RAM is the most well-known part in the world of desktops, laptops, and mobile phones. Even a person with minimal understanding of technology knows about the importance of ram. Most of us know that more RAM means better and faster functionality; but how much memory does a computer really need?
In this article, we will briefly discuss everything about RAM. Knowledge about RAM and other components is crucial for every tech user, especially those who are on a budget so let’s go!
What is RAM?
Before we talk about how much RAM you need, you need to understand what RAM actually is. RAM is the short form of random-access memory. The name itself kind of gives away what RAM does; it contains memories that can be randomly accessed by the system.
RAM is volatile or temporary memory. This means RAM only contains data when the computer is on or the RAM is getting power. When you turn off the system, all the data from the RAM gets erased automatically. RAM is very fast in terms of exchanging data, way faster than the most advanced SSDs.
Different programs and software use various data that are stored in RAM for fast and effective functionality. RAM provides space for storing data that the programs are actively using on a short-term basis. This allows faster access to the necessary data and results in a smooth and seamless performance.
Why Does Your Computer Need RAM?
Computers need RAM because of some limitations of the processor. The processor can process only one task at a time. But programs and operating systems send multiple files to the processor for processing. So, the remaining data that the processor needs to process waits in the RAM for the processor to finish processing.
You can ask why programs can access the data from a regular storage device. The design of the operating system is in such a way that your computer won’t work without RAM. Technically speaking, a computer is possible without RAM but that will be hellishly slow. As of right now, no modern computers will work without RAM.
How Much RAM Does a Computer Need?
When you press the power button on your laptop or desktop, the operating system loads on the RAM. No program, not even the bios will run without RAM. That being said, you will need a minimum amount of memory to run your computer, or the operating system to be specific. The least recommended is 4GB of RAM.
However, no one buys a computer to run the operating system and nothing else. 4GB RAM is only recommended when you are using low-end Chromebooks. However, this should only be the case when you are very tight on a budget because no program these days is suitable for 4GB RAM. The least you will need for your computer for standard functioning is 8GB.
16GB is standard for windows and macOS for gaming and light productivity. Note that the RAM needs to be fast besides having more memory. 32GB just out runs all the competitions both for gaming and productivity purposes. It is slightly more than the sweet spot for most people.
64GB and above is for enthusiasts and doesn’t bear much value in terms of anything at the consumer level. Yes, some tasks require such a massive amount of memory or even more, but that’s not the concern for average users.
Here’s a table showing how RAM is required for some common uses:
| Use | RAM (GB) |
| Basic Use | 4 to 8 |
| Gaming | 8 to 16 |
| Streaming | 32 to 64 |
| Photo Editing | 16 or More |
| Video Editing | 16 or More |
| 3D Rendering | 16 or More |
| Machine Learning | 32 or More |
Note that these amounts are for optimal performance. You can get by with less RAM for each of these uses. And in some cases, having more RAM can provide more functionality. But, these values are a great place to begin.
Conclusion
If you are still confused about how much memory a computer needs, then don’t worry. RAM can be a very confusing computer part if you’re not a PC nerd like us. Buy too much and you are just wasting money. Buy too little and you lose out on performance. That’s why we at Duck Duck Geeks provide consultation and PC building services for our troubled clients.
Contact Us Now and an experienced technician will get in touch with you right away to help you build or upgrade your dream gaming PC or workstation.
