How Much RAM Does Windows 11 Use?

Mnimum RAM requirement for Windows 11 is 4 GB

4 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

Share this article

Improve this guide

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more

Key notes

Does Windows 11 consume more RAM? It’s a question that requires an in-depth understanding of the idea, the computer’s use, and several other critical factors. In general, Windows 11 does use more memory, though it might not be the case for everyone.

If you had a PC running Windows 10 and recentlyupgraded to Windows 11, the RAM consumption might be higher. But why is that, and can you reduce the memory used in the latest iteration? Let’s find out the answer to these.

Why does Windows 11 consume so much RAM?

Here are a few reasons Windows 11 consumes so much RAM on your PC:

How much RAM do I need for Windows 11?

If we were to look at the system requirements for Windows 11, the latest iteration requires a minimum of 4 GB Random Access Memory to install on a device. Remember, it’s the minimum requirement for just running the OS.

Launch a few programs on a PC running Windows 11 with 4 GB of memory, and the device will slow down,apps may start crashing, and in the worst case, you won’t be able to use it at all. So, when upgrading to the latest iteration, ensure the PC has at least 8 GB RAM.

How much RAM does Windows 11 use when idle?

Based on feedback from users, our reader, and through in-depth research, it seems like Windows 11 uses around 2.5-3 GB of memory in an idle state. But remember, what you consider an idle state is not the same for the PC.

It still has several background processes and services running. More so, thestartup programs are launched as soon as Windows boots and will consume some resources.

Is 8GB of RAM enough for Windows 11?

8GB of memory should be good when running Windows 11 and a few simple programs and browsers. But, for resource-intensive tasks like gaming or running editing apps, you will need more RAM.

Google Chrome, for instance, uses a lot of memory, so you might consider switching to alightweight browser. Other similar changes, too, will help bring the RAM consumption in check.

Windows 11 RAM usage vs. Windows 10

Windows 11 does use more RAM than Windows 10, and it’s due to more built-in programs and features. It can be reduced, but we don’t recommend terminating the critical processes or disabling services vital for the effective functioning of the OS.

What can I do if Windows 11 consumes more RAM?

Though the problem is not encountered by many, you can quicklyfix high RAM usage in Windows 11if that is the case.

So, if you were earlier wondering whether Windows 11 does use more resources, the answer isYes. And you now know the reasons behind it as well as ways to reduce RAM usage.

Also, you cantake advantage of the best RAM cleanersto optimize your computer and fix any issues in no time. Another quick trick would be toincrease the page file in Windows 11.

Feel free to let us know how to prevent Windows 11 from hogging your memory in the comments below.

How Much RAM Does Windows 11 Use?#

Why does Windows 11 consume so much RAM?#

How much RAM do I need for Windows 11?#

How much RAM does Windows 11 use when idle?#

Is 8GB of RAM enough for Windows 11?#

Windows 11 RAM usage vs. Windows 10#

What can I do if Windows 11 consumes more RAM?#