Task Manager tells you nearly everything
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc and open Performance.
- Click Memory.
- Top-right shows total capacity. Below it: Speed, Slots used and Form factor (DIMM for desktop, SODIMM for laptop).
Slots used is the important one. "2 of 4" means a matched pair, and a matched pair is worth more than two loose sticks.
Working out the generation
Windows does not always label DDR generation directly, but the speed gives it away. DDR3 runs roughly 1066–2133 MT/s, DDR4 roughly 2133–3600, and DDR5 starts around 4800 and climbs from there.
If Task Manager reports 3200 MT/s you have DDR4; if it reports 6000 you have DDR5.
Reading the label on the stick
Every module has a sticker with the part number, capacity and speed. That part number identifies the exact kit, which matters because kits sell for more than singles.
Bring the whole set even if one stick has failed. We test each one, price the working ones and tell you which failed — you are not penalised for being straight with us.
Common questions
Is it worth selling just one stick?
Yes, though less than a pair. Single sticks sell to people topping up an existing machine, so capacity and speed matter more than brand.
Do you buy laptop memory?
Yes — SO-DIMM DDR5, DDR4 and DDR3. It is easy to pull and easy to forget about, and worth similar money to desktop memory.