Ryujinx is an awesome emulator for playing Nintendo Switch games on a PC. But to run it smoothly, you need enough RAM. So how much RAM is actually needed? Let’s find out!
Minimum vs. Recommended RAM
Not all PCs are the same. Depending on your setup, you might need more or less RAM.
- Minimum requirement: 8GB RAM
- Recommended amount: 16GB RAM
If you only have 8GB, you might run into slowdowns, crashes, or lag in heavier games. But with 16GB, most games will run smoothly.
Why Does RAM Matter?
RAM (Random Access Memory) is your computer’s short-term memory. When you run a game on Ryujinx, it loads assets, textures, and calculations into RAM for quick access.
If you have too little RAM, your computer has to use slower storage (like your hard drive or SSD) to compensate. This can make games choppy.
Game-Specific RAM Needs
Not all Switch games require the same amount of RAM. Simple 2D games like Celeste or Stardew Valley use less, while big open-world games like Breath of the Wild or Xenoblade Chronicles demand more.
- For small indie games: 8GB RAM might be enough.
- For medium-sized games: 12GB or more recommended.
- For big AAA games with open worlds: 16GB RAM is ideal.
What If You Have More Than 16GB?
Great! Having 32GB or more can help if you run multiple things at once, like streaming while playing. But for just emulation, 16GB is usually the sweet spot.
Other Factors That Affect Performance
RAM is important, but it’s not everything. Here are other key factors:
- CPU: A strong processor helps Ryujinx run better.
- GPU: A good graphics card improves visuals and performance.
- Storage: An SSD is faster than a traditional hard drive.
How to Check Your RAM
Not sure how much RAM your PC has? Here’s how to check:
- Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, then go to the Performance tab.
- Mac: Click the Apple menu , then About This Mac.
- Linux: Open a terminal and type:
free -h
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to use Ryujinx, aim for at least 16GB of RAM for the best experience. If you only have 8GB, you can still play, but expect some slowdowns in bigger games.
Want even smoother gameplay? Pair your RAM with a fast CPU and GPU!
Time to fire up Ryujinx and enjoy some Switch games on PC!
