Apart from the CPU and GPU, RAM is undoubtedly one of the most important components that determine the performance of any laptop you choose. As you would know, RAM comes in different sizes depending on the laptop and its version you choose. For most lightweight multitasking requirements, such as editing documents, creating and managing spreadsheets, browsing the internet, and streaming content, 8 GB DDR4 RAM gets the job done.
The best part about laptops with 8 GB RAM is they are totally worth their value, especially if you are on a limited budget. They are neither underkill nor overkill for a mid-range budget. In this list of 10 best 8GB RAM laptops, we have included models that differ in pricing and hardware configuration. While exploring our varied selection, we are sure that you will find the right 8 GB RAM laptop that will help you make the most out of the budget that you put in.
Review of best 8GB RAM laptops
ASUS VivoBook 15 – best in budget
When it comes to packing a considerably powerful hardware configuration in an affordable price tag, ASUS knows best. Although there is no shortage of impressive laptops in the 8 GB RAM territory, the ASUS VivoBook 15 packs the biggest punch in terms of overall performance, modern design, and a premium look and feel. With its price tag that stays under the $500 mark, this model sure does come as one of the best 8GB RAM laptops in terms of affordability.
entry-level contender that gets every job done
Asus VivoBook 15 comes with a 10th generation Intel i3 2 core CPU which helps you crush everyday tasks such as editing photos and videos, multimedia tasks, and managing documents with its 2.0 GHz of base computing power. The CPU can clock all the way up to 3.4 GHz to push the boundaries of computing performance on this laptop.
An Intel UHD graphics integrated chipset complements the overall performance of the CPU. The 8 GB DDR4 RAM that is included helps this laptop excel in the mid-level multitasking department. The total memory capacity of this ASUS 8 GB RAM laptop maxes out at 12 GB. Unlike many affordable laptops, this model comes with 128 GB SSD storage which is more than enough to help you store all your work and entertainment essentials.
ASUS VivoBook 15 has a 15.6 inch full HD display with an 88% screen-to-body ratio. The thin bezel design of the display not only opens up a large viewing real estate but also gives this laptop a modern and sophisticated look.
Like other VivoBook models, this laptop has the proprietary Ergolift design which lifts the bottom panel to allow in more airflow. This model also comes with a host of ports including one USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type C port, one USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type A port, two USB 2.0 ports, one HDMI port, one microSD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Good CPU performance
- RAM upgradable to up to 12 GB
- Full-sized backlit keyboard
- Fairly lightweight chassis
- Good selection of ports
Cons:
- Integrated graphics chipset doesn’t equal dedicated GPUs
- Not the best display panel
- No ethernet port
Lenovo IdeaPad 3 – best audio
Laptops in Lenovo’s IdeaPad series have maintained a strong contender position over the years in the affordable pricing segment. Just like ASUS VivoBook 15, Lenovo IdeaPad 3 offers immense value without asking much in its price tag. This laptop brings an all-AMD hardware configuration in the 8 GB RAM territory with an uncompromised performance that holds its own.
built for crushing everyday lightweight tasks
Like ASUS VivoBook 15, Lenovo IdeaPad 3 deserves a good spot among other 8 GB RAM laptops in the affordable category with its AMD Ryzen 5 3500U 4 core processor that runs at a base speed of 2.10 GHz and can max out to 3.70 GHz.
The CPU is paired with AMD Radeon Vega 8 graphics which delivers the right amount of graphics processing performance for keeping up with all your everyday tasks such as streaming content, managing documents, using social media, and lightweight photo editing. This model comes with 8 GB DDR4 RAM which can be upgraded to up to 12 GB. 256 GB SSD storage joins the core hardware configuration of this laptop to help you store all your important documents, programs, and files and quickly access them when you need to.
