MacBooks and RAM: Is 8GB Really Enough?
For years, Apple has insisted that 8GB of RAM is plenty for a MacBook. But if that’s true, why did they quietly upgrade all their base models to 16GB RAM with the latest M4 chips?
Let’s break it down.
Apple’s 8GB Claim: Enough or Just Marketing?
Back in 2023, Apple’s VP of Worldwide Product Marketing, Bob Borchers, made a bold claim:
"8GB on an M3 MacBook Pro is probably analogous to 16GB on other systems."
In other words, Apple was saying that their unified memory system made 8GB feel like more. And to be fair, Apple’s RAM is more efficient than what you’d find on a typical Windows laptop.
But here’s the thing—efficiency can only take you so far. As apps get more demanding, that 8GB limit starts to show, especially if you're a power user.
Real-World Use: Where 8GB Falls Short
Sure, 8GB is fine if you're just browsing the web, checking emails, and streaming Netflix. But the moment you:
Open dozens of Chrome tabs (you know you do)
Run Photoshop, Premiere Pro, or Xcode
Use AI tools or Apple Intelligence features
Multitask like crazy
…your Mac is gonna start struggling.
Instead of running smoothly, it’ll rely on swap memory (a fancy way of saying it uses your SSD as extra RAM). And while Apple’s SSDs are fast, they’re not as fast as actual RAM. This can make your Mac feel sluggish over time.
The M4 Upgrade: Apple Finally Listened
So, if 8GB was supposedly enough, why did Apple double the base RAM to 16GB with the latest M4 MacBooks?
The answer is simple: Because 8GB isn't enough anymore.
With Apple Intelligence (their AI-powered features) rolling out soon, Macs need more memory to keep up. Instead of arguing that 8GB is fine, Apple just… stopped selling base models with 8GB altogether.
So, Should You Buy a 16GB MacBook?
Short answer: Yes, absolutely.
Whether you’re a casual user or a professional, 16GB is the better long-term investment. It ensures your Mac stays fast and future-proof for years to come.
If you already have an 8GB MacBook, don’t panic—it’ll still work fine for basic tasks. But if you're buying a new Mac in 2024, get at least 16GB RAM. Your future self will thank you.
What Do You Think?
Have you ever struggled with an 8GB MacBook? Or do you think Apple was right all along? Let’s talk in the comments!
