​The Impact of RAM on Game Loading Times: Benchmarks and Tips

Introduction

RAM (Random Access Memory) is the unsung hero of gaming performance. While graphics cards and processors often steal the spotlight, RAM plays a crucial role behind the scenes.

It’s the fast, volatile memory that allows your system to juggle game assets, textures, and level data seamlessly. Without sufficient RAM, your gaming experience can suffer from sluggish loading times, stuttering, and frame drops.

In this article, we’ll delve into the impact of RAM on game loading times. Whether you’re building a budget gaming PC, assembling a mid-range rig, or rocking a high-end setup, understanding RAM’s role will empower you to fine-tune your gaming experience.

How RAM Affects Game Loading

Game Assets and Textures:

When you start a game the game engine begins loading various assets from storage (such as your hard drive or SSD) into the computer’s memory (RAM). These assets include:

• Character Models: These are 3D representations of in-game characters, enemies and NPCs (non-player characters).
• Textures: Textures are images applied to 3D models to give them realistic surfaces. For example, a character’s skin, clothing or the bark on a tree.
• Sound Files: Game audio, including background music, voice acting, sound effects and ambient sounds, is loaded into memory.
• Environment Details: This category includes everything from the terrain (like hills, forests, or buildings) to interactive objects (such as doors, chests, or collectables).
• RAM acts as a temporary storage area for these assets. The faster your RAM, the quicker it can retrieve and hold these data chunks.

Level Data and Streaming:

• In open-world games or large maps, level data is streamed dynamically as you move through the game world.
• RAM plays a critical role in buffering and managing this streaming process. Insufficient RAM can lead to stuttering as new areas load.

RAM Speed (Frequency):

• RAM speed, measured in megahertz (MHz), affects how quickly data can be read from or written to RAM. Opt for RAM modules with higher speeds (e.g., 3000 MHz to 3600 MHz).
  • Faster RAM allows quicker data retrieval during loading, especially for games with high-resolution textures.

Capacity (Size):

• Aim for at least 16GB of RAM. It provides a comfortable buffer for most modern games.
• If you frequently multitask (e.g., running game capture software or streaming), consider 32GB or more.

Dual-Channel vs. Single-Channel:

• Use two identical RAM sticks (dual-channel) instead of a single stick (single-channel).
• Dual-channel setups enhance data transfer rates, reducing loading times.

Optimisation Tips:

• Balanced Approach: Aim for a balance between speed and capacity. 16GB is a good starting point for most gamers.
• Enable XMP/DOCP: Activate the XMP (Intel) or DOCP (AMD) profile in BIOS to optimise RAM settings.
• Monitor Usage: Use tools like Task Manager to check RAM usage during gaming. Avoid running out of memory.

Benchmarks and Real-world Tests

Let’s dive into the benchmarks and real-world tests comparing DDR4 and DDR5 RAM, specifically focusing on game loading times. Remember results can vary based on the specific benchmarking software and games used.

DDR5 vs. DDR4: Benchmarks and Performance

UL Procyon Benchmark (Adobe Premiere Pro):

• The UL Procyon benchmark runs a consistent workload in Adobe Premiere Pro.
• DDR5-4800 outperformed DDR4 in this test, showcasing that higher bandwidth can positively impact performance.

3DMark Time Spy Test:

• In a 3DMark Time Spy test, DDR5 showed only a 7% improvement over DDR4.
• While the gain may seem modest, it’s essential to consider that DDR5 gives Intel’s 12th-gen “Alder Lake” processors an advantage. These chips work best when paired with DDR5 RAM.

Game-Specific Loading Times:

1. Variability Across Games:
   • Not all games respond equally to RAM upgrades. Some show significant improvements, while others may be less sensitive.
   • For example, fast-paced shooters with smaller levels may not benefit as much from faster RAM compared to open-world RPGs or simulation games.
2. Open-World Games and Large Maps:
   • Open-world titles, such as The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Red Dead Redemption 2, or Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, rely heavily on streaming data.
   • Faster RAM allows seamless textures loading terrain and assets as you explore vast game worlds.
   • Large maps with dynamic content (e.g., weather changes, NPCs, and events) benefit from RAM’s ability to handle frequent data requests.

