RAM 101: What You Need, What’s Out There, and Why “More” Can Save Your Day

What Is RAM?

• RAM (Random Access Memory) is your PC’s “short-term memory”—it helps everything run smoothly, from loading samples to running big projects.

Main Types of RAM Right Now

• DDR4:

  • Still the most common for most desktops and laptops (2016–2023 builds).

  • Affordable, fast, and available in large capacities (up to 32GB or 64GB per stick).

• DDR5:

  • Latest generation (2022 and newer motherboards, especially Intel 12th/13th/14th Gen and AMD Ryzen 7000+).

  • Faster speeds, more bandwidth—great for heavy multitasking, future-proofing.

  • Still a bit more expensive, but prices are dropping.

Older types:

• DDR3 (pre-2015 PCs) and DDR2 (way old) are mostly gone from new builds.

How Much RAM Do You Need?

• Basic music/video creation:

  • 16GB is a good minimum for DAWs, video editors, and multitasking.

• Heavy projects, big sample libraries, or lots of plugins:

  • 32GB or more is smart—you’ll thank yourself later.

• Virtualization, advanced sound design, or pro video:

  • 64GB+ is worth it, but only if you know you need it.

RAM: The Best “Bang for Your Buck” Upgrade

• RAM prices have dropped—a big 32GB or even 64GB kit is now affordable for many.

• Not saying you should max out your motherboard “just because,” but:

  • Too little RAM = lag, crashes, and frozen sessions.

  • Too much RAM? It’ll just sit ready for when you need it—no harm done.

Echo’s Tips

• Programs like old-school Fruity Loops (FL Studio), big DAW projects, and anything with virtual instruments/plugins can eat RAM.

• Virtual machines (running Windows, Linux, etc. inside your PC) really need more RAM.

• Always match the type (DDR4 vs DDR5), speed, and voltage your motherboard supports.

Bottom Line: Go for at least 16GB, but don’t be afraid to bump it up if your budget allows—especially if you’re working on big projects or want your PC to last. It’s a creator’s best safety net.