ECC is error checking, there is an extra chip on the ram that does this and it's only really useful for server machines. Also ECC runs slower. Non-ECC has better performance and is used in most desktop PCs. There is a lot more to it, but this should give you the answer you need. For more info just type ECC vs. Non-ECC into any search.
ECC cost more but is more reliable than non-ECC memory. TRUE
Non-ECC DDR3 cannot substitute for ECC DDR3 in systems that require ECC memory. ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory includes additional circuitry to detect and correct data corruption, which non-ECC memory lacks. If a motherboard or processor supports ECC, it will only operate properly with ECC modules installed. However, some motherboards may accept non-ECC DDR3, but they will not provide the error-correcting features.
ECC modules can be used in a non-ECC system (though the cost makes it a poor strategy). Buffered modules cannot be used in a system that does not support buffered modules.
ECC stands for Error Checking and Correction. This type of memory module is used to correct memory errors within the computer registry. ECC memory modules generally have 9 chips compared to 8 chips in a non-ECC memory module. This is the easiest way to differentiate the two.
There are two types of memories when it comes to supporting ECC (error correction code/circuitry). These are ECC memory (memories which support ECC) and non-ECC (which do not support ECC). ECC helps detect and correct certain types of errors in memory transactions if they occur. ECC memories are a bit slow in performance as there is some time lost in detecting and correcting errors if they occur. Non-ECC memories are more common, faster and cheaper. ECC memories are recommended for servers and other mission critical applications. Most of system designs and circuits are robust and there are rarely any errors on a PC memory bus, so non-ECC memories are good enough for general computing applications. Most computer motherboards support both type of memories but still if one should check motherboard and BIOS specifications before investing in ECC memory type. - Neeraj Sharma
It is more reliable.
it's more reliable and is generally used on servers.
ECC (Error-Correcting Code) DRAM provides the ability to detect and correct single-bit errors, enhancing data integrity and reliability, particularly in critical computing environments. Non-ECC DRAM lacks this error correction capability, making it more susceptible to data corruption from random hardware faults. As a result, ECC DRAM is often used in servers and workstations where data accuracy is paramount, while non-ECC DRAM is typically found in consumer-grade systems.
Depending on the specs of the motherboard, a motherboard that supports ECC SDRAM may support a non-ECC SDRAM module. If a motherboard can support both types, you would have the option to enable or disable the ECC feature in BIOS. Other than the fact that an ECC module has an odd number of chips, there is no other physical difference on the module. They are keyed the same.
It is more reliable and is generally used on servers.
8 MB to 2 GB of RAM depending on factors such as non-ECC and ECC technology.