How to use this tool
This tool turns "what I actually do" into a sensible RAM figure, and — more usefully — tells you whether an upgrade is worth the money.
What RAM does
RAM is your computer's short-term workbench. Each open tab, app, and background process sits on it. When you run out, Windows starts using the slow disk instead (called "swapping"), which is why a low-RAM PC gets sluggish — even if it's not "broken".
The quick guide
- 8 GB — comfortable for web browsing, email, video, light office work.
- 16 GB — comfortable for many tabs, photo editing, and most home/office use.
- 32 GB+ — video editing, 3D, or heavy multitasking.
Is it worth upgrading?
If your PC is already on 4 GB and you're a light user, going to 8 GB is one of the best-value fixes there is. If you're already on 8 GB and it feels fine, more RAM won't make it dramatically faster — the drive (an SSD) usually matters more.
The single biggest speed upgrade for an old PC is usually the drive, not the RAM. This tool tells you which one your situation points to.