new build with Win7-6Gb of RAM really usable?

[jnjboc]

hi folks,

the RAM I am getting for my new rig is very expensive, and I don't want to overbuy.

I will be using the Win7 64 bit O/S for the first time, and the system will be for gaming only.

my question...would I ever really use 6Gb of RAM for gaming(FPS type games).

I was definintely going to get 4GB, for sure.

Appreciate the advice!

Jeff.

 

[jdjbuffalo]

Will you be able to use the 6GB for just gaming today? No. I don't believe there is one game out there that uses more than about 3GB of RAM at max settings.

Now that's not to say not worth getting the 6GB of RAM. 4GB is the standard today. But if you give it another year or two then you'll probably see some games that will probably benefit from more than 4GB.

Also, keep in mind that it's not just the games that use the RAM. Windows 7 needs around 700MB - 1.5GB depending on how it's setup. Plus you have all the programs that may be running while you game. Programs like TeamSpeak, Steam, Anti-virus, Anti-malware, internet browser, etc.

 

[Chiefcrowe]

I don't think it would hurt to get 6. If i were getting a new system today i'd probably get 8GB, with 4 being the absolute minimum if it got to be too much for my budget.

 

[jnjboc]

thanks folks. I went ahead and bit the bullet and got 6GB.

you make some good points....

really appreciate your input.

Jeff

 

[corkyg]

As long as it is 64 bit, 6 GB will be fully usable.

 

[Matan Eldan]

http://blogs.zdnet.com/hardware/?p=2354

Interesting blog about memory amounts and their potential with 64 Bit OS

 

[t0mn8r]

jnjboc,
I run 8GB of RAM and mine is also a gaming rig. Depending on the game your RAM will be used as the games use RAM to read in textures, maps etc.

4GB is also cool. You won't be memory starved like in XP.

HTH