Memory (RAM)

Random-access memory, or RAM, helps your processor tackle multiple tasks at once. It stores temporary data on the fly while your computer is performing tasks. For basic computing, you will need a minimum of 2GB. A mainstream desktop computer will usually come with more than 4GB PC RAM. If you tend to run multiple apps at the same time or edit large digital media files with photo editing software, look for 8GB RAM or more. You can also find computers that allow you to expand RAM, if you think you might need more computer memory later. To add additional RAM to your computer, all you need to do is identify what type of motherboard model you have so you can find computer memory that is compatible. 

Your computer can do more things simultaneously the more RAM you have. A minimum of 4GB RAM is usually recommended for PC games, but increasing this to 8GB or more will often lead to much better performance. Some people might say the best RAM for gaming is as high as 16GB RAM, especially for demanding games. Since games require several different types of data to be manipulated all at once, not having enough RAM can create a bottleneck in gaming performance. If you also leave your game running in the background while you browse websites, read email, send email or stream videos, you will want to expand the RAM on your computer. Thankfully, RAM is not a very expensive component to upgrade on laptops or a gaming desktop. You will want to make sure any RAM you buy is compatible with your motherboard before upgrading, because there are several types of RAM.