Lenovo IdeaPad 3 offers a pleasant viewing experience with its 14 inch full HD display. Its narrow side bezel design opens up more viewing area which, in turn, eliminates visual clutter. Although the keyboard isn’t full-sized, its ergonomic layout and good key travel ensure a comfortable typing experience. For external connectivity options, this laptop includes two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A ports, one USB 2.0 Type A port, one HDMI port, one SD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- CPU and GPU specs outweigh the price
- RAM upgradable to up to 12 GB
- 60Hz refresh rate offers a pleasant viewing experience
- Physical webcam shutter
- Dolby Audio enhances audio performance
Cons:
- No ethernet port
- Upgrading RAM requires technical proficiency
- No backlighting on the keyboard
HP 15 – laptop with i5 processor and 8gb ram
Exploring your options in the 8 GB RAM territory doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to compromise on other aspects such as CPU performance, storage, accessibility, and overall user experience.
8 GB RAM models like HP 15 helps you get the best out of everything without having to break the bank. As one of the affordable laptops with i5 processor and 8 GB RAM, this model certainly comes as one of the best value-for-money options.
the quintessential for work & entertainment
The 10th generation Intel i5 2 core processor that HP 15 uses runs at a base frequency of 1.0 GHz and can crank up to 3.6 GHz of peak computing power. Intel UHD graphics integrated graphics chipset joins the CPU in helping the laptop deliver a reliable graphics processing performance that’s needed for lightweight work and entertainment-related requirements.
The laptop’s 8 GB DDR4 RAM provides adequate bandwidth for lightweight multitasking requirements. This model also comes included with 256 GB SSD storage which improves booting speed and file loading speed.
The 15.6 inch full HD display of HP 15 has an anti-glare panel that doesn’t tire your eyes when working for a sustained period of time. The display has a stunning 82% screen to body ratio which is made possible by the side thin bezel design. The battery provides 6 hours of backup for multimedia, 8 hours for wireless streaming, and up to 10 hours for mixed usage. One USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type C port, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type A ports, one HDMI port, one SD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack provide external connectivity options on this laptop.
Pros:
- Good CPU performance
- Upgradable SSD storage
- Good wireless connectivity performance
- Good battery backup
- Fairly lightweight chassis
Cons:
- RAM is not upgradable
- Can run hot under intensive loads
- Cooling fan can get a bit noisy during intensive usage
- Average build quality
LG Gram 14 – best lightweight
Just like HP 15, LG gram 14 makes its stand as a strong core i5 CPU performer among some of the best 8GB RAM laptops. Sure, the laptop does ask a bit more about this price tag. But it also brings with it a high-performance capability that backs you up for all your work and entertainment-related requirements. If you are a college student or frequently travel for work purposes, you cannot go wrong with this laptop as it has a lightweight chassis design.
lightweight chassis equipped with heavyweight performance
LG gram 14 gets 1.2 GHz of base computing power with its 10th generation Intel i5 4 core CPU. With the Intel Turbo boost, the CPU can deliver a maximum computing power of 3.7 GHz. This laptop uses Intel Iris Plus Graphics integrated graphics chipset to deliver a reliable graphics processing performance.
An 8 GB DDR4 dual-channel RAM comes included; while one channel is soldered, the other free slot can be upgraded to up to 16 GB to max out the RAM capacity at 20 GB. This laptop benefits from fast booting and file loading speed with its 256 GB SSD storage. This model also excels in the battery backup department with 18.5 hours of battery backup that helps you get through the day for lightweight requirements.
Although the full HD display of LG gram 14 is based on a 14 inch footprint, it’s thin bezel design opens up a large viewing space which helps you view all your work in progress in a clutter-free way.
Accessibility in this laptop is simply one of the best. The combo of an ergonomically-laid out backlit keyboard and wide trackpad help you get your work done with efficiency. One Thunderbolt 3 port, two USB 3.1 Type-A ports, one microSD card reader, one HDMI port, and one headphone/mic jack are included in this model.
