How Much RAM Is Best for a Gaming PC?

Are you thinking about buying a new PC for gaming?

Then one of the choices you’ll have to make is how much memory (RAM) you’ll include in your new system. This is an important point to consider, as modern games can be pretty memory intensive. So, how much RAM is best? Keep reading for the answer…

What is RAM?

Before we proceed though, let’s define exactly what we mean by RAM.

RAM is a computer’s short term memory. It stores the data that your computer is actively using; for example, pieces of data that are helping currently active programs to run.

In other words, the more programs you have running on your system, then the more RAM you’ll require.

So, if you tend to have multiple programs running on your computer at once, and you like to multitask, then you’ll need plenty of RAM in your computer.

Is RAM important for gaming?

Yes! RAM plays an important role in ensuring that your PC can play games in a smooth, functional way.

This is because your system will store frequently used parts of a game’s data on the RAM. This is so the more frequently used parts of a game’s data can be quickly accessed.

If you don’t have enough RAM in your computer, then you’ll find that your games will have poor frame rates and slow performance. In the worst cases, your games won’t play at all.

So, it’s vital that you have enough RAM in your gaming computer for the types of games you want to play.

How much RAM is best for gaming?

As a bare minimum it’s recommended that you should have at least 8GB of RAM in your system for gaming.

However, if you intend to play the very top AAA titles and want to futureproof your PC somewhat, then it’s recommended that you go for 16GB of RAM.

With 16GB of RAM in your system, you’ll also have enough memory for tasks like video editing, graphics rendering and graphic design.

Can RAM be upgraded?

Yes! RAM is one of the easiest things to upgrade in your computer. It’s certainly easier to upgrade than your average gamer’s graphics card!

Most computers will have one or two slots in the motherboard where you can ‘click’ new RAM memory into place.

It’s important to note though, that you have to make sure that the RAM you are upgrading to is compatible with your system. For example, we are now starting to see the arrival of DDR5 RAM on the market, but this won’t necessarily be compatible with many older motherboards.

If you’re in doubt, then there are plenty of RAM compatibility checker tools available on the internet.

Can you get RAM designed for gaming?

There are multiple manufacturers that make RAM that is specifically designed for gaming.

These gaming-specific RAM sticks will generally have high-capacity memory, feature sleek designs and will sometimes even include RGB for that added gaming ‘flare’.

What brands make RAM?

There are literally hundreds of different companies worldwide that design and manufacture RAM.

Some of the leading and most well established RAM manufacturers include Kingston, Crucial, Micron, Patriot, Corsair, Lexar, Samsung and HyperX.

Conclusion

So, if you want to have an enjoyable, high-performance gaming experience, it’s better to err on the side of caution and get more RAM than you think you’ll need.

Should you want to play the very best games and also future proof your system, then you should make sure you buy a gaming PC with at least 16GB of RAM.