Windows 11 Gets Memory Improvements for 8GB PCs

Microsoft says the update lets Windows 11 keep more active data in memory instead of shifting it to slower storage. On 8GB computers, its lab tests found responsiveness improved by up to 20 percent and multitasking speed by up to 40 percent.

The company says common actions such as opening Start, File Explorer and Settings, searching, and right-clicking have become up to 20 percent more responsive since January. Edge can launch up to 33 percent faster, while Microsoft Teams’ Efficiency Mode is enabled by default on 8GB PCs and can improve launch speed by up to 20 percent.

Microsoft tested multitasking by running 20 Edge tabs, a 4K video, Outlook, the file browser, and hefty documents in Word, PowerPoint and Excel at the same time. The company also says those four Microsoft 365 apps now use up to 360MB less RAM. Across Windows, Edge and Microsoft 365, changes limit the rise in committed memory by as much as 900MB.

Other adjustments include delaying widget loading until the panel is opened and putting inactive Edge tabs to sleep after 15 minutes. Microsoft says memory compression and shared components across Windows features will see further improvements in the coming months. It is also working with PC and chip makers to reduce the memory reserved for hardware.

The improvements require Windows 11 version 26H2, build 26300.9818 or later, and Microsoft advises users to keep apps updated. The company still recommends 16GB or more for demanding creative work.