Pros:
- Powerful CPU excels at lightweight and mid-level computing requirements
- Upgradable RAM and storage
- Ergonomic backlit keyboard
- One of the most lightweight chassis
- Good battery backup
Cons:
- No ethernet port
- Can heat up during intensive usage
- Limited port options
Dell Inspiron 15 5593 – best performance in budget
Dell’s Inspiron series has been synonymous with reliable performance and budget-friendly laptops over the years. Just like the rest of the models in the Inspiron series, Dell Inspiron 15 5593 packs a punch with powerful and reliable performance that’s not common in the mid-range pricing segment.
balanced performance at balanced pricing
A 10th generation Intel i5 4 core processor makes its way into the chassis of this Dell Inspiron 15 5593. The CPU runs at a base 1.0 GHz speed and can overclock up to 3.6 GHz of max computing power. Although not as powerful as discrete GPUs, this laptop’s Intel UHD Graphics integrated graphics chipset suffices for meeting everyday requirements such as working on spreadsheets, editing documents, managing files and folders, streaming content, and lightweight photo editing.
This model gives a tough competition to other core i5 8 GB RAM laptops in terms of upgradability as its 8 GB DDR4 RAM can be upgraded to up to a whopping 32 GB capacity. The addition of 256 GB SSD storage helps you quickly load all your documents, files, and programs which, in turn, helps you maintain your productivity at its best.
Dell Inspiron 15 5593 comes with a 15 inch full HD display that offers a comfortable viewing experience with its anti-glare LED panel. The full-size backlit keyboard helps you get your work done regardless of the ambient lighting condition that you are in.
This laptop also comes with versatile external connectivity options, including one USB 3 Type C port, one USB 2 Type-A port, two USB 3 Type-A ports, one ethernet port, one HDMI port, one SD card reader, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Powerful CPU performance
- RAM expandable to up to 32 GB
- Full-size backlit keyboard
- Sleek chassis
- Waves MaxxAudio Pro enhances audio performance
Cons:
- Presence of chassis flex
- Average battery backup
- Average build quality
- Can run hot at times
Acer Aspire 5 – best for upgrading
When it comes to choosing an affordable and cheap 8GB RAM laptop, there is often a common perception that you have to make compromises in one area or the other. However, things don’t have to be this way, especially when it comes to general-purpose laptops as brands like Acer offer immense value even at low pricing. The Acer Aspire 5 is an embodiment of this.
affordable yet powerful
Despite being an affordable laptop in the 8 GB RAM territory, Acer Aspire 5 packs a 10th generation Intel i5 4 core processor that powers it with 1.6 GHz of base computing power. Whenever needed, the CPU can overclock up to 4.2 GHz of max power. An Intel UHD graphics 620 integrated graphics chipset works together with the CPU to meet lightweight graphics-related requirements.
This Acer 8 GB RAM laptop includes the option of RAM upgradability to up to 20 GB; this helps you open up more multitasking bandwidth. Booting time and the file loading speed is uncompromised in this laptop, thanks to its 256 GB SSD storage that has fast read and write capability.Acer Aspire 15 comes with a 15.6 full HD display which offers an enjoyable viewing experience with Acer Color Intelligence technology. Also, the integration of Acer BlueLightShield technology keeps the risk of eye strain at bay. The full size backlit keyboard, in combination with a super-responsive trackpad, helps you get all of your work done in a jiffy. This model comes with a host of ports, including two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type A port (one supports power charging), one USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type C port, one USB 2.0 Type A port, one ethernet port, one HDMI port, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Fast CPU performance
- Good wireless connectivity performance
- Fingerprint reader improves security
- Upgradable RAM and SSD storage
- Full-sized backlit keyboard improve typing experience
Cons:
- No SD card reader
- Heats up during intensive usage
- Average battery life
Acer Nitro 5 – best budget gaming laptop
Getting your hands on a gaming laptop with 8 GB RAM may sound impractical, but it’s not. Acer makes it possible to have a mid-range gaming laptop with a considerably powerful hardware configuration at an affordable price tag with its Nitro 5 gaming laptop. Acer Nitro 5 has, in fact, become one of the most beloved affordable gaming laptops in the market today. It performs well for mid-level gaming requirements and certainly exceeds expectations for lightweight, everyday tasks.
a budget gaming performer
Acer Nitro 5 comes equipped with a 9th generation Intel i5 4 core CPU that delivers a base computing power of 2.4 GHz and can overclock to up to 4.1 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost technology. It’s amazing to see how Acer managed to include an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 GPU with 4GB DDR5 memory in this laptop despite the affordable price tag.
