What is ROM and RAM?

There is one major difference between a read-only memory (ROM) and a random-access memory (RAM) chip: ROM can hold data without power and RAM cannot. Essentially, ROM is meant for permanent storage, and RAM is for temporary storage.

ABOUT ROM

A good example of ROM is the computer BIOS, which is a PROM chip that stores the programming needed to begin the initial computer startup process. Using a non-volatile storage medium is the only way to begin this process for computers and other devices. ROM chips were also used in gaming system cartridges, like the original Nintendo, Gameboy, Sega Genesis, and others.

ABOUT RAM

RAM chips are used in computers, as well as other devices, to store temporary information produced by programs quickly. RAM is one of the fastest types of memory, allowing it to switch quickly between tasks. For example, the Internet browser you are using to read this page is loaded into RAM and is running from it.

A ROM chip stores several MB (megabytes) of data, usually 4 to 8 MB per chip, whereas a RAM chip can store multiple GB (gigabytes) of data, ranging from 1 to 256 GB per chip.

A ROM chip is used primarily in the startup process of a computer, whereas a RAM chip is used in the normal operations after the operating system is loaded. For example, a ROM chip is often used to store the BIOS program on the computer motherboard. A RAM chip temporarily stores files in use on a computer, like a document you're writing, an image you're editing, or data for a game you're playing.