater capacity per module: Supports larger RAM sticks (up to 64GB per module in consumer systems).
• Support for XMP/DOCP profiles: Enables easy overclocking and performance tuning directly through the BIOS.

When upgrading, ensure that your CPU also supports DDR4 memory and that you’re using the correct speed and configuration (dual-channel, etc.) for best results. Always refer to your motherboard’s QVL (Qualified Vendor List) for tested and verified RAM kits.

Quick Reference: DDR3 vs DDR4 RAM Comparison

Feature	DDR3 RAM	DDR4 RAM
Release Year	2007	2014
Pin Count	240 (DIMM), 204 (SO-DIMM)	288 (DIMM), 260 (SO-DIMM)
Voltage	1.5V (1.35V for DDR3L)	1.2V
Speed Range (MT/s)	800 – 2133	2133 – 4800+ (consumer), higher in enthusiast models
Notch Position	Centered	Slightly off-center
Compatibility	DDR3 motherboards only	DDR4 motherboards only

Note: There is no backward or forward compatibility between DDR3 and DDR4. Always match your RAM type to your motherboard’s specifications for reliable system operation.