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Microsoft Raises Performance Bar for 8 GB Windows 11 PCs as RAM Prices Climb
Microsoft says it is raising the performance bar for 8 GB Windows 11 PCs as memory prices rise.
Key points
- Windows 11 will keep up to 2 GB more active data in memory before moving it to slower storage.
- Edge can launch up to 33 percent faster when already running in the background, according to Microsoft.
- Microsoft said a 2026 Dell XPS 13 with 8 GB of RAM performed about as well as a 2021 model with 16 GB.
Why it matters. The changes may help owners of 8 GB machines as RAM prices rise, though Microsoft says the complete PC, not memory capacity alone, shapes the experience.
Microsoft said on Tuesday it was 'raising the bar' for machines with only 8 GB of memory, with Windows 11 keeping up to 2 GB more active data in RAM. It says such a machine will be up to 20 percent more responsive and 40 percent faster at multitasking. Pavan Davuluri, Microsoft's EVP of Windows and devices, wrote that 8 GB suits everyday tasks, while 3D modeling and advanced video editing benefit from 16 GB or more.
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Microsoft Raises Performance Bar for 8 GB Windows 11 PCs as RAM Prices Climb
Microsoft said on Tuesday that it was raising the bar for 8 GB Windows 11 PCs. The move follows a renewed focus on memory optimisation earlier this year. RAM is becoming more expensive, which makes it important for Windows to run well on systems with 8 GB of memory. The Register suggests the memory crunch may be taking a bite out of Windows revenue. The changes come as Microsoft continues to push Windows 11.