How much RAM do I need for modern AAA gaming?

16GB is the floor. 8GB will technically run games like Elden Ring, but you’ll get stutters, hitches, and longer load times because Windows and background apps eat a few gigs before the game starts, leaving maybe 5GB for the game itself. The system then swaps to your SSD or hard drive, causing micro-stutters. The $40-$60 upgrade to 16GB (or 32 if you can swing it) is the best performance-per-dollar investment for gaming.