Cache type
Introduction
All cache memory is faster than RAM, but there are different levels of cache. The level relates to the distance from the CPU. Level 1 is the closest to the CPU. Then comes Level 2. Both these Levels are part of the CPU design. Level 3 is external to the CPU. This type of cache is held on 'sticks' - printed circuit boards - which slot into the motherboard.
Level 1 cache (L1)
Level 1 cache is also known as primary or internal cache. It is built into the CPU itself and is very fast, relatively expensive and there isn't much of it, usually up to about 256 KB.
Level 2 cache (L2)
Level 2 cache is slower and cheaper than Level 1 cache but you can have a lot more of it than Level 1 cache. Amounts of Level 2 cache up to 16 MB is not uncommon.
Level 3 cache (L3)
Level 3 cache is not part of the CPU but sits on its own in sticks on the motherboard. It is slower than the other types of cache but cheaper and you can usually install much more of it than Level 1 or Level 2 cache, depending on the motherboard design.