For designers seeking a smoother, more efficient workflow, 16GB RAM is a popular choice. It provides enough memory for running heavy software and multitasking without performance slowdowns. But is 16GB truly necessary, or is 8GB enough for most tasks? Let’s compare.
The Advantages of 16GB RAM
Compared to 8GB RAM, upgrading to 16GB means:
- Faster multitasking – Run Photoshop, Illustrator, and Figma simultaneously.
- Smoother large file handling – Work with high-res images, complex vector graphics, and video files without slowdowns.
- Better future-proofing – Software and design tools constantly evolve, demanding more resources.
16GB RAM vs. 8GB and 6GB for Graphic Design
- 8GB RAM: Decent for light work, but may lag with large files. Read more.
- 6GB RAM: Barely sufficient for professional work. See why here.
Applications Working Best with 16GB RAM
Here’s a breakdown of popular design software and their performance with 16GB RAM:
Application Performance with 16GB RAM Adobe Photoshop Smooth performance with large PSD files and multitasking Adobe Illustrator Handles complex vector graphics and large artboards easily Adobe After Effects Efficient for video editing and motion graphics Adobe Premiere Pro Handles video editing tasks and renders without lag CorelDRAW Works well with large projects and high-resolution designs Blender Acceptable for 3D modeling and rendering with decent speeds AutoCAD Works well for complex CAD designs and multitasking Figma Runs multiple design files simultaneously without slowdowns
Additional Perspectives: How RAM Affects Creative Workflows
For teams collaborating on projects, 16GB RAM provides a better experience when sharing large design files or working with cloud-based tools like Figma or Google Drive. The additional memory ensures smooth file synchronization, quick access to shared documents, and a more fluid collaboration environment. As design teams work together in real time, having enough RAM helps avoid the frustration of slow or delayed processes.
Certain tasks, like 3D rendering or motion graphics, are particularly RAM-intensive. Designers working on animated videos, 3D modeling, or complex visual effects will benefit immensely from 16GB RAM. Even video editing, which involves handling multiple video tracks, high-resolution footage, and graphics, will run more efficiently with 16GB, significantly improving workflow and reducing render times.
As software like Adobe Creative Cloud continues to introduce new features, the demand for system resources increases. With 16GB RAM, you can comfortably take advantage of these advancements without needing to upgrade your hardware every couple of years. This future-proofing aspect makes 16GB a wise long-term investment, especially for professional designers who plan to use their machines for several years.
If you’re working on a tight budget, you may be considering 8GB or even 6GB RAM—but are those options viable? Find out in our breakdown.
