The video compares the performance of Star Citizen on systems with 16GB versus 32GB of RAM, demonstrating that the 32GB setup provides a smoother gaming experience with fewer frame drops and hitches, despite similar average frame rates. The presenter highlights that while 16GB is playable, it can lead to frustrating performance issues, particularly in resource-intensive areas, and advises players to consider their specific situations before deciding on an upgrade.
The video revisits the common question of whether 16GB or 32GB of RAM is better for playing Star Citizen, a topic that has been discussed previously. The presenter uses a minimum spec system, specifically an Intel i5 10400 and a GTX 1660, to conduct performance tests in the game. The video aims to provide insights into how RAM affects gameplay, particularly focusing on frame rates and frame time graphs. The comparison is particularly relevant for players currently using 16GB of RAM, as the findings could significantly impact their gaming experience.
The presenter explains the concept of page files and hard faults, which occur when the system runs out of physical memory and needs to swap data to the hard drive. Using resource monitoring tools, the video showcases how the 16GB system experiences higher physical memory usage and more frequent hard faults compared to the 32GB system, which has plenty of free memory available. This difference indicates that the 16GB setup struggles with memory compression and page file usage, leading to performance issues such as crashes, particularly in resource-intensive areas like cities.
Moving on to performance metrics, the video highlights that the 32GB RAM setup provides a noticeably better experience, particularly in terms of 1% low frame rates. While the average frame rates may not be significantly higher, the absence of large frame drops and spikes in the 32GB setup leads to a smoother gaming experience. The presenter emphasizes that the improvement is not necessarily due to increased speed but rather a reduction in performance drops caused by the limitations of the 16GB setup.
The video includes a comparison of frame time graphs, revealing substantial spikes in the 16GB system, with some reaching nearly 4,000 milliseconds. In contrast, the 32GB system shows a much more stable frame time, leading to fewer hitches and a smoother overall gameplay experience. This visual representation reinforces the idea that while 16GB is playable, it can result in frustrating performance issues, especially during demanding gameplay scenarios.
In conclusion, the presenter suggests that upgrading from 16GB to 32GB RAM can lead to a smoother experience in Star Citizen, primarily by reducing frame drops and hitches. However, for players on older or lower-end systems, the upgrade may not yield significant improvements in average performance. The video ultimately advises players to consider their specific situations and budget when deciding whether to upgrade their RAM or invest in a new system for a more substantial performance boost.