This tutorial clearly answers your query – Is 8GB RAM Enough for Your PC? You will also understand the different useful methods to increase RAM:
RAM (Random Access Memory) is part of a computing device that stores the operating system (OS), application programs, and data currently in use so that the central processing unit of the device can access them quickly.
A computer’s main memory is RAM. Compared to other forms of storage like an optical drive, hard disc drive, or solid-state drive, it is much faster to read from and write to. RAM allows you to quickly resume where you left off while keeping track of all background-running applications.
Your PC won’t react quickly if you don’t have enough RAM, especially if you have several tabs open at once.
Table of Contents:
Why Do You Need More RAM
It’s important to buy the right amount of RAM for your computer based on its specifications and the applications you intend to run because adding more RAM won’t always make it run faster. For instance, the best Chromebook version of ChromeOS uses much less RAM than Windows 10, which alone consumes about 2GB-8GB or more.
In this article, we will talk about questions like is 8GB RAM enough? Here in this guide, we’ll explain how much RAM you need in a laptop, desktop, and gaming machine, is 8GB memory good, or is 8GB of RAM good?
The absolute minimum RAM you require in order to perform common computing tasks like web browsing, streaming videos, etc. is 8GB. This RAM should allow toggling between open tabs without significantly hurting performance.
You could even get away with performing some light photo or video editing with 8GB of RAM, although loading times would probably be slow.
It can be risky to game on a system with only 8GB of RAM. Yes, a lot of, games, even more, recent ones, work just fine with 8GB of memory. But 8GB simply isn’t enough if you want to play an intense game like The Division 2, which needs 11.3GB of RAM.
If your PC only has 8GB of RAM, you’re better off streaming games from services like GeForce Now or Xbox Game Pass.
Is 8GB Ram Enough
For casual computer users, 8GB of RAM is the recommended amount of memory. This amount of memory ought to be adequate if your usage involves multitasking, internet browsing, email, numerous office programs, flash games, and other similar activities.
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How Much RAM is Needed
For Gaming
Even the most advanced builds running on 16GB are suitable for serious gamers because the typical gamer only uses about four gigs while playing. So even if you’re running several programs or applications in the background, 8GB is more than enough for gaming. Depending on the type of game you’re playing, different amounts of RAM may be required.
For FPS games like CS: GO, Battlefield, or Overwatch, 8GB is sufficient. The same is true of MOBA games, which use even less memory than other kinds of games. Examples include League of Legends and Dota 2. Purchase a computer with 16GB of RAM, however, if you intend to play graphically taxing MMORPGs like World of Warcraft.
| Game | CPU Usage | FPS |
|---|---|---|
| CS:GO | 2GB | 73 FPS |
| Apex Legends | 6GB | 108FPS |
| Fortnite | 4GB | 84FPS |
| World of Warcraft | 6GB | 103FPS |
| God of War | 8GB | 87FPS |
| NFS Heat | 6GB | 80FPS |
Suggested Reading =>> Top RAM for Gaming
For Video Editing
If you’re editing projects that aren’t 1080p, 8GB might be sufficient, but you’ll probably need to close some other programs to make room for it. With only 8GB, 4K editing will be all, but impossible, and watching video files in preview mode will take a lot of patience.
If you want an effective video editing experience, 8GB of RAM should not be considered as it will only enable basic productivity.
For Graphic Design
If you do not have a budget for it, you should have 16 GB of RAM on your graphic design laptop because it needs at least 8 GB of RAM to run Photoshop and Illustrator. A 32GB RAM system will also help you if you want to plan for the next two to four years.
For those who use their desktops for demanding tasks like video editing or graphic design, 8GB RAM is a great choice. 4GB RAM offers the best performance for most users, though those who don’t require as much power may be able to manage with it.
If you frequently use applications that are resource-intensive, like video editing or gaming, 8GB RAM can also be helpful. The majority of users who want a balance between speed and capacity will find that 8GB RAM is a great option.
Strategies for RAM Configuration
#1) For New Desktop or Laptop
As you decide how much RAM to buy for a new laptop or desktop, find out whether the model or models you’re considering allow user upgrades. Laptops can use SODIMMs, which are similar to desktop RAM in that they can be inserted and removed, or they can use soldered memory, which is fixed to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded.
