Distinct Features: DDR1 vs DDR2 vs DDR3 vs Fully Buffered Memory

Confused about the differences in DDR1, DDR2, DDR3 & Fully Buffered Memory Modules? Don’t be. Below are some of the distinguishing specs that will help you in buying your next lot of RAM memory modules for computers. You can also read more about buying new RAM Memory modules through these RAM memory recommendations.
What are NON-ECC Memory Modules?
ECC stands for Error Correcting Code. It is a form of a register (chip) that corrects every single bit error in memory modules. ECC memory modules are used in Server computers that need heavy processing. They are not required for desktop and laptop systems. Therefore, NON-ECC modules have one less chip (n-1) where n is the total number.

As you can see ECC module has one additional RAM chip.
For example, Gaming Memory Modules do not usually require error correction and buffering unless they are used in dedicated gaming servers. They, however, require fast paced performance for enhanced game play.
What are ECC Memory Modules?
Error Correcting Code (ECC) Memory modules are used for Server Farms that process a large quantity of data. What makes ECC memory different from Non-ECC memory is the error correcting feature that increases stability and maximizes performance.
What are Registered Memory Modules?
Registered or Buffered memory modules have a register in the middle that allows stable performance – by placing less load on the memory controllers. These memory modules work in unison with the ECC chips of the memory and control electrical load and single bit memory errors, which can affect the performance of the computer system.
Here is a video about that.
DDR1 NON-ECC | DDR1 ECC | DDR1 REG ECC | DDR1 Frequency |
Chips: 8. | Chips: 9 | Chips: 9+ | SDRAM PC2100 |
Pins: 184 | Pins: 184 | Pins: 184 | PC2700 |
PC3200 | |||
DDR2 NON-ECC | DDR2 ECC | DDR2 REG ECC | DDR2 Frequency |
Chips: 8 | Chips: 9 | Chips: 9+ | PC3200 |
Pins: 240 | Pins: 240 | Pins: 240 | PC4200 |
PC5300 | |||
PC6400 | |||
PC8500 | |||
DDR3 NON-ECC | DDR3 ECC | DDR3 REG ECC | DDR3 Frequency |
Chips: 8 | Chips: 9 | Chips: 9+ | PC10600 |
Pins: 240 | Pins: 240 | Pins: 240 | PC12800 |
PC14400 | |||
PC16000 | |||
PC8500 | |||
Fully Buffered DDR Memory Module
Heat sink |
Chips: 9+ |
Pins: 240 |