how much ram do i need for multiple monitors

How Much Ram Do I Need for Multiple Monitors

Life’s confusing enough. 

And then you decide to use multiple monitors. 

Now, we understand that sometimes work demands something more from us. But things get confusing when you bring the RAM calculation to the equation. 

So, how much ram do I need for multiple monitors?

When running a multi-monitor setup, RAM doesn’t matter that much. RAM normally depends on how many programs you run.  What matters most is how good your graphics card is and if it can support multiple monitors. A modern graphics card with multiple HDMI or DVI ports can easily run multiple monitors.

We have discussed these in detail in this article. So stick with us till the end. We are sure that you’ll find your answer.

Let’s go dive right in.

RAM Requirements for Multiple Monitors

The requirements for multiple monitors doesn’t depend on RAM. When running a multiple monitor setup, the important factor to understand is your graphics card.

RAM Requirements for Multiple Monitors
Source: pcworld.com

If your graphics card supports a dual monitor or more, you can easily go for it. Other variables come into place to improve your user experience, such as RAM.

RAM is the place where the data is accessed by the CPU when necessary. Unlike the computer’s hard drive, the RAM only is used when an activity is conducted on the computer.

For a better user experience, more RAM is always beneficial. Sometimes people also use RAM optimized by AMD as well.

However, for a multiple monitor setup, 16GB RAM is more than enough. However, even with 8GB RAM, a multiple monitor setup can be used easily. So go with 8 gigs if you’re on a budget. 

How Much Ram Do I Need For 2 Monitors

S0 your question is how much ram for 2 monitors? 8GB to 16GB RAM is enough for most cases when it comes to a dual monitor setup.

For Single-Task: 

For a single task, the RAM requirement should be pretty low. 

Is 8GB Ram enough for dual monitor? 

Yes. An 8 gb ram is enough for dual monitoring. That is when you’re using light google surfing on  both of your monitors.

Even for heavy usage, the requirement shouldn’t be more than 8GB. In that case, you go with Patriot Signature Premium DDR4 8GB.

With this much RAM, you should be able to do most of your usual work on multiple monitors.

For Multitask :

Suppose you are gaming on one screen. On the other screen, you are watching a high-resolution video. The RAM requirement will increase depending on the applications used. So, now the question is is 16 GB ram enough for dual monitor?

For heavy multitasking on two monitors, 16GB RAM is kind of the way to go. However, stay aware of the compatibility. Such as you can’t use DDR 3 with ryzen. If you want a better performance overall, you can get TEAMGROUP T-Force Vulcan Z DDR4 16GB.

How Much RAM Do I Need for Three Monitors

For a triple monitor setup, 16GB to 32GB RAM is sufficient in most cases.

For Single-Task: 

Your RAM requirement will depend on the program that you are running at the moment. Even if you’re using 3 monitors for the same application, the RAM requirement won’t change.

For heavy usage on three monitors, 16GB RAM should be enough.

For Multitasking: 

If you are using 3 programs on your 3 monitors, your RAM consumption will increase. Depending on those programs.

If you wanna play different games on those monitors, 32GB of RAM should be sufficient. You can look at high performance 32 gigs for better performance.

Reliability is a big factor in choosing RAMs. In such a case, Corsair Vengeance LPX 32GB is a good shot. You can easily get it from amazon.

What about light multitasking? Like browsing Facebook on one, watching movies on one, and using Microsoft word on one. Well in that case, a 32 gb ram is not actually necessary. You can easily go with an 8 gb ram.

RAM Usage Per Games/ Programs

RAM consumption depends on how many applications you’re running. Not how many monitors you are using. Below we can see a few popular applications and games on how much RAM they consume. 

