- You can check how much
RAM memory you have using your PC's "About Your PC" menu, or your Mac's "About This Mac" menu. - Most computers have 8 GB or 16 GB of RAM, although occasionally you'll see 32 GB or higher.
- RAM helps programs run in the background, so you can switch between them without delay.
RAM, or random access memory, is essential for speedy computing and smooth visuals. It stores information from all the apps currently running, so they work even when left in the background, and can open quickly when you switch focus to them again.
How much RAM you need depends on what you'll be using it for. 8 GB is the standard RAM size - you won't find many modern computers with less than this. But if you're an audio or video professional, or a serious gamer, you'll want a computer with 16 GB or higher.
If your computer has memory issues or is consistently slow, the problem could be your RAM. You can upgrade it if you feel this is a problem. But first, you'll want to see how much RAM you have already.
You can check how much RAM your PC or Mac has in just a few clicks.
How to check how much RAM you have on a Windows PC
If you use Windows 10, it's easy to check.
- Click on the Start menu and type "about" in the search bar.
- Click "About Your PC" when it appears in the search results.
Scroll down to "Installed RAM." The amount of RAM you have (and the amount that your computer can actually use) will be displayed there.
You can also find this information using the Task Manager.
- Right click your Taskbar and click "Task Manager" or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open it quickly.
- Click the "Performance" tab at the top. If you don't see this tab, click "More details" at the bottom.
- Click "Memory."
You'll see how much RAM you have at the top of the graph, and information on how much the computer is currently using below it.
How to check how much RAM you have on a Mac
Although Macs generally can't be upgraded as easily as PCs, some Mac computers do let you replace the RAM.
- Click the Apple icon in the top-left hand corner of your screen, and select "About This Mac."
The window that opens will show you your computer's stats. Next to "Memory," you'll see how much RAM your computer has.
If you want a more detailed reading of how much RAM you have - including how the RAM is split up - you can use the System Report menu.
- In the same About This Mac menu, click "System Report…"
- A larger window will open, filled with details about your Mac's hardware. In the left sidebar, click "Memory."
- On the page that appears, you'll see details about your computer's "Memory Slots." You can use this to see how your Mac's RAM is split up - for example, on this Mac, 16 GB of RAM is split between two 8 GB memory sticks.