8GB vs 16GB RAM: 16GB fixes open-world stuttering

16GB is the floor for smooth open-world gaming in 2025. With 8GB, your system swaps to disk the moment Windows and a browser are open, causing hitches in games like GTA V and RDR2. 16GB gives the game room to breathe—RDR2 recommends 12GB but 16GB is the sweet spot. You don’t need 32GB unless you’re heavy into modding or streaming.