Follow ZDNET: Add us as a favorite source On Google.
ZDNET Highlights
- RAM allows computers to run faster and better.
- 16GB is now the standard for PCs and laptops.
- Heavy users may need more RAM. Know when to upgrade.
I struggle with this when shopping for a new computer – there is so much to take into account. Over time, I learned to boil it down to the “performance trifecta” – the three main components you should care about: processor, storage drives, and RAM. A good processor is the brain of the computer, and plenty of local storage means you’ll have enough space for all your files.
Also: You’re Cleaning Your Desktop PC Wrong: 8 Cheap and Easy Ways to Maintain It
But what about memory? This is a component that many people completely understand (I was certainly part of this group). RAM, or random access memory, is essentially the computer’s short-term memory. Instead of saving data directly to the SSD, the computer stores files temporarily in RAM for quick access, resulting in faster performance. The more RAM you have (measured in gigabytes or GB), the more memory you will have.
There is a lot of information and different opinions regarding RAM and how much RAM you need on your computer. Should you choose a laptop with 32GB LPDDR5X RAM, or will 16GB be enough? I’m here to clear up all the fog and provide easy-to-understand advice on how much memory you should get.
How much RAM will you need in 2025?
Short answer: It depends on the operating system. For Windows machines, 16 GB of RAM has become the operating minimum on new consumer laptops. Modern workloads have increased to such an extent that less RAM is fine on a Windows device, but it will limit you to everyday tasks like composing emails, browsing the Internet or watching YouTube videos.
But let’s be real here: The average worker is probably running dozens of tabs in their browser, a handful of apps in the background, and (possibly) generative AI, all of which demands memory power. In that sense, most people who use their Windows laptop for work will want at least 16GB (for a value-driven, future-proof option) for a seamless user experience.
Also: Why would I choose this HP Windows laptop instead of a MacBook for work – especially at its latest price
If you’re upgrading to Windows 11, Microsoft says the minimum requirements are 4GB of RAM, but I’d still recommend 16GB as the baseline standard. If you have more than that, even better, but for most PCs, Windows 11 should run just as well as the older operating system.
When it comes to MacBooks, things are a little different. Since Apple’s machines are so optimized to handle daily workflows, 8GB of RAM is a bit more than a stock laptop running Windows. In fact, it wasn’t until recently that Apple made 16GB the starting point with the new MacBook Air M4.
MacBooks with 8GB are still solid machines for daily use, while more powerful models like the MacBook Pro and MacBook Pro Max with 24GB, 36GB or more offer ample power, making them some of the most powerful laptops (and some of the most expensive) on the market.
In addition to Windows and Mac, Chromebooks are a third category of consumer laptops that have seen a rise in popularity over the past few years due to their lower average price and lightweight operating system: ChromeOS.
Also: Is a refurbished MacBook viable in 2025? I did the math, and here’s my expert advice
Because ChromeOS is so streamlined, Chomebooks can do just fine with 8GB or less, making them great machines for handling basics like working from a browser and keeping your Google Suite at your fingertips, with fast performance and a low price. The tradeoff, however, is that you’ll have less access to the apps you’d otherwise find on Windows.
Overall, it is safe to say that the more memory you have, the better your computer should perform. But having too much RAM can also be a poor return on investment because you spend money on a resource that you rarely use to its full extent. It’s like owning a big house but only using certain rooms.
When buying a new laptop, I just recommend that you have a clear understanding of what you want to use it for – that way you can have a realistic expectation of how much RAM you’ll need.
What does DDR5 mean?
Sometimes, when purchasing a computer, you will see a number followed by the letters “DDR.” It’s an acronym that means “double data rate.” DDR is a type of technology that improves data transfer speed from RAM to other components such as the processor. There have been five main DDR generations so far, with the latest and fastest standard being DDR5.
Similar to 16 GB memory, DDR technology has effectively become the new standard for RAM as users demand faster speeds. There are also variations in technology. One notable variant is LPDDR5X, which stands for Low-Power Double Data Rate 5X, which is a more energy-efficient version of DDR5 designed specifically for mobile devices.
Don’t expect DDR6 RAM to be released for any computers in the near future. We saw the announcement of the release of JEDEC (Joint Electron Device Engineering Council) LPDDR6 returned in early JulyJEDEC is the organization that established DDR as a standard for computers, This technology is available for manufacturers to implement in their devices, but whether or not this will happen – or how soon – has not yet been seen,
Want more laptop advice? Add ZDNET as a favorite Google source On Chrome and Chromium browsers.
When should you upgrade?
16GB is fine for most cases, although if you’re a gamer or creative professional, you should consider choosing 32GB of RAM. More RAM will ensure that the games you play and the video-editing apps you use for work run more smoothly. I have that amount for my personal computer, and I’m very happy with that setup because I don’t just write.
I also play games, edit photos and videos, and run virtual machines on my desktop, among other things. This is a heavy workload that requires the right amount of resources to operate; Still, I’m considering further upgrading my PC. It’s not unusual for me to have my workload take up more than 70% of my computer’s total RAM.
Also: I recommend this older Windows 11 laptop over some of the newer models – here’s why
Unless you are a specific type of user, I would consider any memory above 32GB excessive. If you’re editing 8K videos or running heavy apps simultaneously, you’ll probably need 48GB or 64GB of RAM. A good laptop that can deliver would be something like this m4 macbook pro Or dell premium 16These are solid, top-tier machines that are capable of handling tough workloads,
I’ve been writing about both software and consumer electronics for almost 10 years now, and during that time, I’ve worked in many different settings, from a traditional office to a home office and even someone’s backyard. The remote experience has made me extremely selective about what I choose to make my main computer, as I want to make sure that the equipment I use can handle my day-to-day tasks. I’m on my computer all day, practically every day of the week.
Also: I tested several AiO computers in 2025, and these are the best for your office setup
I’m also at the point where I’ve tried almost every type of laptop available on the market. I know which features and specifications you should look for when buying a new computer – and which ones aren’t worth your time.
The advice I’ve given is not a set of hard and fast rules. My goal is simply to provide a basis for what you should look for in a laptop. What is best for you depends on your specific needs.
show more
