VRAM: What is it, and how much do you really need?

VRAM (Video Ram) is dedicated computer memory used to store pixels and other graphical data. Unlike System RAM, which handles general computing tasks, VRAM is optimised for high-speed graphic rendering, ensuring smooth frame rates and fast texture loading in games, 3D Rendering, Video Editing as well as AI Processing. To better understand how RAM works in comparison to VRAM, read here

When your GPU processes an image, it retrieves textures, shaders, and frame buffers from VRAM instead of relying on slower system memory (RAM). This allows real-time rendering of complex graphics with minimal shuttering or lag.

Different Types of VRAM

VRAM has evolved massively since it first came out. Here is a breakdown of each type of ram and when they were used.

1.Synchronous Graphics RAM (SGRAM) – Early GPU memory

• • Description: A single-ported memory type with the ability to modify data in a single operation

• • Use Case: Early GPUs (Pre 2000s) and older 3D graphics applications

• • Why It’s Obsolete: Modern GPUs require much higher bandwidth and efficiency

2.GGDR (Graphics Double Data Rate)- The standard for modern GPUs

GDDR5

• • Bandwidth 28-48GB/s per chip

• • Use case: Older GPUs and budget graphics cards

GDDR5X

• • Bandwidth: Up to 56GB/s per chip

• • Use Case: Found in GPUs like GTX 1080 TI, offers better speeds than GDDR5

GDDR6

• • Bandwidth: 64 GB/s per chip

• • Use Case: Most modern gaming and workstation GPUs (RTX 2000, RTX 3000, RX6000)

GDDR6X

• • Bandwidth 82-112 GB/s per chip

• • Use Case: Found in high-end GPUs such as the RTX 3090 and RTX 4090

GDDR7 (Upcoming)

• • Expected Bandwidth: Over 200GB/s per chip.

• • Use Case: Future Gaming and AI-focused GPUs.

Aswell as GGDR RAM and Synchronous graphics RAM, there is HBM (High Bandwidth Memory) and LPDDR (Low Power DDR) but HBM is usually used for AI GPUs and found in professional grade GPUs such as the NVIDIA Tesla and AMD Radeon Pro whereas LPDDR is used for smartphones, consoles and laptops.

VRAM vs. System RAM: What’s the Difference?

While both VRAM and system RAM are types of memory, they serve different purposes in your computer, particularly when it comes to graphical performance. Here’s a quick comparison:

System RAM

System RAM (Random Access Memory) is the memory used by the CPU to store data and instructions for general tasks, such as running applications, browsing the web, and managing background processes. It is much faster than traditional storage (like an SSD or HDD) and provides the CPU with quick access to the data it needs to perform tasks.

• • Capacity: System RAM typically ranges from 8GB to 64GB or more, depending on your needs. It is used for all general tasks, not just gaming or rendering.

• • Function: System RAM is designed for general-purpose computing and can handle tasks like loading files, managing operating system processes, and running applications.

VRAM

VRAM, on the other hand, is specifically designed for handling the graphical tasks of the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). It stores textures, frame buffers, shaders, and other graphical data that the GPU needs to process images and render video in real time.

• • Capacity: VRAM is usually smaller in capacity compared to system RAM, ranging from 4GB to 24GB or more in high-end GPUs. However, its bandwidth (speed) is much higher to accommodate the fast-paced demands of rendering graphics.

• • Function: VRAM is optimized for high-bandwidth access to graphical data, ensuring fast rendering and smooth performance during tasks like gaming, 3D rendering, and video editing.

Key Differences

• • Purpose: System RAM handles general computing tasks, while VRAM is dedicated to graphic-intensive operations like gaming and 3D rendering.

• • Performance Impact: VRAM’s performance directly impacts the quality and smoothness of graphical tasks. Insufficient VRAM in gaming or video editing can cause lag, stuttering, and crashes, whereas system RAM issues are more likely to cause slower overall system performance.

• • Speed and Bandwidth: VRAM operates at much higher speeds and bandwidth compared to system RAM, as it needs to support the rapid processing of graphics data. System RAM is optimized for general tasks but doesn’t need to match the speed of VRAM for its specific role.

How much VRAM do you really need?

Below, we have comprised multiple tables with different amounts of recommended ram for each use case: