RAM is like your computer’s short-term memory. It stores data your operating system is actively working on, and offers lightning-fast access to it. But it gets wiped when you turn off your device, unlike storage drives which maintain their content until you remove them.
For demanding computer users, this makes having enough RAM important. It keeps your favourite apps, websites and games working quickly.
What is RAM?
RAM is used for immediate data storage and retrieval. It offers lightning-fast access compared to long-term storage (like hard disk drives or SSDs), so it’s ideal for the apps, files, and programs you’re actively using.
When you close an application, the computer operating system moves the data from RAM back to long-term storage. This frees up space in the short-term memory for your next program.
The faster your RAM is, the more smoothly your PC will run. RAM comes in different capacities and speeds, and determining what you need depends on how you use your computer. Generally, 4GB of RAM is enough for basic computing tasks like web browsing and office applications, and 8GB is ideal for light multitasking or moderate gaming. More demanding users may need 32GB or more of high-speed RAM to unlock the full potential of their applications and games.
How much RAM do I need?
The amount of RAM you need will vary depending on your computing habits. For basic use, 4GB to 8GB should be fine for everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and light multitasking. For gaming, 16GB will ensure you can play most modern games without lag or performance drops.
RAM is used to quickly access the files your computer needs, allowing programs to run faster than they would on a standard hard drive. Without sufficient RAM, your CPU would have to constantly access the same files again and again, which slows down everything.
To determine how much RAM you need, evaluate your current usage patterns and future-proofing needs. For example, if you want to be able to edit videos or photos in high resolutions, you may need 32GB of RAM or higher. This is because these programs require large files that are stored in RAM rather than on the hard drive. Other factors to consider include budget and system compatibility.
What’s the difference between RAM and storage?
Unlike a hard disc drive or SSD, which store data indefinitely, RAM resets each time your computer shuts off. This is because it’s volatile, meaning its content disappears each time the power is turned off.
Think of RAM like your own short term memory. It holds the immediate data you need for quick access – like the apps you’re using or files you’re working on. It’s faster to retrieve that information from RAM than it is from a hard disk – which is why the more of it you have, the more you can do simultaneously without your system slowing down.
RAM is typically sold in sticks that snap into specific slots on the motherboard and must be compatible with your system to work properly. It’s also worth bearing in mind that more RAM doesn’t always mean a performance boost if the system isn’t configured to take advantage of it. This is especially true if you’re a demanding user of your computer who frequently uses heavy applications or games.
How do I know if I need more RAM?
Adding more RAM may help your computer run faster, especially when performing memory-intensive tasks like video editing or gaming. However, this is only one part of the puzzle – you also need a fast CPU and SSD storage to achieve optimal performance.
The best way to determine if your PC needs more RAM is by using real-time RAM monitoring software (such as the free version of MiniTool System Booster). This will show you the actual usage of your current RAM.
If you see that your computer is not able to close programs without slowing down or if it has trouble running several resources-heavy apps at the same time, this is a good indication that you need more RAM. You can easily upgrade the amount of RAM in your PC with modules called dual inline memory modules, or DIMMs, that are mounted on long strips on your motherboard. DIMMs come in different sizes and have a clock speed that affects their functionality.