How much RAM do you really need in 2020?

When considering getting a new computer – or even upgrading your current one – be it a laptop or desktop, the amount of RAM the computer has is always an important factor.

What is RAM?

Random-access memory, or RAM, is the hardware that your computer uses to store short term data that is in frequent use to provide quick access to files that the computer is actively reading or writing, whereas a hard drive (HDD) stores long term data. Both your RAM and your HDD work together when performing tasks on the computer.

Certain applications will require more RAM to function effectively, such as video games and most editing programmes such as the Adobe suite. Every process that runs on your computer will use a portion of your RAM, Windows 10 requires a minimum of 2GB RAM just to function. That means that the more programmes you have running, the more your RAM will be used.

Is 4GB sufficient?

Most standard work computers will come with 4GB of RAM, which is fine for basic home use such as browsing the internet or using Microsoft Office, but if you plan on having several programmes running at once, like your emails, web browser, word and excel all at once then it is advised to up it to 8GB to make your life easier.

How about gaming?

Most modern games will recommend up to 16GB of RAM, which is not necessarily required. 8GB is normally good enough for most games today. It’s only when you are considering recording your gameplay that it will be more beneficial to have that extra RAM, as your recording software will also require more RAM to result in smooth recordings.

What about editing?

If you are doing 4K resolution image or video editing, then pushing it up to 32GB of RAM is advised, both for the actual editing process and the rendering at the end. Having less than 32GB might make it difficult to do other things on your computer while you wait for your video or image to render.

What else is there to consider?

Aside from the amount of RAM your computer needs, there are a couple of other factors to keep in mind. There are different types of RAM, namely DDR2, DDR3 and DDR4 RAM. DDR2 RAM is mostly obsolete and isn’t commonly manufactured anymore.

Motherboards will only support one type of RAM, so it is important to note which type your computer uses before you purchase more. Another thing to consider is the frequency of your RAM. As mentioned earlier, your RAM is used to store short term memory for active processes on the computer, so the higher the frequency, the faster your PC can load this data. The base speed of DDR4 RAM is 2400Mhz and common speeds for gaming RAM are 3000mhz or 3200mhz.

For your convenience, Computer World has retail outlets in Hillcrest and Pietermaritzburg

For the best computer deals, whether online or in-store, visit Computer World today.

Hillcrest
35 Richdens Village Centre, 59-61 Old Main Rd
031 765 4438

Pietermaritzburg
Parklane Shopping Centre, 12 Chief Albert Luthuli St
033 342 5801

OR SHOP ONLINE – www.computer-world.co.za

If you are seeking value-added, cost-effective, practical and efficient business or personal application solutions utilizing all available technology look no further than Computer World

At Computer World, our trained and highly skilled sales staff use both technical and practical knowledge to help ensure you leave our stores with products that will suit your needs and your pocket.

Our experienced and highly trained technical staff at Computer World are there to provide our customers with unparalleled after-sales service, as well as assisting with backups and repairs.

Computer World is here to help you with a cost-effective IT solution for you and your business. For excellent service before, during and after your purchase – look no further than Computer World.

If you wish to learn more about the technical support and assistance Computer World offer, please visit our Technical support page to learn more.

Errors and omissions excepted (E&OE)