Difference between Volatile Memory and Non-Volatile Memory
Volatile and Non-Volatile Memory are both types of computer memory. Volatile Memory is used to store computer programs and data that CPU needs in real time and is erased once computer is switched off. RAM and Cache memory are volatile memory. Where as Non-volatile memory is static and remains in the computer even if computer is switched off. ROM and HDD are non-volatile memory.
Following are the important differences between Volatile and Non-Volatile Memory.
| Sr. No. | Key | Volatile Memory | Non-Volatile Memory |
|---|
| 1 | Data Retention | Data is present till power supply is present. | Data remains even after power supply is not present. |
| 2 | Persistence | Volatile memory data is not permanent. | Non-volatile memory data is permanent. |
| 3 | Speed | Volatile memory is faster than non-volatile memory. | Non-volatile memory access is slower. |
| 4 | Example | RAM is an example of Volatile Memory. | ROM is an example of Non-Volatile Memory. |
| 5 | Data Transfer | Data Transfer is easy in Volatile Memory. | Data Transfer is difficult in Non-Volatile Memory. |
| 6 | CPU Access | CPU can access data stored on Volatile memory. | Data to be copied from Non-Volatile memory to Volatile memory so that CPU can access its data. |
| 7 | Storage | Volatile memory less storage capacity. | Non-Volatile memory like HDD has very high storage capacity. |
| 8 | Impact | Volatile memory such as RAM is high impact on system's performance. | Non-volatile memory has no impact on system's performance. |
| 9 | Cost | Volatile memory is costly per unit size. | Non-volatile memory is cheap per unit size. |
Published on 26-Nov-2019 12:23:08
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