LOW RAM, and can´t enable Readyboost

How to Optimize Performance for Low RAM Systems While Gaming

Experiencing performance issues in memory-intensive games like BeamNG can be frustrating, especially when you’re dealing with limited RAM and can’t take advantage of features like ReadyBoost. If you find yourself in this situation, there’s still hope! Here are some strategies to optimize your system performance without the possibility of upgrading your hardware.

Understanding Your Situation

With only 12 GB of RAM, you might be fine for most tasks. However, games like BeamNG can be extremely demanding and may utilize your entire memory allotment. Since the RAM in your PC is soldered onto the motherboard, a physical upgrade isn’t feasible. It’s smart that you’ve sought out alternatives like a USB drive to potentially enhance your performance.

What is ReadyBoost?

ReadyBoost is a Windows feature that allows you to use a USB flash drive or SD card to help improve system performance by caching data. However, it’s important to note that this feature is designed mainly for systems with limited RAM (typically 2-4 GB). Since you have 12 GB, the system may not automatically offer you the option to use ReadyBoost, especially with demanding applications running in the background.

Why Can’t You Enable ReadyBoost?

To use ReadyBoost, your USB drive must meet certain criteria:

1. The drive should be at least 1 GB in size and have free space.
2. The drive must be fast enough (USB 2.0 drives may not qualify for ReadyBoost, despite being 2.0 compatible, opting instead for USB 3.0 or higher).
3. The drive must be formatted using NTFS or exFAT.

Since you’ve mentioned you’re using a 64 GB Samsung USB 3.2 drive formatted with NTFS, you’re on the right track. If you’re unable to find the ReadyBoost option, it might be due to the system detecting enough RAM to run without it.

Strategies to Manage Low RAM while Gaming

1. Close Background Applications: Before launching BeamNG, ensure that no unnecessary applications are running in the background. Use the Task Manager to see what’s consuming your RAM and end those processes.
2. Adjust In-Game Settings: Tweak the graphics settings of BeamNG. Lowering texture quality or disabling shadows can significantly reduce RAM use and improve performance.
3. Use a Lightweight Operating System: If feasible, consider running a lighter version of Windows or switching to an operating system better optimized for gaming performance, depending on the game’s compatibility.
4. Virtual Memory Settings: Increase your virtual memory (paging file size) to allow the computer to use disk space as additional RAM. While it’s not as fast as actual RAM, it can help in managing memory when playing demanding games.
5. Consider Game Optimization Tools: Programs like Razer Cortex can help you optimize your system for gaming by identifying and closing unnecessary apps while you play.
6. Regular Maintenance: Keep your system clean and routinely check for malware and unnecessary software that could be hogging resources.

Conclusion

While it’s disappointing that you can’t upgrade your RAM or utilize ReadyBoost effectively, implementing these strategies can help you enjoy BeamNG and other similar games with better performance. Optimizing your system may not replace additional RAM, but it can provide you with a much smoother gaming experience.