8GB vs 16GB RAM for 144Hz gaming: 16GB stops stutters in competitive shooters

8GB is the bare minimum for 144Hz in modern shooters like Fortnite and Apex, but background apps push it over the edge, causing system swapping and hitches. Upgrading to 16GB gives games room to breathe and keeps frame times consistent. Unless your CPU is very old, this is the single biggest upgrade for smoothness.