Difference between Volatile Memory and Non-Volatile Memory

In this article, we will discuss the difference between volatile memory and non-volatile memory along with their separate discussion.

Both volatile and non-volatile are the types of memory. Sometimes, students get confused about both terms. It is a common question that arises in computer fundamental examinations. So, it is important to know the difference between both. So, without any delay, let's start the topic.

Volatile Memory

It is a type of computer memory that only keeps the stored data till the system is powered. It requires a continuous electric current to maintain its saved data. It is also referred to as temporary memory. When there is no electric power in the system, the data automatically erases from the computers.

In desktop and laptop computers, 'Random Access Memory (RAM)' is a volatile memory. The read and write operations on RAM are faster than the hard disk and solid-state drive. That's why computers, tablets, mobiles, and other electronic systems use RAM for high-speed data access.

When we are working on a document in our computer systems, the document is kept in RAM. When the computer is turned off, the random access memory automatically loses its documents.

To keep documents from getting erased, we should save them in non-volatile memory like hard disks, removable disks, and optical disks. Some common examples of volatile memory are RAM and Cache memory.

Two types of volatile memory are Static RAM and Dynamic RAM.

Static RAM is a simple random access memory. It uses flip-flops for storing each data bit. This RAM also loses its data when the electric power is disconnected from the system. Dynamic RAM loses its data in a very short time, even when the system's power is on. This memory is used as the main memory because it is small and less expensive.

Non-Volatile Memory

Non-volatile memory does not require continuous power to keep the data or program files located on the computer to become an effective power saver. In this memory, data is kept within the memory, even when the power is gone. It is also referred to as the permanent memory. The common examples of Non-volatile memory are ROM (Random Access Memory) and HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

Information required to be stored for a long time is stored in the non-volatile memory. In comparison to volatile memory, the performance of this memory is slower. It can store any kind of data permanently.

Volatile Memory v/s Non-Volatile Memory

Now, let's see the comparison between volatile memory and non-volatile memory. We are comparing both terms based on some characteristics.

S.no.	On the basis of	Volatile Memory	Non-Volatile Memory
1.	Basic	It is a type of computer memory that stores the data temporarily. It requires a continuous electric current to maintain its saved data.	It is also a type of computer memory that stores the data permanently. It retains the data in the system even when the power is gone.
2.	Persistence	The data in volatile memory is not permanent.	The data in volatile memory is permanent.
3.	Speed	It is faster than non-volatile memory.	It is slower than volatile memory.
4.	Storage	It has less storage capacity.	It has high storage capacity.
5.	Data transfer	Data transfer in volatile memory is easier.	Data transfer in non-volatile memory is difficult.
6.	Impact	Volatile memory has a high impact on the performance of the system.	Non-Volatile memory has no impact on the performance of the system.
7.	Read and write	In volatile memory, both read and write operations can be performed.	In non-volatile memory, only a read operation can be performed.
8.	Cost	Volatile memory is expensive per unit size.	It is less expensive.
9.	Position of memory	The chips of volatile memory are kept in the memory slot.	While chips of the non-volatile memory are embedded on the motherboard.
10.	CPU Access	In volatile memory, the processor has direct access to data.	In non-volatile memory, the processor does not have direct access to data.
11.	Example	Some common examples of volatile memory are RAM and Cache memory.	The common examples of Non-volatile memory are ROM (Random Access Memory) and HDD (Hard Disk Drive).