DDR4 vs DDR5 in 2026: Which Memory Should You Buy?
By aiden s ·
For the last couple of years, choosing between DDR4 vs DDR5 was easy: go DDR5 for any new build. In 2026, it isn't that simple. A worldwide memory shortage has pushed prices up sharply, and DDR5 has been hit hardest. This guide explains the real difference, what it costs today, and which one makes sense for your PC.
What's the difference?
DDR4 and DDR5 are two generations of computer memory (RAM). They are not interchangeable. They use different slots, so your motherboard decides which one you can use.
- DDR4 is the older standard. It's used by AMD's AM4 platform (Ryzen 5000 and older) and by many Intel 12th to 14th gen motherboards.
- DDR5 is newer and faster. It's required by AMD's AM5 platform (Ryzen 7000, 8000 and 9000) and Intel's latest Core Ultra processors, and it's an option on many Intel 12th to 14th gen boards.
DDR5 runs at much higher speeds, typically 6000MT/s in a gaming PC compared with 3200 to 3600MT/s for DDR4. That extra bandwidth helps most in processor-heavy games, video editing and other demanding work.
DDR4 vs DDR5 prices in 2026
Here's what typical kits cost in the UK in September 2026:
| Kit | DDR4 | DDR5 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16GB (2x8GB) | about £145 | about £260 | +£115 |
| 32GB (2x16GB) | about £210 | about £440 | +£230 |
| 64GB (2x32GB) | about £665 | about £715 | +£50 |
The gap on 16GB and 32GB kits is large. It's often more than the cost of stepping up a whole tier of graphics card. For comparison, the difference between an RTX 5050 and an RTX 5060 is about £60.
The motherboard adds to the gap too. A basic AM5 board costs about £25 more than a basic AM4 one.
Does DDR5 make games faster?
Yes, but it's usually the processor that makes the difference, not the memory itself. DDR5 platforms come with newer, faster processors. A Ryzen 5 7600 on AM5 is clearly faster in games than a Ryzen 5 5600 on AM4, especially in processor-heavy titles.
But in most games, especially at 1440p and above, the graphics card matters far more. If spending extra on DDR5 means buying a weaker graphics card, you'll usually end up with lower frame rates overall.
When to choose DDR4
DDR4 makes sense in 2026 if:
- Your budget is under about £1,200. The money saved goes further on a better graphics card. See our best gaming PC under £1000 build.
- You're upgrading an existing AM4 or DDR4 Intel PC. A drop-in processor upgrade, like a Ryzen 7 5700X, gives a big boost for little money.
- You mainly play at 1440p or 4K, where the graphics card is the limit anyway.
When to choose DDR5
DDR5 is the better choice if:
- You're spending £1,500 or more. At that level, a faster processor is worth having.
- You want an upgrade path. AM5 should support new AMD processors for years, so you can upgrade the processor later without replacing the board and memory.
- You play processor-heavy games at high frame rates, like competitive shooters on a 240Hz monitor, or big strategy and simulation games.
- You do video editing, 3D or other heavy work, where extra bandwidth helps.
- You want the fastest gaming processors, like the Ryzen 7 9800X3D. These are AM5-only.
What about Intel?
Intel's 12th, 13th and 14th gen processors are unusual because they work with either DDR4 or DDR5. The motherboard decides which. That makes them a flexible choice right now: you can buy a DDR4 board today to save money. Just remember you can't switch that board to DDR5 later.
Intel's newer Core Ultra processors are DDR5-only.
How much memory do you need?
- 16GB is enough for most games today, and it's the budget choice in 2026.
- 32GB is the sweet spot for gaming plus streaming or multitasking, and for newer games that use more memory.
- 64GB is for video editing, 3D work and heavy multitasking.
Always buy a kit of two matching sticks (for example 2x16GB) so the memory runs in dual-channel mode, which is noticeably faster than a single stick.
Summary
In the DDR4 vs DDR5 debate, DDR5 is the faster, future-proof choice, but in 2026 it costs a lot more. For budget and mid-range gaming PCs, DDR4 often gives you better performance for your money, because the saving buys a better graphics card. For high-end builds, upgrade paths and heavy work, DDR5 and AM5 are worth the extra.
Not sure which is right for you? Tell us your budget and what you do and we'll recommend the best-value build with today's prices.
