RAM (Random Access Memory) provides rapid and temporary access to computer data. RAM is located between the processor and permanent data storage, for example a mechanical hard drive or SSD.
When a computer boots, the processor requests data (such as that from the operating system) residing on the hard drive or SSD and loads it into RAM. The RAM is several thousand times faster than the most efficient SSD drives.
RAM is significantly faster than the most efficient SSD. Therefore, having more RAM capacity to run applications and process data close to the processor improves the efficiency and speed of the computer.
How much RAM do you have?
If you are using a Windows PC
Windows 7 and earlier
- Find the My Computer icon in the Start menu.
- Right-click the My Computer icon and select Properties from thedisplayed menu.
- The amount of installed memory is listed under System and under Processor Model. It is measured in MB (megabytes) or GB (gigabytes).
Windows 8 and later
- Press CTRL+SHIFT+ESC to open Task Manager.
- Select the Performance tab, then Memory. Detailed information about total memory capacity, number of slots, format, speed and usage is displayed.
If you are using a Mac system
- Open the Apple menu and click About This Mac.
- Select System Report to display the System Information window.
- Click Memory, which is displayed under the Hardware section.
Memory location information displays the current memory configuration. This information allows you to determine the memory slots occupied, the type of memory installed, and the number of slots still available to install new Kingston modules.
How much RAM do I need
RAM (Random Access Memory) provides rapid and temporary access to computer data. RAM is located between the processor and permanent data storage, for example a mechanical hard drive or SSD. When a computer boots, the processor requests data (such as that from the operating system) residing on the hard drive or SSD and loads it into RAM. The RAM is several thousand times faster than the most efficient SSD drives. RAM is significantly faster than the most efficient SSD. Therefore, having more RAM capacity to run applications and process data close to the processor improves the efficiency and speed of the computer.
How much RAM do you have?
If you are using a Windows PC
Windows 7 and earlier
- Find the My Computer icon in the Start menu.
- Right-click the My Computer icon and select Properties from the displayed menu.
- The amount of installed memory is listed under System and under Processor Model. It is measured in MB (megabytes) or GB (gigabytes).
Windows 8 and later
- Press CTRL+SHIFT+ESC to open Task Manager.
- Select the Performance tab, then Memory. Detailed information about total memory capacity, number of slots, format, speed and usage is displayed.
If you are using a Mac system
- Open the Apple menu and click About This Mac.
- Select System Report to display the System Information window.
- Click Memory, which is displayed under the Hardware section.
Memory location information displays the current memory configuration. This information allows you to determine the memory slots occupied, the type of memory installed, and the number of slots still available to install new Kingston modules.
How much RAM do I need?
The base memory installed in many computers is 4 or 8 GB. While 4 GB or 8 GB may be enough for the operating system and a few applications, don’t expect to multitask or have large files open at the same time without affecting performance. A mid-range setup might need double that, while high-end gaming systems and workstations need 64GB or more to run smoothly.
When evaluating your memory needs, consider three things: the minimum memory capacity requirements of your operating system, the channel architecture requirements of the motherboard (whether modules should be installed in groups of 2 or 4?) and the memory requirements of the applications you usually use.
The base memory installed in many computers is 4 or 8 GB. While 4 GB or 8 GB may be enough for the operating system and a few applications, don’t expect to multitask or have large files open at the same time without affecting performance. A mid-range setup might need double that, while high-end gaming systems and workstations need 64GB or more to run smoothly.
When evaluating your memory needs, consider three things: the minimum memory capacity requirements of your operating system, the channel architecture requirements of the motherboard (whether modules should be installed in groups of 2 or 4?) and the memory requirements of the applications you usually use.
