The two types of random-access memory (RAM) used in computers are static RAM (SRAM) and dynamic RAM (DRAM). DRAM stores data in tiny capacitors that gradually lose their charge, so the memory must be refreshed regularly to retain information. Because it is relatively inexpensive and space-efficient, DRAM is used as a computer’s main memory. Though faster than permanent storage options such as SSDs, DRAM functions too slowly for the CPU’s fastest calculations, which instead make use of SRAM. SRAM stores data using circuits that retain information as long as power is supplied and therefore does not require refreshing. This makes SRAM faster than DRAM, but it is also more expensive to produce and takes up more space. For this reason, SRAM is typically used only for the CPU’s cache, where speed is especially important.
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