RAM (Random Access Memory):
Imagine RAM as your workspace or desk. It’s like a table you use to work on a project. You can spread out papers, write notes, and rearrange things easily. RAM in a smartphone is where the phone temporarily keeps the apps you’re currently using, along with their data. For example, if you’re playing a game, the game’s graphics, your progress, and other temporary data are placed on this desk. However, when you’re done playing the game or close the app, the desk is cleared, and the information is gone. RAM is speedy but limited in space, and it’s wiped clean every time you turn off your phone.
Example with a Smartphone:
Let’s say you’re using a map app to navigate. The map data and your current location details are stored in RAM. If you switch to another app, the map data is removed from RAM to make room for the new app’s data. If you close the map app, everything related to the map is cleared from RAM.
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ROM (Read-Only Memory):
Now, picture ROM as a bookshelf in your room. Once you place a book on that shelf, it stays there permanently, and you can always go back to read it. ROM in a smartphone contains crucial information that the phone needs to work, like the operating system (e.g., Android, iOS) and built-in apps. You can’t easily change or delete these. It’s read-only, meaning you can read the information, but it stays as it is. Even when you turn off your phone, the information on this shelf remains intact and doesn’t disappear.
Example with a Smartphone:
In your smartphone’s ROM, you have the fundamental software that makes your phone function, like the operating system (e.g., Android or iOS) and essential apps that were installed when you bought the phone. These stay there permanently, allowing your phone to turn on, display the user interface, and have pre-installed apps available no matter what.
In summary, RAM is like a temporary workspace for quick access and manipulation of data, similar to a desk where you work on a project. ROM is like a permanent library of essential instructions and data, such as the operating system and built-in apps, comparable to a bookshelf that you can always refer to but can’t change.
Why low RAM, but high ROM capacity
Let’s use an example to explain why we need less RAM but more ROM in a smartphone.
Imagine you have a smartphone with a lot of RAM but very little ROM. Let’s say it has 8GB of RAM but only 16GB of ROM.
Scenario: High RAM, Low ROM Smartphone
In a high RAM, low ROM scenario, multitasking is smooth, and you can open numerous apps simultaneously. Yet, due to limited ROM, storing apps permanently is constrained, allowing only a few installations. The abundance of RAM facilitates smooth app switching, but the scarce ROM limits the number of stored apps.
Now, let’s flip the scenario.
Scenario: Low RAM, High ROM Smartphone
In this scenario, let’s say you have a smartphone with 2GB of RAM but a massive 128GB of ROM.
With limited RAM, running multiple apps at once becomes difficult. Closing apps may be necessary if you reach the RAM limit. However, ample ROM enables storing numerous apps and essential files permanently without constant deletions to free up space. More ROM is crucial for long-term storage, while sufficient RAM ensures smooth multitasking and swift app access. A balanced combination of both is key to optimal smartphone performance.