For programs:

  • Anaconda – 2GB 
  • Adobe Photoshop – 1.7GB to 3.2GB
  • Adobe Premiere Rush – 8GB
  • Microsoft Teams – 4GB (or higher)
  • Blender – 8GB
  • Adobe Premiere pro – 8GB

For games:

GameLow settingsMedium settingsHigh settings
The Witcher 32GB4GB6GB
Forza Horizon 58GB12GB16GB
Deathloop12GB14GB16GB
Valorant2GB3GB4GB
Dota 22GB3GB4GB

Other Factors for Multiple Monitors

There are other factors except for RAM when it comes to a multi-monitor setup. So it is important to know about these dual monitor requirements.

Graphics Card: 

The higher the video memory of the graphics card, the better the whole experience will be. A computer with more memory will show complex visuals at a faster rate.

Most modern graphics cards are capable of supporting and running a multi-monitor setup. You don’t need high performance GPUs like the 3090. You can easily run multiple monitors using GPU’s like the VisionTek Radeon 7750 SFF.

Another consideration is whether the graphics card has adequate HDMI or DVI ports. The majority of modern graphics cards include two HDMI ports with one DVI and VGA port.

This might differ from one card to the next. What if the monitor uses an HDMI port and only a VGA port is available? An adapter can be used to solve this problem. Such as the CO Meap VGA PCIe 8 Pin Connector Power Adapter.

When using multi-monitors, it’s also a good idea to update your graphic card’s drivers. Your multi-monitor setup might be hampered by outdated or faulty drivers.

Power Supply: 

PSU depends on the number (and type) of graphics cards you have. The number of displays you have has no impact on your power supply. 

With a 550W power supply, you’ll be just fine. However, while using multiple displays, keep an eye out for GPU cooling issues. In that case, the EVGA 550 W power supply is a reliable brand. Check latest price on amazon.

CPU/ Processor:

Multiple monitor setup is more dependent on the GPU rather than the CPU. More displays necessitate more VRAM.

Although this won’t have a significant impact on performance.

This is usually determined by how the monitor is connected. As well as whether it’s utilized in the mirror or extend mode. When linked to the GPU and in mirror mode, the additional load will be minor.

Using it in extended mode will put greater strain on the CPU. Connecting via USB will put even more strain on it – up to 10% of a low-power CPU.

What Should You Upgrade for a Multiple Monitor Setup?

A multiple monitor setup is definitely a huge advantage for a lot of factors. You can multitask without dropping a sweat!

For a multiple monitor setup, the graphics card holds more importance than RAM. Most modern computers have sufficient RAM to run a multiple monitor setup. 

However, an internal graphics card is not enough to run a multiple monitor setup. An external graphics card with multiple HDMI or DVI slots is necessary for this.

So while using a multi-monitor setup, you faced hardware-related problems. Getting a better graphics card will solve the problem. Be sure to check if the new graphics card has enough ports for a multiple monitor setup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can Multiple Monitors With Different Refresh Rates Work Together?

Multiple monitors with different refresh rates can work together. However, if you utilize high refresh displays and keep the 60Hz monitor as the secondary screen, you will certainly run into a problem: because of the secondary screen, the primary screen’s refresh rate will be limited to 60Hz as well.

Can Multiple Monitors With Different Resolutions Work Together?

It is not an issue for multiple displays with different resolutions to work together. It’s because Windows detects and configures them automatically. However, if you wish to use alternative resolutions for your multiple monitor setup, you can easily do so using the Settings app or graphics configuration software.

Do Multiple Monitors Slow Down A Computer?

A multi-monitor setup will not slow down a computer with a modern video card unless you are running demanding games and programs while viewing movies on both monitors, in which case the graphic card will be subjected to a slight additional load. As a result, the computer may slow down somewhat.

Conclusion

So now you have your answer to how much ram do i need for mulitple monitors?

You can just tell them that it depends on a graphics card. Whether it is a two or three-monitor setup, a good graphics card will get the job done.

As it depends on the quality of the graphics card, do enough research before buying one.

Good luck with your multiple monitor setup.

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