The RAM of Android phones is one of the most important aspects when choosing a device that offers agile performance and meets the demands of everyday use. If you're thinking about upgrading your smartphone and don't know how much RAM is right for you, here you'll find a detailed explanation to help you make the right decision. This article provides an in-depth analysis of what RAM is, how it affects performance, the differences between types and capacities, as well as specific recommendations for each user profile. All this with an updated and realistic approach, taking into account current trends, the emergence of new technologies such as AI in mobile phones, and manufacturers' strategies.
RAM isn't just another number on your phone's spec sheet; it's a key component that determines the user experience. From the fluidity of switching apps to the speed with which your device responds to its lifespan, RAM is the key to making your phone a powerful ally or a frustrating machine. Understanding its function, its limitations, and how to get the most out of it is essential before purchasing or upgrading your phone.
What is RAM and why is it crucial in an Android phone?
RAM stands for random access memory, in Spanish, random access memory. This memory acts as a temporary working space where the Android operating system, apps, and the phone's own services store and manage data ultra-fast during operation. Unlike internal storage, RAM is volatile: it is emptied every time the device is turned off or restarted., thus allowing the system to be freed from old processes or data and start from scratch.
What is RAM actually used for? It helps apps open and run quickly, as data is loaded directly into this fast space, avoiding having to go to the main storage, which is much slower. The larger the storage, the more apps and processes can be active simultaneously without slowing down the phone or closing background apps to free up resources. This explains why phones with little RAM tend to get stuck or "kick" applications out of memory that then have to be reloaded.
How to check the RAM memory of your Android phone
If you're curious to know how much RAM your phone has, you can check it from the device's own settings. Typically, this information is found in Settings > About phone, System, or About phone.The exact name may vary depending on the manufacturer or customization layer, but there's always a section that displays the total amount of RAM installed.
Some brands, like Xiaomi with HyperOS, make it easy to check the RAM and its usage through very accessible paths in the settings: just go to 'About phone', access 'Detailed information and specifications' and locate the RAM memory data. You can even use the search box in settings and enter 'RAM' to find it immediately..
Optionally, if you want to see how much RAM is used in real time or which apps are consuming the most memory, you can enable developer options (by repeatedly tapping the system build number) and use the 'Memory' or 'Running' menus. For even more detailed information, apps like CPU-Z They are available for free on Google Play and allow you to analyze the hardware and memory status of your smartphone in detail.
Types of RAM in smartphones: what's the difference?
RAM is not all the same; there are different generations and technologies., which vary in speed and energy efficiency. Currently, the most common types are the following:
- L: This is the most basic version and is commonly found on entry-level and some mid-range phones. It offers capacities of up to 32 GB and transfer speeds of around 4266 Mbps.
- LPDDR4X: Improves efficiency and maintains speed, supporting larger capacities (up to 96 GB), which has made it very popular in mid-range and mid-high-end mobile phones.
- L: Present in high-end models, its speed is considerably higher (up to 6400 Mbps) and reduces energy consumption by around 30% compared to previous generations.
- LPDDR5X: This is the latest evolution, still limited to premium devices or certain advanced ranges, with a special focus on efficiency and speeds (up to 6400 MT/s or more) for AI applications, augmented reality or professional environments.
In general terms, The newer and faster the RAM, the better the mobile's performance will be. and greater energy efficiency, although its impact is most noticeable in intensive tasks such as gaming or video editing.
How much RAM is right for an Android phone today?
The key question. The answer depends a lot on your usage profile, but also on the current demands of the operating system, compatibility with applications and AI services that are being incorporated.It's no longer enough to focus on what was "working" three or four years ago: apps require more resources, the Android system is more complex, and what was sufficient yesterday may not be enough today.
Basic users (calls, WhatsApp, social networks, few apps in the background)
If you're using it very simply, you can get by with 4GB of RAM, although you'll likely experience lag, frequent app reloads, and some fatigue if you have a lot of apps open. This amount is only recommended for low-end phones and very basic tasks.
Average user (browsing, streaming, networking, light multitasking, some gaming)
The current standard is 6 GB or even 8 GB.
With this capability, your system will run smoothly, you'll be able to switch between multiple apps without any issues, and you'll have room for more demanding occasional tasks or to keep your phone from becoming outdated too quickly.
Demanding users (gaming, editing, AI, advanced multitasking)
If you're someone who uses your phone heavily, plays heavy games, edits videos, or tends to have a lot of apps running, it's recommended to start with 8 GB and, if your budget allows, consider models with 12 GB or more. AI features like Gemini or advanced image processing are becoming increasingly resource-intensive., and only phones with plenty of RAM can handle several of these tasks simultaneously.
High-end and 'pro' (brutal multitasking, AI, future-proof)
For those seeking maximum performance and a device that will last for years, there are options with 16 GB or even more. Currently, there are no apps that truly require that amount, but they serve to ensure full fluidity, although it's not always an essential investment.
Why isn't it worth it to fall short on RAM?
Choosing a phone with little RAM may seem like a way to save money, but it's a big mistake if you want your device to last and run smoothly. When the system runs out of RAM, it should shut down apps to free up space or resort to virtual memory (based on storage), which is much slower and not at all recommended as a substitute for physical RAM.Furthermore, phones with limited memory are doomed to have a shorter lifespan and tend to become obsolete sooner, as Android updates and apps demand ever-increasing resources.
What are the limits of the hardware and how far should we go?
Not all mobile phones support physical RAM expansion. Unlike a computer, in smartphones the RAM memory is integrated into the board and cannot be changed or increased physically. after purchase. That's why it's so important to choose the right one from the start. Some manufacturers offer the option of enable virtual RAM, which uses part of the internal storage as auxiliary memory. However, while it can help keep more apps open, this method is much slower, uses up storage, and has limited effect.
The only effective upgrade is to choose a model with more RAM from the start. If you notice that your phone is slow or unresponsive, even with virtual memory enabled, it's wisest to consider upgrading your device before the user experience becomes a nightmare.
How does the passage of time and use affect RAM?
With use and the passage of time, RAM memory can be affected, not so much by physical deterioration (which is rare), but because New versions of Android, more modern apps and background services tend to require more and more memory.The operating system itself uses techniques like RAM data compression (zRAM) to optimize resources, but even so, if you run out of resources, you'll experience increasing slowness, app crashes, and a lack of fluidity.
Additionally, intensive use of virtual RAM can accelerate internal storage wear, which can eventually lead to device failure. Overheating and high temperatures in summer can also reduce the performance of RAM and the mobile in general..
How to choose the ideal amount of RAM according to the type of user?
- If you use your phone only for the basics (calls, messages, social networks, occasional photos), you can opt for 4 GB, although if your budget allows, 6 GB is the base to avoid running out soon.
- For standard users who want a fast and durable mobile phone8 GB is the most recommended size. It allows for fluidity, multitasking, and room for new apps or future updates, and is often associated with phones with good storage.
- If you are an advanced user (whether you like to play games, edit photos or videos, work on your phone, or try out the latest AI features), aim for 12GB or more to ensure your device responds in any situation and doesn't become obsolete soon.
Knowing how much RAM your mobile device needs is key to choosing the best device for your needs. Share this guide and help others get a device that suits their needs..
