DDR5 is the current generation of computer memory; DDR4 is the one before it. Both are still everywhere — DDR4 dominated from around 2015 and DDR5 started arriving in 2021 — so most used RAM on the market today is one or the other. They are not interchangeable: a DDR5 stick won't fit a DDR4 slot, and vice-versa.
The quick differences
| DDR4 | DDR5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Launched | ~2015 | ~2021 |
| Typical speeds | 2133–3200 MT/s | 4800–6400+ MT/s |
| Common capacities | 4–32GB (desktop), up to 128GB (server) | 8–48GB (desktop), up to 128GB+ (server) |
| Label code | PC4-… | PC5-… |
| Resale value | Solid, especially server modules | Higher — newer and in demand |
How to tell which you have
Check the module label for DDR4/DDR5 or the PC4/PC5 prefix, or open Task Manager on Windows 11 (Ctrl+Shift+Esc → Performance → Memory). Full walkthrough on our how to identify your RAM page.
What actually drives the price
Generation is the headline, but a few things move the value of used RAM:
- Generation — DDR5 generally outvalues DDR4, and DDR4 outvalues DDR3.
- Capacity per stick — a single 64GB module is worth far more than four 16GB ones, even at the same total.
- Server vs desktop — registered/ECC server memory (RDIMM/LRDIMM) usually commands the best prices.
- Condition & working order — we buy working, tested modules, so functional sticks in good condition are worth the most.
- Market demand — memory prices move with the wider market; high-capacity DDR4 and DDR5 have been especially sought-after recently.
Both generations are worth selling rather than binning — even older DDR4 desktop sticks have resale value when they work. The best way to know is to run them through the offer calculator.
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