If the memory is soldered onto a desktop or laptop, select a quantity that you believe will last the lifespan of the device.
For instance, if you plan to perform more RAM-demanding tasks in the future, invest in 16GB right away. It will be less expensive than replacing your laptop earlier than you intended.
If a laptop’s memory can be upgraded by the user, you can take precautions by selecting the smallest amount of RAM required for your current workload and delaying adding more. For instance, you can initially purchase a budget laptop with 4GB RAM and later upgrade to 8GB, saving you some money upfront.
One thing to keep in mind if you’re a gamer is if your laptop only has integrated graphics (like AMD Radeon Graphics, Intel UHD, or Iris Xe graphics), you might want to increase the system memory.
As you play games, integrated graphics use RAM to store the image data, which reduces the amount of RAM available to other applications like web browsers or screenshot software.
#2) For Old Desktops/Laptops
Find out how much RAM is already in your system if you have an older desktop or laptop that can accept RAM upgrades. Consider a different upgrade in its place if the amount matches your use case (as stated above). For instance, if your system currently uses a hard drive rather than an SSD, you should replace it before adding more RAM.
Verify what SODIMMs are already installed before adding more RAM if you believe it would be beneficial. Is that just one stick? To increase capacity and switch to a faster dual-channel configuration, you can purchase a second one with identical specifications and install it.
If both slots are already filled, you ought to purchase a set with a greater capacity to replace both sticks. To make this process and installation simple, refer to our guide on RAM upgrades.
How Can RAM be Upgraded
Depending on the specific device, type, and quantity of memory you want to install, the RAM upgrade procedure may vary. You can take the following actions to increase the RAM in your device:
Method #1: Examine Your Device to See if You Can Upgrade the RAM
Identifying whether you have access to and the ability to modify the RAM in your device is the first step in upgrading it. Because the RAM is soldered into many devices, including phones, tablets, and some laptops, you can access or modify the RAM.
In this case, buying a new device will allow you to increase your RAM. You can probably upgrade your home computer yourself if you have one that allows you to open the case and access the RAM.
Method #2: Verify the Motherboard RAM limits and Operating System
Your operating system and motherboard are the two components of your device that affect how much RAM you can install. You can count the number of RAM slots on the motherboard to inspect it. You can look up the maximum amount of RAM that your operating system supports online and check your operating system.
Method #3: Select the amount of RAM You Want to Use in the Gadget
The amount of RAM you want to install on your device should be decided. You can think about what you want to do with the computer, how much the memory will cost, and what the computer can handle.
Most people only need 8 GB or 16 GB of memory to support efficient performance, but if you want a device that performs better, think about upgrading to 32 GB.
Method #4: To Enhance Performance, Increase the RAM in Your Device
You can buy the memory and upgrade your computer after evaluating it and deciding how much RAM you want to install. For more information on the precise actions to take, consult the PC’s owner’s manual.
The majority of computers require you to turn them off, let them cool, unplug all of their cables, and then remove the outdated RAM sticks. The new memory can then be installed in the same location. Watching videos that demonstrate where to find and how to replace memory on each distinct model of laptop can be useful.
Price of 8GB RAM
It’s crucial to compare costs across different stores when purchasing 8GB of RAM. It usually costs $60 to $100, though you can find it for less if it’s on sale. To make sure the RAM is compatible with your computer, it’s also crucial to review its specifications.
It’s crucial to confirm that the module you’re considering is compatible with your system before making a purchase because some modules are created for specific kinds of computers. With a little bit of research, you ought to be able to locate RAM that satisfies your requirements at a cost within your price range.
The brand and store where it is purchased can affect this price. Certain brands, like Corsair, place a higher premium on their RAM. Additionally, some retailers like Amazon offer 8GB of RAM for a significant discount.
However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that 8GB of RAM is the bare minimum advised for gaming computers. 16GB of RAM or more is recommended for those building a gaming computer.
Mentioned below is a table if you need quick suggestions:
| Operating System/Task | Recommended RAM |
|---|---|
| Windows 10 | 8GB |
| Windows 11 | 16GB |
| Graphic Design | 16GB |
| CAD | 16GB or more |
| Gaming | 8GB or more |
| Video Editing | 8GB or more |
| Streaming | 16GB |
| AR/VR | 16GB |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q #1) Why is RAM crucial?
