Microsoft boosts Windows 11 performance on 8 GB PCs amid memory crunch

Microsoft said on Tuesday it is 'raising the bar for 8 GB Windows 11 PCs' with memory-management changes that can make low-end machines up to 20 percent more responsive and 40 percent faster at multitasking. The changes follow renewed focus on memory optimization earlier this year and come as the company continues promoting Copilot+ PCs that require at least 16 GB of RAM amid a memory crunch linked to AI infrastructure demand.

Memory tweaks target everyday use

Windows 11 will now keep up to 2 GB more active data in memory before moving it to slower storage. It will also connect directly to Edge when the browser is already running in the background, allowing it to launch up to 33 percent faster. Microsoft apps are being made more efficient, with Teams able to enable Efficiency Mode by default on 8 GB machines and launch up to 20 percent faster.

Other changes include Widgets loading only when used instead of always being on, and Edge tabs going to sleep after 15 minutes by default instead of two hours. Microsoft said it is enabling third-party apps to use these tweaks as well.

Benchmarks and executive view

Microsoft cited commissioned research comparing 2026 Windows machines with 2021 models. A 2026 Dell XPS 13 with 8 GB of RAM performed about as well as a 2021 Dell XPS 13 with 16 GB across selected workloads. Microsoft said 'the complete PC, not memory capacity alone, shapes the experience.' Pavan Davuluri, Microsoft EVP of Windows and devices, wrote that 8 GB is a great fit for many everyday tasks, while demanding workloads such as 3D modeling, advanced video editing, or large-scale data processing benefit from 16 GB or more.

Revenue context

The changes come as Windows OEM and devices revenue fell 7 percent in Microsoft's Q4 2026 earnings in late July, even as the company reported broader cash gains. In fiscal Q1 2027, reported last week, adjusted earnings reached $36.4 billion, up 18 percent from the same period last year, while Windows OEM and devices revenue was down 22 percent. Hardware prices have shot up, leaving consumers and enterprises to stretch upgrade cycles.

How to get improvements

Users can find the latest improvements in 26H2, build 26300.9818 or later. Microsoft is also encouraging users to keep branded apps up to date, because some improvements arrive through app updates or through Microsoft Store.

Sources: The Register