Getting to Know RAM
RAM (Random Access Memory), is the bank that your computer uses to store all your open applications. When opening a program, your system loads files from your hard drive into RAM. Not having enough can lead to applications running slow or being “laggy”. It’s frustrating being low on RAM for huge applications such as games.
4GB: Not Enough Memory
How much RAM do you need for your gaming computer? Not long ago, 4GB of memory worked great for most daily tasks and gaming. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case. Having too little memory on a gaming computer, like 4GB, can cause your games to run poorly. For example, you need at least 8GB of RAM for Forza Horizon 4. For most games played today, you need this amount. Sometimes a game states 4-6GB as a minimum. I recommend using 8GB, to ensure smooth play due to background programs running. With that said, it is easy to come by 8GB of RAM. Many of the pre-built computers ship with 8GB or more. Furthermore, building your own system, kits for 8GB are affordable.
16GB: The RAM Sweet Spot
Is 16GB of memory useful on your gaming computer? What about 32GB? Or, would it be a waste of money? A robust gaming system should have 16GB installed for it to be at a sweet spot. This amount should be plenty to multitask and run today’s games smoothly. For example, If you enjoy live streaming, 16GB should be enough for this and more! Gaming while listening to music and streaming content becomes effortless. Having more memory makes multitasking easier.
What About 32GB for Gaming Computers?
But, what about going even higher with the amount of RAM? Is it too much to install 32GB? To sum it up, the answer would be yes. Why would the average gamer need 32GB? They wouldn’t! Your average gamer will find 16GB to be more than enough to meet their needs. Unless you never plan to close any windows ever, 32GB can be put off for future system upgrades.
How Much RAM is Enough for Gaming?
When it comes to gaming specs only, 16GB of memory is enough. Many games are able to run fine with 8GB. In tests performed by TechSpot, framerates showed no difference in gaming performance. Both 8GB and 16GB tests with games running as well as 65 open tabs in Google Chrome. In short, more RAM makes your gaming more enjoyable. 32GB is not advised against. However, this much memory doesn’t improve your framerate. Upgrading your graphics card makes more of a difference than upgrading from 8GB to 32GB.
Consider Your Needs
Of course, one answer does not fit everyone. Choose the amount of memory you need based on the games and programs you have. Unless you are running many virtual machines at the same time as gaming with graphical settings high, going past 16GB is unnecessary. Happy Gaming!
For future reference, make sure to know what to expect when it comes to recognizing the signs of failing RAM in your system.