How much memory do you need to run Windows, macOS or Linux apps?
What is RAM?
RAM (Random Access Memory) provides fast access and temporary storage for data in computers. RAM sits in-between the processor and permanent data storage, like an HDD/SSD. When a computer is turned on, the processor requests data (such as the operating system) from the HDD/SSD and loads this into RAM.RAM is significantly faster than even the fastest SSDs, so having more RAM capacity to hold applications and data near the processor helps make computing quick and efficient.
How much RAM do I have?
If you are using a Windows-based PC
Windows 7 and older
- Locate the Computer icon in the Start menu.
- Right-click the Computer icon and select Properties from the menu.
- Under System and beneath the processor model, you can see the installed memory amount, measured in MB (megabytes) or GB (gigabytes).
Windows 8 and newer
- Press CTRL + SHIFT + ESC to open Task Manager.
- Select the Performance tab, then Memory. Detailed information is shown about the total memory capacity, number of slots, form factor, speed and usage.
If you are using a MAC System
- Open the Apple menu and click About this Mac.
- Select System Report to display the System Information screen.
- Click Memory, listed under the Hardware section.
The Memory Slot information shows your current memory configuration. This information helps you determine which slots are occupied, the type of memory and the number of slots that are still available to install new Kingston memory.
How much RAM do I need?
The base memory installed in many computers is 4GB or 8GB. While 4GB or 8GB may be enough for the OS and a few applications, don’t expect to multi-task or have large files open at the same time without affecting performance. A mid-range configuration may require double that and high-end gaming systems and workstations need as much as 64GB or more to run smoothly.
When assessing your memory needs, consider three things: the minimum memory capacity requirements of your operating system, the motherboard channel architecture requirements (do modules need to be installed in groups of 2 or 4?) and the memory demands of the applications you typically use.
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Use the following chart to help you assess your optimum memory needs.{{Footnote.N52229}}
| Basic User | Professional User | Gamer / Enthusiast User | |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC/Laptop | 4 - 8GB - 16GB | 16GB - 32GB - 64GB+ | 32GB - 64GB - 128GB+ |
| Example Uses | E-mail, light internet browsing (fewer than 6 internet tabs) | E-mail, heavy internet usage (6+ internet tabs) | High-performance gaming |
| Light multi-tasking (2-4 applications) | Heavy multi-tasking (4+ applications) | Heavy multi-tasking (4+ applications) | |
| Office / school applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc) | Full-suite office applications | Streaming, content creation | |
| Graphic design/3D modelling | |||
| Corporate software applications (CRM, accounting, manufacturing) | |||
| Software programming, design engineering, digital audio workstations, video editing, advanced web and database development, production-level editing, data sciences |
Note that operating systems have a minimum, and some maximum, capacities for RAM
| Minimum RAM | Maximum RAM | |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 10/11 Enterprise (x64) Windows 10/11 Education (x64) Windows 10/11 Pro for Workstations (x64) Windows 10/11 Pro (x64) Windows 10/11 Home (x64) | 1GB (32-bit) or 2GB (64-bit) | 6TB 2TB 6TB 2TB 128GB |
| Windows 8 Enterprise (x64) Windows 8 Professional (x64) Windows 8 (x64) | 1GB (32-bit) or 2GB (64-bit) | 512GB 512GB 128GB |
| Windows 7 Ultimate (x64) Windows 7 Enterprise (x64) Windows 7 Professional (x64) Windows 7 Home Premium (x64) Windows 7 Home Basic (x64) | 1GB (32-bit) or 2GB (64-bit) | 192GB 192GB 192GB 16GB 8GB |
| Windows Vista Ultimate Windows Vista Enterprise Windows Vista Business Windows Vista Home Premium Windows Vista Home Basic | 1GB (32-bit) or 2GB (64-bit) | 128GB 128GB 128GB 16GB 8GB |
| 8GB | ||
| macOS 10.15 Catalina macOS 11 Big Sur | 4GB | |
macOS 10.14 Mojave | 2GB | 128GB |
| Linux – Ubuntu | 4GB |
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