In this guide, we’ll show you how to create a RAM disk in Windows 10 and Windows 11, and explain why it’s a powerful tool for boosting system performance. A RAM disk is a virtual drive that uses your computer’s RAM (Random Access Memory) instead of a physical hard drive or SSD. It’s incredibly fast, making it ideal for temporary storage, caching, or running demanding applications. We’ll also review the best free and paid tools for creating RAM disks and how to use them effectively.
Windows 11 – from 11.2 €
Windows 10 – from 9.16 €
What is a RAM Disk and Why Should You Use It?
A RAM disk is a virtual drive that stores data in your computer’s RAM instead of on a traditional hard drive or SSD. Since RAM is much faster than even the fastest SSDs, a RAM disk can significantly speed up tasks that require quick data access.
Key Benefits of Using a RAM Disk
– Blazing Fast Speeds: Ideal for applications that need ultra-fast data access.
– Temporary Storage: Perfect for storing temporary files, browser caches, or application data.
– Reduced Wear on SSDs: Extends the lifespan of your SSD by reducing read/write cycles.
Limitations of RAM Disks
– Volatile Storage: Data is lost when the computer is turned off unless saved to a physical drive.
– Limited Size: The size of the RAM disk depends on the amount of available RAM.
Best Tools to Create a RAM Disk in Windows
Here are the top free and paid tools for creating RAM disks in Windows 10 and Windows 11:
1. AMD Radeon RAMDisk
AMD RAMDisk is a popular choice for creating RAM disks. The free version supports disks up to 4GB (or 6GB with AMD memory).
How to Use AMD RAMDisk
1. Open the application and specify the disk size in megabytes.
2. Check the Create TEMP Directory option if you need a folder for temporary files.
3. Click Start RAMDisk to create and mount the disk.
4. The disk will be formatted automatically. Ignore any Windows prompts to format the disk. the TEMP folder will be created.
5. Use the Load/Save tab to save the RAM disk’s contents to your hard drive before shutdown.
2. SoftPerfect RAM Disk
SoftPerfect RAM Disk is a paid tool with a 30-day free trial. It’s one of the few RAM disk utilities available in Russian.
How to Use SoftPerfect RAM Disk
1. Click the Plus icon to create a new RAM disk.
2. Configure the disk size, file system, and save options.
3. Click OK to create the disk.
3. ImDisk
ImDisk is a free, open-source tool for creating RAM disks without any limitations.
How to Use ImDisk
1. Open the application via the Control Panel.
2. Click Mount New to create a new disk.
3. Specify the drive letter and size, then click OK.
4. OSFMount
OSFMount is another free tool that can create RAM disks and mount disk images.
How to Use OSFMount
1. Click Mount New in the main window.
2. Select Empty RAM Drive, specify the size and drive letter, then click OK.
5. StarWind RAM Disk
StarWind RAM Disk is a free tool that allows you to create multiple RAM disks.
How to Use StarWind RAM Disk
1. Open the application and click Add Device.
2. Configure the disk size and parameters.
6. GPU RAM Drive
GPU RAM Drive is a unique tool that uses your GPU’s memory to create a RAM disk.
Creating a RAM disk in Windows 10 or Windows 11 is a great way to boost performance for specific tasks. Whether you’re looking to speed up temporary file storage, reduce SSD wear, or optimize application performance, the tools listed above can help you get started. Remember to save your data before shutting down your computer, as RAM disks are volatile by nature.