Answer: RAM is significant because it has a big impact on how well your computer runs. Your programs and games might lag or stop working altogether if you don’t have enough RAM. Information is transferred and stored by RAM in conjunction with the hard drive and other computer hardware.
The ability to edit videos, for example, requires a lot of processing power and storage, so having more RAM can be helpful.
Q #2) What types of RAM are there?
Answer: There are basically two types of RAM:
DRAM: A capacitor and transistor are used in an integrated circuit as part of the common RAM type known as DRAM. The system stores the data bit in the capacitor in this type of RAM. Because capacitors frequently lose power and transistors leak, the system periodically updates the DRAM.
To ensure that the RAM keeps the data, the system refreshed DRAM every few milliseconds.
SRAM: SRAM uses four to six transistors to store information, which makes it different from DRAM. When the system supplies power, SRAM is able to maintain the data in the transistors. SRAM performs better and speeds up computers because it doesn’t need to be refreshed as frequently as DRAM.
SRAM may also be more expensive, which reduces its use in widely used computers and gadgets.
Q #3) Where can I find RAM on my computer?
Answer: RAM is installed in DIMM slots that are installed side by side on the motherboard of the computer, right next to the CPU socket. Although most users only require four slots, motherboards can have up to 16 DIMM slots.
Q #4) Where should I put my RAM chips?
Answer: The manual for your motherboard should be consulted first as it specifies the location! If your motherboard has four slots and you only have 2 RAM sticks (also known as DIMMS), you should typically use the second and fourth slots (A2 and B2).
Put the other two modules in the first and third slots if you have four slots and four DIMMs (A1 and B1).
Q #5) Is RAM capable of causing stuttering?
Answer: The answer is yes, RAM memory can cause stuttering, particularly if your RAM is running at a slower speed or if you have less RAM than is advised for particular applications or games. Running demanding processes, such as PC games, will make this more obvious.
Q #6) How much RAM is allowed for my computer?
Answer: The motherboard that is installed in the computer a have an impact on how much RAM a computer can have overall. Although the majority of motherboards can support two or four memory modules, the kind and quantity of memory can vary significantly from one motherboard to the next.
Q #7) Is 8GB RAM Enough for Windows 11?
Answer: Yes 8GB RAM is enough to run basic software and games in Windows 11.
Q #8) Is 8GB RAM enough for everyday use?
Answer: The regular 8 GB will work nicely because it can accommodate the majority of your basic computing requirements. You won’t notice much of a performance hit even if you have a few tabs open in your browser.
Q #9) Is 8GB RAM enough for programming?
Answer: 4GB of RAM in a laptop should be adequate. However, programmers who need to run virtual machines, emulators, and integrated development environments (IDEs) in order to assemble large projects will require additional RAM. The optimal laptop should have at least 8GB of RAM.
Q #10) How much RAM is enough for Tablets?
Answer: 8GB Ram is ideal for Tablets.
Q #11) How much RAM is enough for Laptops?
Answer: For Laptops, 8GB RAM is adequate to run basic software.
Q #12) How much RAM is enough for desktops?
Answer: For casual internet users and email users, we advise 4GB; for intermediate users of games, at least 8GB; and for gamers, at least 32GB. Your computer will lag if it has insufficient RAM.
Also Read =>> Comparison of Top 32GB RAM Laptops
Conclusion
RAM is an essential component of every computer, and as technology develops, so is the demand for more RAM.
Now the question arises 8GB RAM enough? Or is 8GB RAM enough for Laptop? Or how much memory do I need in my laptop? Or is 8GB RAM enough for coding? Although 8GB of RAM is currently the norm for the majority of PCs and laptops, it’s important to keep in mind that this could change in the future.
8GB is adequate and supports multitasking if you only perform basic tasks like editing documents. 8GB RAM enables you to run more than 30 tabs at once if you use a browser. If you edit photos, 8GB RAM enables you to work on more than ten photos at once. With regard to gaming, 8GB RAM is sufficient for all but the games that require a strong graphics card.
In other words, 8GB RAM is sufficient for users who stick to basic productivity or who don’t play contemporary games. However, you risk going over your allotted memory if you intend to run something memory-intensive and perform another task concurrently.