RAM - More isn't always better

When it comes to picking the right amount of RAM, more isn't always better. Think of RAM like the top of your desk; you need enough space to spread out your current projects, but having a desk the size of a parking lot doesn't help you work any faster.  For most users today, 16GB is the sweet spot that handles dozens of browser tabs and background apps without a hiccup.  Pushing for 32GB or 64GB sounds impressive, but unless you are editing high-resolution video or running complex virtual machines, that extra memory just sits idle and offers zero performance boost.

The timing of your upgrade matters just as much as the capacity, especially given the recent volatility in the market. We saw significant RAM price spikes in late 2025 and early 2026, with some types of RAM more than doubling in price.  This was driven by demand from AI data centers and manufactures shifting their production to meet this increased demand.  We aren't sure when prices will stabilize, but for now we recommend sticking to the 16GB standard to keep your build fast and your budget sensible.