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RAM
What is RAM?
RAM is your laptop's short-term memory. It temporarily stores the data apps need to run smoothly while you're using them. 4GB can cover the basics like browsing and email, while 8GB is a much better fit if you need to do a few things at the same time.
16GB gives you more power for gaming or creative work, since it has the space to store more complex information. Higher amounts like 32GB and above are usually only for specialist jobs like professional video editing or 3D design.
On Apple devices, you'll see something called Unified Memory. Simply put, it lets different parts of the laptop share data more efficiently, helping them make the most of available resources.
Types of RAM
Most laptops use DDR4 or DDR5 RAM, while some slimmer models use lower-power LPDDR RAM that’s designed to squeeze a bit more life out of the battery. But they all do the same job — helping your laptop keep up with whatever you’re up to.
Laptops have a lot less room to play with under the hood, but that doesn’t slow them down. As long as you've got enough memory for what you want to do, you’re golden.
Shop common RAM types
For more computing inspiration and advice, explore our Computing Hub.
FAQs
- What is RAM in a computer?
RAM is your computer's short-term memory. It stores the information your laptop or PC needs right now, helping apps open quickly and run smoothly. The more RAM you have, the better your device can handle multitasking, so it's less likely to slow down when you've got a lot on the go.
- What does memory do in a computer?
Memory lets your computer store and use data. There are 2 main types, and they each have a different job.
RAM is your computer's short-term memory. It helps apps open quickly and run smoothly by temporarily storing important data. Storage, such as an SSD or a hard drive, is your computer's long-term memory. This is where your photos, documents, apps and downloads live. Think about it like an office, storage is the filing cabinet and RAM is the desk. The filing cabinet holds everything important, while the desk gives you an area to work with it.
- How do I check how much RAM my computer has?
On a Windows PC, open Settings, then click on System and scroll down to About at the bottom. That’ll show you how much RAM you’ve got installed. If you're using a Mac, click the Apple menu and choose About This Mac.
- How do I upgrade my desktop’s RAM?
Upgrading your desktop's RAM is one of the easiest ways to give it a performance boost. First, check your PC's manual or the manufacturer's website to make sure you're buying the right type of memory.
Once you've got your new RAM, switch your computer off, unplug it from the mains and remove the side panel. Inside, you'll find the old RAM plugged into long horizontal slots on the motherboard. Gently remove them with the lever, then push the new ones firmly into place until they click in.
Put the side panel back on, plug everything back in, and switch it on. If all's gone to plan, your PC should start up as normal, but now with a bit more oomph for multitasking.
- How do I upgrade my laptop’s RAM?
Upgrading a laptop’s RAM is a lot trickier, since they tend to have all their components firmly soldered onto the motherboard. However, certain models like gaming laptops have special RAM slots that let you give them a bit more firepower.
If you’re unsure, check your laptop’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for more details.
- Is 8GB of RAM enough for a laptop?
For most people, 8GB of RAM is enough for everyday jobs like browsing the web, checking emails, and working on documents. It can also handle a decent number of tabs and apps running at the same time without any major issues.
