Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsHigh RAM usage alone does not mean your PC needs a fix. First check whether memory is actually under pressure and which apps are using it. Then close only what you do not need; consider a RAM upgrade only if the slowdown persists and your PC supports one.
Check whether RAM use is causing the slowdown
Reproduce the problem with the game and your usual apps open. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager. In Processes, select the Memory column to sort by use. Then open Performance > Memory to see overall memory use and availability. Microsoft recommends monitoring resource use and reviewing processes that use a lot of system resources (Microsoft’s Windows performance guidance).
- Look for symptoms alongside the percentage: stutter, sluggish response, or slow switching between the game and other apps.
- Note which process is using memory. It could be the game, a browser, launcher, chat app, or capture software.
- If the PC remains responsive and available memory is not low, a high percentage by itself is not proof of a problem.
As demand rises, Windows can trim or page out older content. That can free memory for active work, but retrieving displaced content later may take longer and affect responsiveness (Microsoft’s explanation of memory use and the page file).
Close apps you do not need for the session
In Task Manager’s Processes view, close apps you recognize and are not using. A browser with many tabs, recording software, or a chat client may be an avoidable consumer while you play. Do not end unfamiliar processes or Windows services just because they appear in the list; identify them first.
#1 Best Overall
- Disclaimer: Maximum Speed requires overclocking/PC BIOS adjustments. Maximum speed and performance depend on system components, including motherboard and CPU
- Hand-sorted memory chips ensure high performance with generous overclocking headroom
- VENGEANCE LPX is optimized for wide compatibility with the latest Intel and AMD DDR4 motherboards
- A low-profile height of just 34mm ensures that VENGEANCE LPX even fits in most small-form-factor builds
- A solid aluminum heatspreader efficiently dissipates heat from each module so that they consistently run at high clock speeds
If the same background app repeatedly uses substantial memory, update it, change when it starts, or consult that app’s support guidance rather than repeatedly force-closing it.
Reduce nonessential startup and background activity
Disable automatic startup only for apps you do not need immediately after signing in. Windows provides startup controls in Settings and Task Manager; Microsoft’s instructions cover both routes and background activity (Microsoft’s Windows performance guidance).
Rank #2
- Unleash Next-Gen Dominance: Experience Lexar DDR5 RAM performance with the Lexar THOR Z Series RGB DDR5 RAM 32GB Kit (2x16GB). Clocking at a blistering 6000MHz with low CL38 latency, this DDR5 desktop memory delivers up to 6000 MT/s for a full-throttle advantage. Whether you're building a high-end gaming rig or a professional workstation, this Lexar 32GB RAM kit ensures your system keeps pace with next-gen titles
- Sleek & Robust Thermal Design: Engineered for both aesthetics and endurance, this Lexar DDR5 RAM 6000MHz features an all-new streamlined design. The solid, sandblasted aluminum heatsink fuses a minimalist, razor-sharp aesthetic with uncompromising thermal control. This Lexar THOR Z Series armor ensures your DDR5 memory stays cool under pressure, delivering sustained peak performance during intense gaming sessions
- Game in Style with Brighter RGB Lighting: Elevate your build's aesthetics with the enhanced customizable RGB lighting on this Lexar RGB DDR5 RAM. Brighter and more vibrant than previous generations, the Lexar THOR Z Series RGB DDR5 RAM allows you to synchronize lighting effects with your components, creating a truly immersive gaming atmosphere that stands out from the crowd
- On-die ECC & PMIC for Rock-Solid Stability: Go beyond speed with reliability. This Lexar DDR5 RAM kit integrates On-die Error Correction Code (ECC) to automatically correct data errors, vastly improving stability and reliability for your critical tasks. The onboard Power Management Integrated Circuit (PMIC) ensures efficient power delivery, boosting the overall power efficiency of your DDR5 desktop memory for a longer-lasting, more stable system
- Seamless Compatibility with Intel & AMD: Worry-free upgrade guaranteed. The Lexar THOR Z Series DDR5 RAM is built for broad compatibility with the latest platforms. It fully supports Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO one-click overclocking, making it effortless to achieve the rated speeds. Trust Lexar DDR5 RAM to deliver seamless performance with mainstream DDR5 motherboards
- Keep security software, drivers, and essential device utilities enabled.
- If you are unsure what an entry does, leave it enabled until you identify it.
- Change one nonessential app at a time, then see whether the game’s symptoms improve.
Leave page-file sizing to Windows unless you have a separate reason
The page file contributes to committed virtual memory, but it is not additional physical RAM. Paging when memory is under pressure can reduce responsiveness. The available guidance does not establish a gaming-specific manual page-file size, so leave the setting Windows-managed unless you have a separate, well-understood reason to change it (Microsoft’s page-file guidance).
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Consider a RAM upgrade only after checking compatibility
If monitoring shows sustained memory pressure and the game remains sluggish after you have closed unnecessary apps, compare your installed memory with the requirements for the specific game. Before buying anything, check the PC or motherboard manufacturer’s specifications for whether memory is upgradeable, the supported memory generation and form factor, and the maximum supported capacity. Then confirm what is already installed.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchRank #3
- Disclaimer: Maximum Speed requires overclocking/PC BIOS adjustments. Maximum speed and performance depend on system components, including motherboard and CPU
- Hand-sorted memory chips ensure high performance with generous overclocking headroom
- VENGEANCE LPX is optimized for wide compatibility with the latest Intel and AMD DDR4 motherboards
- A low-profile height of just 34mm ensures that VENGEANCE LPX even fits in most small-form-factor builds
- A solid aluminum heatspreader efficiently dissipates heat from each module so that they consistently run at high clock speeds
There is no universal gaming capacity established by the cited guidance. Microsoft lists 4 GB as the Windows 11 minimum system requirement, not a gaming recommendation (Windows 11 specifications). Microsoft also says 16 GB or more may suit some high-performance work such as photo or video editing; that is not a stated gaming requirement (Microsoft’s memory guidance). Choose a compatible kit for your exact PC only if an upgrade is supported and the evidence points to ongoing pressure.
Do not treat graphics toggles as RAM fixes
Windows 11’s windowed-game optimization is documented for compatible DirectX 10 and DirectX 11 games running in windowed or borderless-windowed mode. The feature concerns presentation and latency; Microsoft does not describe it as a way to reduce RAM use (Microsoft’s windowed-game optimization guidance).
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
