Both RAM and ROM are the two major classifications of memory. The crucial difference between RAM and ROM is that RAM is a volatile memory thus stores data only till the time the power is switched on. While ROM is a non-volatile memory that retains data even when the power gets off.
Classification of Memory
Another major difference between the two is that RAM allows both read and write data operation. As against ROM allows read operation only.
What is RAM:
Random Access Memory (RAM) is used to store the programs and data being used by the CPU in real-time. The data on the random access memory can be read, written, and erased any number of times. RAM is a hardware element where the data being currently used is stored. It is a volatile memory.
Types of RAM:
Static RAM, or (SRAM) which stores a bit of data using the state of a six transistor memory cell.
Dynamic RAM, or (DRAM) which stores a bit data using a pair of transistor and capacitor which constitute a DRAM memory cell.
What is ROM:
Read Only Memory (ROM) is a type of memory where the data has been prerecorded. Data stored in ROM is retained even after the computer is turned off ie, non-volatile.
Types of ROM:
Programmable ROM, where the data is written after the memory chip has been created. It is non-volatile.
Erasable Programmable ROM, where the data on this non-volatile memory chip can be erased by exposing it to high-intensity UV light.
Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM, where the data on this non-volatile memory chip can be electrically erased using field electron emission.
Mask ROM, in which the data is written during the manufacturing of the memory chip.
Difference Between RAM and ROM
The following table shows the difference between RAM and ROM on the basis of accessing data, physical size, speed etc.
Key Differences Between RAM and ROM
