DRAM stands for "dynamic random-access memory" and is a type of semiconductor memory that is typically used for the data or program code needed by a computer processor to function. DRAM is a common type of random-access memory (RAM) that is used in personal computers (PCs), workstations, servers, smartphones, tablets, and many other types of computing devices. It is a volatile memory that stores bits of data in transistors, and it is located closer to the processor than storage media such as hard disk drives and solid-state drives, enabling faster access to data.

DRAM typically takes the form of an integrated circuit chip, which can consist of dozens to billions of DRAM memory cells. DRAM chips are widely used in digital electronics where low-cost and high-capacity computer memory is required. One of the largest applications for DRAM is the main memory (colloquially called the "RAM") in modern computers and graphics cards (where the "main memory" is called the graphics memory) .

There are many types of DRAM that can be used in a device, including Reduced Latency DRAM (RLDRAM), Graphics RAM, Video DRAM (VRAM), and Multibank DRAM (MDRAM) . DRAM is not without its disadvantages, including its volatility, high power consumption relative to other options, complex manufacturing, and slower speed compared to SRAM. However, DRAM is essential because it allows a computer to run efficiently by providing quick access to essential data that the processor needs to operate at peak performance.