Understanding the Essence of ROM: Tips for Choosing Phone ROM

ROM and RAM are two interconnected concepts related to memory and storage functions on phones. So, what is ROM, is it internal or external, and how to choose a phone with suitable ROM? Let's decode these questions with Mytour right now.

What is ROM? Internal or External?

ROM stands for Read-Only Memory, which is the internal memory of mobile phones. ROM serves to store data on phones such as apps, downloads, images, text, videos, music, etc., in the long term. In other words, data on ROM only disappears when intentionally deleted.

If the ROM is too small, the capacity fills up quickly. When full, you can't install more apps or download and store photos, videos. To free up space, you have to delete old data to make room.

So, what is ROM is a concern for many when buying a phone.

What is ROM in a phone?

When it comes to ROM, people often think of the total internal memory capacity. Available memory is the remaining capacity capable of storing data. In other words, available memory is the total capacity minus the used capacity.

For example, if your phone displays Used: 48GB/64GB, it means:

• Your phone's ROM is 64GB.
• Used capacity is 48GB.
• Available memory is (64GB - 48GB) = 16GB.

In reality, most phones do not have available memory equal to the total capacity. In other words, if a phone has 64GB ROM, the maximum available memory is usually around 50GB. The remaining 14GB on ROM is used to store system software and the operating system. When approaching the full 50GB available, your phone will automatically alert 'internal storage full.'

The Difference Between ROM and RAM in Phones

As introduced, when it comes to phone memory, there are two concepts: ROM and RAM. So, what sets these two concepts apart?

As explained earlier, ROM is the internal and long-term memory of the phone. Meanwhile, RAM (short for Random Access Memory) is temporary memory used to store immediate tasks and data. When tasks end, apps are closed, or the device is reset, data in RAM disappears. However, data on ROM only disappears when you intentionally delete them.

Both RAM and ROM are crucial for the phone's storage function. Insufficient ROM limits long-term data storage, while inadequate RAM causes delays in device operations, leading to discomfort when running tasks on the phone.

How to Check ROM Information on a Phone

ROM specifications or available memory are essential indicators. Regularly check these parameters to monitor your phone's memory status. Follow the steps below to check ROM information on your phone.

Check ROM Information on Android Phones

Step 1: Access the “Settings” menu on your Android phone > “Battery and Device Care” (or “About Phone” > “All Specifications” depending on the phone brand).

Step 2: Check parameters such as used capacity, ROM, and RAM.

Check ROM Information on iOS Devices

Step 1: Navigate to the “Settings” on your iOS device > go to “General” > and select “Storage & iCloud Usage.”

Step 2: In the “iPhone Storage” section, you can view used capacity, ROM, available memory, and the percentage of data types occupying space.

Note: You can also use support apps to check ROM on your phone. Please follow the steps below, applicable to both Android and iOS devices.

Step 1: Download the CPU X app from the Play Store or App Store > Open the app and select “Memory.”

Step 2: In the “Memory” section, the app will display parameters such as RAM type, total RAM, free RAM, Total Internal Memory (ROM), Available Internal Memory (Available Memory), …

Considerations When Choosing ROM for Mobile Phones

After understanding what ROM is and the importance of ROM, Mytour will suggest how to choose suitable ROM. The choice of ROM depends on each person's phone usage needs. However, most smartphones today come with ROM sufficient for common tasks.

When to Choose a 16GB ROM Phone?

Excluding rare 8GB ROM phones, 16GB ROM is the lowest capacity. With a 16GB ROM phone, you can only store a few photos and download a couple of apps. You can't download many games or store multiple videos simultaneously. To save more, you have to delete old data to free up space.

If you're using a 16GB ROM phone, the best approach is to utilize cloud storage services. For instance, you can upload videos and photos to Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox.

When to Choose a 32GB ROM Phone?

Compared to a 16GB ROM, a phone with a 32GB ROM allows for more comfortable usage. With this capacity, you can store photos, videos, and download more software and apps. However, if you have a need for extensive photo or video capture, consider using a memory card. Transferring data to the memory card helps free up ROM space, providing room for essential app downloads.

When to Choose a 64GB ROM Phone?

A 64GB ROM is considered the standard memory for smartphones today. Most phones come with a 64GB capacity, allowing for game downloads, app installations, and ample storage for photos and videos. In fact, you can store data for 1 to 3 years without exhausting the internal memory.

When to Choose a 128GB ROM Phone?

It's fantastic if you own a phone with 128GB ROM or more. This capacity is considered 'excessive' for regular users. However, it's an ideal ROM for those who store numerous photos, videos, or frequently download heavy games.

In summary, in this article, Mytour will help you understand what ROM is in a phone, the importance of ROM, and the difference between ROM and RAM. Additionally, you can find suggestions for choosing a phone with the appropriate ROM. The choice of ROM depends on your usage scenario. If you have any other questions, feel free to leave a comment below.