Is there a difference between Server RAM and Desktop RAM?

[bistwo]

I have found that to buy 16GB of DDR3 desktop ram, it is upwards of $140, however 16GB of DDR3 server ram ranges around $80. Is it just branding, or will there be compatibilty issues. MY motherboard is ASUS M5A97LE R2.0 with AMD FX-8350.

 

[Emerald]

desktop RAM is usually un-buffered non-ECC

most server RAM is ECC which is not supported by most desktop motherboards

 

[k1114]

Ecc costs more though, I see it at $150, where is it for $80?