RAM shortened for Random Access Memory , or simply called it PC's memory is one of the most significant parts of a computer or laptop. People don't know how much RAM they really need. PCs today are installed with RAM ranging around two gigabytes to 16GB or more. 

There are two factors to consider on how much memory a computer really requires. One is what does a person want to do with the PC and the other is how much an individual is willing to spend for it. The same goes to the computers running a desktop operating systems like Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, or Chrome OS.

Here's an introduction of RAM: It is the solid state or mechanical hard drive often confused as the PC's memory capacity, and manufacturers or retailers even mix up these terms.

Here is a simple comparison between memory and storage;  we can consider illustrating a 'desk' for it. If the top of the desk is the RAM, the bigger the desk is, the more papers can be spread out and read at once. The desk drawers are the Hard drives or the storage, used to store the papers that are not in use.

RAM can handle programs simultaneously if a PC has more RAM installed. If a system unit has a very small amount of RAM, technically it can still open dozens of programs at once but it will slow the system down.

The system might feel like it's performing faster with more RAM in it, actually a faster CPU (Central Processing Unit) can increase its processing speed as well. The desk drawers or the hard drive or solid state drive are used for.

Upgrading RAM from 4GB to 8GB usually costs about $100 from the manufacturer, and pairing it with a faster processor or bigger storage drive can be more expensive.

Desktops' RAM is less expensive compared to RAM for tablets or laptops. The comfortable middle ground of RAM for desktops is 8 gigabytes - but a person may have to consider upgrading to 12 or 16GB - if it is the primary work machine, Office documents, and especially for intense programs or using multiple browser tabs.