The discrete GPU, in combination with the CPU, helps this laptop excel at mid-level gaming requirements. The 8 GB DDR4 RAM that comes standard in this model can be upgraded to up to 16 GB. With 256 GB SSD storage included, you can store all your favorite games, entertainment essentials, and work-related files and quickly load them up.
Acer Nitro 5 garners attention with its modern, gaming-themed aesthetic appeal. The 15.6 inch full HD display of the laptop has a thin bezel design which seamlessly fuses with the overall look. The RGB backlighting of the laptops full-sized keyboard adds more gaming feel. For external connectivity options, this model includes one USB 3.1 Type C port, two USB 3.0 ports (one with power charging support), one ethernet port, one USB 2.0 Type A port, one HDMI port, and one headphone/mic jack.
Pros:
- Powerful CPU and GPU combo
- Upgradable RAM, SSD, and HDD storage
- Waves MaxxAudio Pro enhances audio performance
- RGB backlit keyboard enhance gaming experience
- Good selection of ports
Cons:
- Not the best gaming display
- No SD card reader
- Chassis is a bit bulky
- Weight is a bit on the heavier side
MSI GF63 – best in mid-range
Acer isn’t the only one to make it possible for you to get your hands on a powerful and reliable gaming laptop with 8 GB RAM in the affordable pricing segment. MSI is another brand that doesn’t shy away from packing a powerful gaming hardware configuration in a mid-range price tag. The MSI GF63 9RCX-818 is a testimony to this.
an unmistakable mid-range gaming machine
MSI GF63 9RCX-818 outcompetes other laptops in the 8 GB RAM territory with a 9th generation Intel i7 6 core processor. The multithreaded architecture of the CPU, combined with its computing performance which ranges from 2.6 GHz to 4.5 GHz, helps this laptop easily take on modern games such as Forza Horizon 3, Battlefield 1, GTA V, and Assassin’s Creed series. Further elevating the CPUs performance is the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050Ti GPU that has 4 GB DDR5 dedicated memory. Although this model comes included with an 8 GB DDR4 RAM, you can max out the RAM capacity to 64 GB. 256 GB SSD storage completes the core hardware configuration of this laptop.
The 15.6 inch full HD display of MSI GF63 9RCX-818 has 60 Hz refresh rate (which is considerably impressive given the affordable price tag that it comes with). Just like Acer Nitro 5, this laptop includes a red RGB backlighting on its keyboard that has an ergonomic layout. The dual fan thermal management system of this laptop works great in ensuring effective and power-efficient cooling. Three USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type C port, one HDMI port, one ethernet port, one headphone jack, and one mic jack provide external connectivity options in this laptop.
Pros:
- Powerful CPU and GPU combo
- Upgradable RAM and SSD storage
- Red RGB backlit keyboard
- Audio Boost improves audio performance
- Excellent SSD bootup speed
Cons:
- Upgrading SSD storage requires technical proficiency
- Fans get a bit noisy during intensive gaming
- Not the most responsive trackpad
- Can heat up under heavy loads
New Apple MacBook Air 13 inch – best budget variant in Mac
When it comes to maintaining your productivity at its best, Apple MacBook Airs come as an unmistakable choice. From crunching numbers to maintaining data sheets and editing different documents, MacBook Air models do not hold back in helping you make the most out of your productivity. The new MacBook Air 13 inch comes as a refinement over its predecessor and is definitely worth the budget you put in for it.
improvement in speak volumes
The new MacBook Air 13 inch gives some of the best 8GB RAM laptops a run for the money in terms of both work and entertainment-related requirements with its 10th generation Intel i5 4 core CPU. The CPU delivers a base computing power of 1.1 GHz and can crank up to 3.5 GHz of max speed paired with Intel Iris Plus Graphics integrated graphics chipset which suffices for lightweight graphic processing requirements.
