What Is the Difference Between Desktop & Notebook Memory?

Desktops and laptops both take different types of memory.

Desktops and laptops are two types of computers used in both homes and businesses. Laptops generally have similar components to desktop units, just on a smaller scale. The memory used for laptops is no exception.

Terminology

Webopedia.com states that Dual-Inline Memory Modules (DIMMs) are the most common type of Random Access Memory (RAM) found in desktops. Types of DIMM include Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM), Double Data Rate SDRAM (DDR), DDR2 and DDR3 memory, with each being an improvement over the previous. Where desktop memory is referred to as DIMMs, laptop memory is called Small Outline Dual-Inline Memory Modules (SO DIMMs). SO DIMM also has the same types, such as SDRAM and DDR.

Physical Size

The most obvious difference between desktop and laptop memory is the physical size. Desktop DIMMs are typically four and a half to five inches in length while the smaller SO DIMMs are usually two and a half to three inches long.

Pins and Notches

RAM pin configuration has a lot to do with the specific type of RAM a module is. DIMMs typically have 100, 168, 184 or 240 pins, while SO DIMMs typically have 72, 100, 144 or 200 pins. Also, RAM modules have notches on either side where they snap into a computer's memory bay and lock. The notches on SO DIMM modules are smaller to fit the locking mechanisms in laptops instead of desktops.

References

• Webopedia: The Difference Between Notebook and Desktop Memory
• Bleeping Computer: Understanding, Identifying and Upgrading the RAM in Your PC