Is 32GB RAM the right amount for Photoshop and dozens of browser tabs?

Yes, it will benefit you significantly. Modern browsers eat 8-10GB with a dozen heavy tabs, Photoshop takes another 6-8GB, and 16GB forces swap and slowdowns. 32GB gives real breathing room—no micromanaging tabs or closing things before opening a large PSD. On a laptop with non-upgradeable RAM, it’s even more essential.