An 8 GB DDR4 RAM comes standard in the base model which offers adequate multitasking bandwidth which helps you improve your productivity and efficiency. The base model also comes equipped with 256 GB SSD storage which you can use to store and have quick access to all your entertainment and work-related essentials.
The new MacBook Air 13 inch comes with an improved 13.3 inch retina display that delivers stunning visuals with True Tone technology. Further augmenting the immersive viewing experience of the display is the thin bezel design which opens up more viewing room.
This model comes with an improved keyboard that uses the scissor mechanism that ensures good key travel for a comfortable typing experience. Also, the addition of a super-responsive Touch ID improves the security and accessibility factor of this laptop. The base model comes with two Thunderbolt 3 ports that include support for display as well as charging.
Pros:
- Improved CPU and GPU performance
- Premium look and feel
- Sleek and lightweight chassis
- Improved keyboard
- Improved audio performance
Cons:
- Non-upgradable RAM and storage
- Limited port selection
- Average webcam
GIGABYTE AERO 17 – best allrounder
It’s totally okay to say that there are only a handful of laptops that can excel at multiple departments, including intensive gaming, entertainment, and work. GIGABYTE AERO 17 is one of those few models that meet all of your requirements while delivering uncompromised performance. This particular model deserves a good spot in the category of the best 8GB RAM laptops. But it also makes its stand in other categories such as high CPU and GPU performance, all-rounder performance, and top productivity laptops.
looks impressive, performs impressive
GIGABYTE AERO 17 packs a 9th generation Intel i7 6 core processor with which it gets 2.6 GHz of base computing power. With Intel Turbo Boost, the CPU is able to crank up to 4.5 GHz of max turbo speed. In the graphics processing department, this laptop packs come with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660Ti GPU that has a dedicated 6 GB DDR6 memory. An 8 GB DDR4 RAM is made available which can be upgraded to up to 64 GB, should you need more multitasking bandwidth in the future. For storage, this model includes 256 GB SSD storage capacity which helps you store all your work and entertainment essentials within quick reach.
The 17.3 inch full HD display is one of the biggest highlights of GIGABYTE AERO 17. The display has a stunning 144 Hz refresh rate which delivers life-like visuals. Also, the ultra-thin bezel design of the display further elevates the immersive viewing experience. The robust suite of ports of this laptop include one USB 3.1 Type C port, one Thunderbolt 3 port, three USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type A port, one SD card reader, one ethernet port, one HDMI port, one headphone jack, and one mic jack.
Pros:
- Powerful CPU and GPU combo
- Upgradable RAM and storage
- Impressive 144Hz display refresh rate
- Good selection of ports
- RGB backlit keyboard
Cons:
- Cooling fans get loud under heavy loads
- Decent battery backup
- Some bloatware may need to be removed
FAQs
1) Is 8 GB RAM enough in a laptop?
If you want a laptop for everyday lightweight tasks, then yes, 8 GB RAM does suffice for your requirement. Most modern laptops with 8 GB RAM are worth the purchase in terms of upgradability as well. You can upgrade the RAM to 16 GB, 32 GB, or all the way up to 64 GB if you need more multitasking bandwidth as your requirement changes over time.
2) Which RAM is best for laptops?
DDR4 RAM is the best for laptop as well as desktop rigs. There are several benefits that DDR4 RAM has over DDR3 RAM, including higher upgradability limit, higher clock speed, and more power efficiency.
3) Is an i3 RAM laptop with 8 GB RAM good?
Yes, a laptop with a core i3 CPU and 8 GB DDR4 RAM is good for lightweight requirements such as editing documents, managing spreadsheets, editing photos, streaming content, and online learning.
Conclusion
It’s a general fact that computer hardware requirement for almost everybody does not stay the same. While an 8 GB RAM capacity may be suitable for you today, you may have a higher multitasking requirement in the future as your work changes.
The same goes with SSD and HDD storage; you may need more storage capacity in the future. Therefore, it’s always a good step to choose a laptop that has upgradability options for both RAM and storage. Many modern laptops also include the option of upgrading wireless cards in case you need to improve wireless connectivity performance.