The Difference between RAM and ROM

The first difference between the two is that RAM is a “Random-Access Memory” and ROM is a “Read-Only Memory”. RAM (Random-Access Memory) is volatile while ROM is non-volatile. Which means that a RAM, being volatile, loses any information its holding when the power is turned off, and that a ROM, being non-volatile, does not require a constant source of power or electricity to retain the information stored on it. What that basically means is that RAM is for temporary storage, while ROM is for permanent storage.

A ROM chip is used primarily in the startup process of a computer, while a RAM chip is used during or in the normal operations of the computer once the operating system is loaded.

A RAM chip can store multiple GB of data, ranging from 1 to 256 GB per chip, while a ROM chip stores several MB of data, usually from 4 to 8 MB per chip.

Examples:

A good example of a ROM is the computer BIOS, which is a PROM chip that stores the programming needed to begin the initial startup process of the computer. Using a non-volatile storage medium is the only way to start the process for computers and other devices. ROM chips were also used before in gaming cartridges, like the original Nintendo, Gameboy, and others.

RAM chips are also used in computers, as well as other devices, to store temporary information produced by programs quickly. It is one of the fastest types of memory, allowing it to switch quickly between tasks. An example would be how the internet browser is loaded into the RAM and is running from it.

There are many other different types of ROM, including PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) that is manufactured as blank memory (e.g. CD-ROM) and EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). There are also other different types of RAM, including DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and SRAM (Static Random Access Memory).