Can you feel 16GB of RAM versus 8GB in light tasks?

[powerbook911]

On the machines I have used before and after 4GB to 8GB upgrades, I have felt the difference, even when the machines had SSDs. Applications opened boom with 8GB, a tick delay with 4GB.

Would normal things like that, opening apps, etc. be even faster with 16GB, or does it reach a limit of speed around 8GB?

I realize certain applications can truly benefit from 16GB of ram, but as of this time I am fairly light user. Still, if even simple light things would be quicker with 16GB, such as opening apps, files, etc. I would go for it.

I've certainly seen 4GB to 8GB is noticeable even if you're opening the first app on the system. Indeed, I was surprised by this.

Thanks for your advice.

 

[roberthallin]

Wether or not you're going to notice a difference depends on how much ram the programs you run use. Startup time for apps is much more dependant on your storage disk than the ram.

https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/1756865/

 

[maflynn]

For most typical tasks, 16GB won't be noticeable, it will be mostly unused.

If you use some pro apps, or virtualization (especially multiple VMs) then you'll start to see the advantages of 16GB of ram.

 

[whiteatom]

Noticed now, not likely. In 2 years time though? I'd say yes it will be. Because my rMBP is not easily upgradable, I bought the 16Gigs just for future proofing. Do I need it, maybe.. I do a fair bit of photoshopping and often have 15-20 apps open at once, but it makes me feel better about the longevity of the machine.