DDR5 Availability and Latency

Limited DDR5 Availability:

• While DDR5 is the future, availability remains limited, especially for high-speed variants.
• Gamers upgrading their systems need to consider DDR4 as a more accessible option.

Understanding CAS Latency:

• CAS latency (CL) is the delay between requesting and receiving data from RAM.
• DDR5-4800 may have a higher CL (e.g., 40) compared to DDR4, but this doesn’t necessarily translate to worse performance.
• The impact of latency depends on the specific workload and overall system architecture.

Limited Availability and High-End Variants

1. Current State of DDR5:
   • DDR5 is the next-generation RAM standard, promising improved performance over DDR4.
   • However, as of now, DDR5 availability remains limited, especially for high-speed variants.
2. High-End Modules:
   • High-end DDR5 modules, such as DDR5-4800, offer impressive bandwidth but are not yet widely accessible.
   • Gamers and enthusiasts seeking the latest technology may face challenges sourcing DDR5 RAM.

Understanding CAS Latency (CL)

What Is CAS Latency?:

• CAS latency (CL) measures the delay between requesting data from RAM and receiving it.
• It is specified in clock cycles (e.g., CL 40 means 40 clock cycles).

Comparing DDR4 and DDR5 Latency:

• DDR5-4800 has a CAS latency of 40, which might seem high compared to DDR4.
• However, DDR5 operates at a higher clock speed, so the actual time delay is shorter than it appears.
• The impact of latency depends on the overall system architecture and workload.

Optimising RAM for Faster Loading

1. RAM Speed (Frequency):
   • The sweet spot for gaming performance often lies in the 3000 MHz to 3600 MHz range.
   • Faster RAM allows quicker data retrieval during loading, especially for games with high-resolution textures.
2. Dual-Channel Configuration:
   • Use two identical RAM sticks (dual-channel) instead of a single stick (single-channel).
   • Dual-channel setups enhance data transfer rates, reducing loading times.
3. Capacity:
   • Aim for at least 16GB of RAM. It provides a comfortable buffer for most modern games.
   • If you frequently multitask (e.g., running game capture software or streaming), consider 32GB or more.
4. Enable XMP Profiles:
   • XMP (Intel) or DOCP (AMD) profiles automatically configure RAM settings for optimal performance.
   • Enabling XMP ensures that your RAM runs at its advertised speed and timings.

Future Trends and RAM Technologies

1. DDR6 RAM:
   • DDR6 is on the horizon, promising even higher speeds and improved efficiency.
   • Expect increased bandwidth, lower power consumption and enhanced gaming performance and content creation.
2. Potential Impact:
   • Faster RAM will continue to reduce loading times, especially in data-intensive games.
   • DDR6’s adoption will depend on its availability and compatibility with upcoming CPUs and motherboards.

The Role of SSDs and RAM Caching

1. SSDs (Solid State Drives):
   • SSDs complement RAM by providing fast storage for game files and system data.
   • Loading times benefit significantly from having games installed on an SSD.
2. RAM Caching:
   • Certain motherboards use a part of their memory (RAM) as a cache to speed up access to frequently used files.
   • This hybrid approach combines the speed of RAM with the capacity of an SSD.

Conclusion

RAM isn’t just an afterthought; it’s the bridge connecting your hardware to the virtual worlds you explore. Whether loading textures or ensuring seamless transitions, RAM plays a crucial role in enhancing your overall experience.

Remember these key takeaways:

• Optimise Your RAM: Balance speed, capacity, and compatibility based on your needs.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on DDR6 developments and consider upgrading when it becomes mainstream.
• Embrace SSDs: Invest in an SSD for faster game installations and system responsiveness.

So, fellow gamers, let’s raise our virtual mugs to RAM—the unsung hero that keeps our adventures smooth and our loading screens short!