How much RAM do I really need for gaming in 2005?
I'm building a new gaming PC and can't decide between 512MB and 1GB of RAM. Half-Life 2 recommends 512MB but some people say 1GB makes a big difference. RAM is expensive right now — about $80 for 512MB. Is it worth spending $160 for 1GB or should I put that money toward a better video card instead?
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I build computers for a living and can tell you that most of these problems come down to three things: not enough RAM, outdated drivers, or malware. Check those first before spending money on new hardware.
4 Answers
I build computers for a living and can tell you that most of these problems come down to three things: not enough RAM, outdated drivers, or malware. Check those first before spending money on new hardware.
Newegg is your friend for parts. Way cheaper than Best Buy or CompUSA and the customer reviews actually help you avoid junk. Just watch out for shipping on heavy stuff like CRT monitors. Read the reviews before you buy ANYTHING.
Don't forget about heat. If your computer is shutting down or crashing randomly, open the case and check if the fans are caked with dust. Blow it out with a can of compressed air. Overheating causes a shocking number of 'mystery' problems.
This is a case where spending a little more upfront saves you money in the long run. Cheap hardware fails faster and costs more to replace. Buy quality components from reputable brands and they'll last years longer.
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