Do I really need 4GB of RAM and a quad-core processor for a new computer?

Question

I was reading through my local computer store's flyer, and there was a little tidbit of information about how to build a good gaming computer and it said I should get 4GB of RAM and a quad-core processor. I know you need a lot of ram and a good processor, but quad core? 4GB? How true is this?

Answer 1

The amount of RAM depends on which operating system you will be using. 32-bit OSs such as Windows XP can only fully address 3.12GBs of RAM. Therefore, you would have to have a 64-bit OS to realize full benefit from 4 gigs and there are only a limited number of games and other software that are written for 64-bit systems. Having 4 GBs is good for utilizing the dual channel memory capabilities of the newer systems however. So it would not hurt anything to have it.

Quad core processors are of course much faster and are great for handling multitasking projects. Gaming efficiency is also increased by them to some degree, but you will not realize much immediate effect because few games are currently available that will utilize the benefits. Most games are written within certain system parameters in mind. Unless, you are also doing other things while also playing, you will not realize much more additional benefits from quad core over dual core; especially when you factor in the cost difference.

Answer 2

Althou quads aren't real important now they will be shortly as the mutl-threaded games start coming out. As far as ram goes 2 GB is fine for an XP machine but for Vista you should have 4 GB if you really want to do hardcore gaming. Video games are dependant on 1--Video card 2--memory 3--cpu, in that order so a fast massive video card is the most important thing in gaming. Get at least a 640MB 8800GTS.
I have the XFX D4 which is the fastest GTS out and there is no lag whatsoever in Lost Planet running DX10 with 64bit Ultimate. Make sure you run a big PSU with lots of watts and amps on its +12V rails.

Answer 3

If you want a gaming system you should get the best you can afford. Ram is cheap now, 4gb is not unreasonable. For the processor you probably don't need the quad yet but will want it in the future. You also need a good video card.

Answer 4

I am not sure about the value of multi core (since most programs can not make full use of them).

However as far as RAM the more the better. RAM prices are low right now ($29 per gig at Microcenter online) so you should find a convenient place to get your 4GB and stock up for the future build.

Answer 5

well, 4GB may sound kinda ridiculous, but games nowadays do require alot of resources
and with Vista being the resource hog that it is, you need alot
if you have the money, i would get dual Athlon FXs, then upgrade to dual Phenoms when they come out
paired with a 8800 GTX or Ultra and 3-4GB DDR3 RAM, this rig would be amazingly awesome
but, for the regular gamer, i would get just 1 FX, at GTS 640MB, and about 3GB DDR2 RAM

Answer 6

Well, if you want a serious gaming computer that will still be up to scratch 3 years from now then yes, you'll want some real muscle in your machine, but if you only play older games then buy a simple budget PC for a lot less money.

Answer 7

construct one, then you are able to choose the failings that pass in it I actual have a twin center construct (with XP and 7) with 3GB and it value me decrease than 365GBP wich is about 583 USD wich is extremely lower priced. it might want to value slightly you extra, i replaced into utilizing old elements from my useless computing gadget (only the troublesome rigidity and CD rigidity are there now)

Answer 8

Just a comment here - i have a 64bit O/S and i have no problems running games created for 32bit O/S.