5 Reasons 8GB RAM Isn't Enough for 4K ProRes Video Editing

4K ProRes eats RAM fast Apple’s memory architecture is efficient, but 8GB fills up quickly with layers, effects, and color grades. Expect stuttering timeline scrubbing and frequent beachballs.

Exports take forever Long export times are guaranteed once you push past light edits. You’ll waste hours waiting.

The MacBook Air throttles under load The fanless chassis hits thermal limits during sustained 4K work. Performance drops to keep the laptop from overheating, making daily editing miserable.

Light 1080p work is fine, but not 4K For short social clips or lightweight 1080p, the Air handles it. But for real ProRes editing, it’s underpowered.

16GB or a MacBook Pro is the real solution If this is your work tool, don’t cheap out on RAM. Future you will thank yourself for skipping the base model.