How Much Memory Does Linux Use?
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Windows 10 requires 2 GB of RAM, but Microsoft recommends you have at least 4 GB. Let’s compare this to Ubuntu, the most well-known version of Linux for desktops and laptops. Canonical, Ubuntu’s developer, recommends 2 GB of RAM.

How much memory does Linux need?

Memory Requirements. Linux requires very little memory to run compared to other advanced operating systems. You should have at the very least 8 MB of RAM; however, it’s strongly suggested that you have at least 16 MB. The more memory you have, the faster the system will run.

Is 8 GB RAM enough for Linux?

4GB is ample for normal use of just about any Linux distro. The only time when you would need more is if you were running a RAM heavy program such as a video editor; Linux distros themselves typically take less RAM than Windows. TL;DR Yes, 8GB should be ample.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.

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