NAND is a type of non-volatile memory, while DRAM is a volatile memory. They are the two most common semiconductor chips readily available in the market. DRAM stands for Dynamic Random Access Memory, & NAND refers to the NOT- AND logic circuit used in flash memories.
Let’s delve into some differences between DRAM vs. NAND in more detail to understand them better.
DRAM vs. NAND Flash Memory
Both DRAM & NAND differ based on performance, capacity & more, making each suitable for various enterprise applications. The following section will discuss the differences between DRAM vs. NAND flash memory.
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Features
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DRAM
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NAND Flash
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Non-Volatile
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No
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Yes
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Erase Mechanism
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Bit
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Block
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Software complexity
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Simple
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Complex
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Write Latency
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≈ 20–50ns
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≈ 100μs
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Read-Latency
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≈ 20–50ns
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10–25μs
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Memory Endurance
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1015
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105–104
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Byte-addressable
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Yes
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Yes
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DRAM vs. NAND: Architecture
The greater the number of cells in both NAND & DRAM, the larger the storage capacity. Each cell in DRAM consists of a switch & capacitor, which measure accumulated charges in 0s & 1s. In contrast, the NAND cells are grouped in blocks, where each cell consists of a storage transistor, control & floating gate, controlling & measuring the flow of electric charges.
DRAM vs. NAND: Working
DRAM keeps the charge in the capacitor and reads it through the circuit for data accessibility. During data writing, the charge is transferred to capacitors that are charged or discharged based on the input signal. On the other hand, NAND stores & reads charges through a non-logic gate design rather than a capacitor. When writing data, the input signal in NAND controls the state of logic gates, while the output signal indicates the stored data.
DRAM vs. NAND: Memory type
DRAM is a volatile memory, which means data is lost when power is off. In contrast, NAND a non-volatile memory retains data even during power failures or shutdowns. DRAM is the main system memory like RAMs, which stores data temporarily to run system operations. On the other hand, NAND is used in Solid State Drives (SSDs) and USB flash drives to store data permanently.
DRAM vs. NAND: Write Cycle
NAND storage devices have limited write cycles and wear out over time. In contrast, DRAM is not limited by the write cycles as it constantly refreshes the data. However, frequent writes in DRAM can impact the performance but lower the lifespan of NAND memory.
DRAM vs. NAND: Speed
DRAM is 100 times faster read/write speed than NAND and is used in computer memory for real-time operations. On the other hand, NAND is much slower but provides a large storage capacity to save data on its NAND chip permanently.
DRAM vs. NAND: Charge Density
NAND has a higher charge density than DRAM as it stores multiple bits of data per unit cell, depending on the NAND flash type. In contrast, DRAM stores data one bit per cell to prioritize speed over storage capacity.
DRAM Vs NAND: Form Factor
Many memories are available in DRAM & NAND technologies in various form factors (sizes). NAND products such as SSDs come in 2.5, 3.5 inch & M.2 form factors, while DRAM products like RAM come in SO-DIMM or DIMM sizes.
DRAM vs. NAND: Error Correction Codes (ECC)
Both DRAM & NAND flash have Error Correction Codes (ECC) to identify & fix common errors in data, offering enhanced performance without issues.
DRAM vs. NAND: Power Consumption
DRAM memories are much faster than NAND memories but consume a lot of power in the process, increasing the overall operations cost.
DRAM vs. NAND: Reliability
In terms of reliability, NAND & DRAM differ greatly from each other. DRAM refreshes its capacitance after a definite interval to keep data stable. In contrast, NAND stores the data charge in logic gates, which don’t require periodic refreshing. When it comes to data reliability NAND has an edge over DRAM memories.
DRAM vs. NAND: Usage & Application
DRAMs' faster read & write cycles make them a sought-after product for real-time operations & temporary storage solutions. However, NAND has a large storage capacity, but slower read & write speeds, making them suitable for flash memory storage devices such as SSDs, smartphones & USB flash drives.
DRAM vs. NAND: Cost
NAND is much more cost-effective than DRAM as it offers higher storage capacities at lower rates. DRAM price ranges from $20 to $120,999, while NAND flash memories price varies between $39 to $799,999. It varies based on several factors such as capacity, speed, quality, brand, workload & more.
DRAM vs. NAND: Manufacturers
Many manufacturers make NAND & DRAM chips for enterprises due to the growing demands. Here is a list of some famous NAND & DRAM manufacturers at Computing Worlds.
- Dell DRAM & NAND manufacturers
- Samsung DRAM & NAND manufacturers
- Crucial DRAM & NAND manufacturers
NAND vs. DRAM: Pros & Cons
Each DRAM & NAND has various pros & cons in different enterprise applications, some of which are listed below:
Pros of DRAM
- Speed: Faster performance compare to NAND flash
- Availability: DRAM is available in many technologies like SRAM for specific workloads
Cons of DRAM
- Cost: More expensive than NAND flash memory
- Capacity: Offer less storage capacity, making it less economical for higher storage needs
Pros of NAND
- Capacity: Provide higher storage capacity great for businesses requiring faster storage solutions
- Scalability: NAND flash is available in many technologies like MLC, offering a wide range of scalability options based on specific requirements
Cons of NAND
- Speed: Offer less speed than DRAMs
- Lifespan: Due to the limited read/write cycle, it wears out faster than DRAM
NAND vs. DRAM: What to Choose?
Before buying storage devices it's crucial to evaluate your needs & budget. Both NAND & DRAM have their distinct features but are only beneficial to the workloads it's designed for. Computing Worlds offers a wide range of computer memories for sale at the best price, some of which are listed below.
Popular Computer DRAM Memories for Sale:
Popular Computer NAND Flash Memories for Sale:
Frequently Ask Questions:
Are SSDs Considered NAND or DRAM?
SSDs primarily use NAND flash memory for data storage, making it suitable for long-term storage.
Why Is DRAM Faster than NAND?
DRAM is faster than NAND due to various factors such as architecture, charge cycle, quick access & volatile nature.
All aforementioned features of DRAM & NAND chips differ in terms of constriction, operation, & performance, among others. Both technologies have wide applications in both AI & server industries. Therefore, understanding other differences between these technologies is almost crucial to reap its various benefits. To understand more about NAND flash memories, here is a blog about the difference between NAND vs. NOR.
For more information on technologies, stay tuned to the Computing Worlds blog.
