Random Access Memory, also known as RAM or just ‘memory’, is one of the fundamental components of a Personal Computer. Its job is to act as a worktable of sorts for the Central Processing Unit (CPU), which in turn is the computer’s brain.

RAM is temporary storage, like how programs are stored on a drive of some kind (Hard drive in older systems, Solid State Drive in newer systems) as long-term storage, so when the CPU needs to access a file or a program it copies the part of the file into the RAM so that it can work on it.

RAM is critical for system performance, to little and your system won’t operate at peak performance; to much is a waste of money.

Every computing device, including things like a smart TV or home assistant (like an Amazon Alexia) need RAM in order for them to weave their digital magic.

Focusing on Windows devices, Microsoft recommends that you have about 8 GB of RAM to keep your windows devices operating at peak efficiency, assuming you are using a newer version of the Operating System.

RAM is dynamic, this means that the contents are wiped clean every time power is no longer going to the RAM.

RAM, as a physical component, exists as a small painted circuit board with a number of chips soldered to it. These chips can deal with millions or even billions of individual ‘bits’ of information every second. A bit is the smallest unit of information your computer can process. For our purposes, consider it a zero or a one.

HOW MUCH RAM DO I NEED?

This is one of the most common questions that I get asked, and the answer is; it depends. Whereas a few years ago, the answer would have been ‘always more!’ the technology has evolved to such an extent that it is very easy to ‘over-spec’ memory. If you are building a bespoke system, then it’s very tempting to get carried away and just buy a truly staggering amount of RAM that you probably will never need.

It’s worth noting that having too much RAM will not make your system unstable or be detrimental in any way – other than perhaps to your bank balance.

4 GB Entry level for Chromebooks and very simple, you wouldn’t really see anything like this on a laptop running Windows or MacOS.

8 GB Entry level laptops, essentially the minimum you will need to have a good consistent experience with Windows.

16 GB Excellent for running windows and MacOS

32 GB A sweet spot for most gaming setups, running video editing or even programming.

64 GB only really suitable for high end user and specialist purposes