They do different jobs. System RAM gives Windows and your applications working space. Video memory, or VRAM, gives a dedicated graphics card space for the graphics data it needs. Both matter, but they aren’t a simple substitute for each other.

What does system RAM do?

RAM holds information your PC is actively using. Windows, your game, Discord, your browser and other open applications all make use of it. If you’re running short, the whole PC can feel less responsive, especially when switching between applications.

We’ve covered choosing between 16GB and 32GB in our gaming RAM guide. The right amount depends on your games and what else you run alongside them.

What does VRAM do?

A dedicated graphics card usually has its own video memory. The GPU uses that memory for graphics data such as textures and other assets needed to render a scene. AMD’s explanation of VRAM covers the role it plays in games.

Higher-resolution textures and more demanding settings can require more graphics memory, although usage varies by game and configuration. If a particular game runs into a video-memory limit, reducing texture quality or other demanding settings may help. It’s worth checking the game’s recommendations and reliable tests for the settings you want to use.

Does more VRAM always mean a faster graphics card?

No. VRAM capacity is one part of the picture. The GPU itself, memory bandwidth, power limits, cooling and the game all matter too. A card with a larger VRAM number isn’t automatically the better gaming card, so compare the complete model and real-world performance in the games you play.

What about integrated graphics?

Many PCs use graphics built into the processor rather than a separate graphics card. These integrated graphics typically share system RAM. That means the way memory is configured can matter to both the system and graphics performance. Intel explains the difference between integrated and discrete graphics.

Exact behaviour varies by device. Before upgrading a laptop or desktop, check its specifications: some memory is upgradeable, while some is soldered or otherwise restricted.

How do I check my PC?

In Windows, open Task Manager with Ctrl + Shift + Esc and select Performance. The Memory section shows system memory, while the GPU section can show dedicated and shared GPU memory. Labels and availability can vary by system and Windows version.

Those figures are useful clues, not a diagnosis by themselves. Slowdowns can also come from the CPU, GPU, storage, temperatures, settings or background software.

The Chaos verdict

Buying or upgrading? Start with the games and applications you use, your target resolution and your budget. Check both system RAM and the complete graphics card specification, rather than choosing on one number alone.

Not sure what’s inside your PC or which upgrade makes sense? The Chaos workshop can help you assess it.

Further reading

• AMD: Video memory and gaming
• Intel: Integrated and discrete graphics

The post VRAM vs RAM: What’s the Difference for Gaming? appeared first on Chaos Computers.

The short answer: 16GB can still be enough, especially if your games run comfortably and you’re not doing much else at the same time. 32GB gives you more breathing room for demanding games, streaming, creative work and multitasking. The right choice depends on what you play and what else your PC is doing.

What does RAM actually do?

RAM is your computer’s short-term working space. It holds data your system and applications need while they’re running. It isn’t the same thing as the storage space on your SSD, and it isn’t the same as the video memory on your graphics card.

When your system runs short of RAM, it may have to rely more heavily on storage as temporary working space. That can make switching between apps or loading things feel slower. More RAM helps when you’re running out of it; it won’t automatically turn a struggling graphics card into a faster one.

When 16GB still makes sense

If you mostly play less demanding games, close unnecessary apps while you play, and your system feels responsive, there’s no need to upgrade just because someone on the internet says you must.

Check the recommended requirements for the games you actually play. If they fit comfortably within your setup and you aren’t experiencing problems, your money might be better spent elsewhere—or kept in your pocket.

When 32GB is worth considering

32GB is a sensible option if you play demanding newer games, keep plenty of apps open, stream while gaming, or use the same PC for heavier creative work. Kingston’s gaming memory guide recommends 32GB for modern gaming and multitasking; your actual needs will depend on the games and software you use.

It’s also worth considering when buying a laptop whose memory cannot be upgraded later. Some laptops have soldered RAM, while others have upgrade slots, so check the exact model before you buy.

How to check if you’re running low

On Windows, open Task Manager with Ctrl + Shift + Esc, then choose Performance → Memory. Keep it open while you use your PC as you normally would: run your game and the apps you usually have open.

If memory use is consistently close to the available capacity and your system feels sluggish when switching apps, more RAM may help. High memory use alone doesn’t prove RAM is the cause of a problem, though. Storage health, temperatures, the CPU, the graphics card and software can all play a part.

Before you buy: check compatibility

Not every stick of RAM fits every computer. Check your motherboard or laptop model, supported memory generation, capacity limits, available slots and recommended configurations. DDR4 and DDR5 are different standards and aren’t interchangeable.

If you’re adding memory to an existing system, compatibility matters too. A matched kit can make selection simpler, but the right choice depends on the machine. And on a laptop, first make sure the RAM can actually be upgraded.

The Chaos verdict

Already on 16GB and happy? Keep playing. Check your usage before spending money.

Building a new gaming PC, multitasking heavily or streaming? 32GB is a sensible amount to consider, depending on your budget and the rest of the build.

Not sure what your machine supports? Talk to the Chaos workshop and we’ll help you check your upgrade options.

Sources

• Kingston: How Much Memory Do You Need for Gaming?
• Kingston: How to Choose the Right Gaming Laptop
• AMD: Stepping into PC Gaming—Mid-range PCs

The post Is 16GB of RAM Still Enough for Gaming in 2026? appeared first on Chaos Computers.

Pay now or spread the cost

Our payment options page brings together the available providers, including Happy Pay, Payflex, PayJustNow, Float, Mobicred, RCS and FeverTree. Choose an available method at checkout and follow the provider’s steps.

Options and repayment terms vary by provider and order. Credit and instalment plans may be subject to eligibility, affordability checks, available credit and approval. Check the final amount, fees, interest and repayment schedule before confirming.

Which option is right for you?

Look at the total cost and the repayment dates, rather than just the instalment amount. For a larger purchase, a monthly finance plan may be worth comparing with shorter split-payment options. If you prefer to pay upfront, explore the payment methods shown at checkout.

Explore all payment options →

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This page previously shared a 2025 B-BBEE affidavit. Please contact us to confirm the current status and request the latest document before relying on it.

Chat on WhatsApp · sales@chaoscomputers.co.za · 021 762 5651

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Empower Your Final Quest with MSI – Get up to $100 in Steam Credit!

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Can your PC run Windows 11?

First, check your exact device against Microsoft’s Windows 11 requirements. Windows Update or Microsoft’s PC Health Check can help you see whether your PC is eligible. Back up important files before making a major system change.

Need more time?

Microsoft offers a Consumer Extended Security Updates programme for eligible Windows 10 devices. It provides critical and important security updates through 12 October 2027, but it doesn’t add new Windows features or ordinary technical support. Eligibility and enrolment terms apply; check Microsoft’s current ESU information.

Some business and long-term servicing editions follow different support timelines. Check the edition and version on your device before deciding.

Repair, upgrade or replace?

A slower computer isn’t automatically ready for retirement. An assessment can help you understand whether storage, memory or another issue is affecting it—and whether the machine meets Windows 11 requirements. Some systems won’t be eligible, even with a basic hardware upgrade.

Not sure where to start? Ask the Chaos workshop about an assessment. We’ll help you understand the options for your machine.

Source: Microsoft: Windows 10 support has ended.

The post Windows 10 Support Has Ended: What Are Your Options? appeared first on Chaos Computers.

AMD Unveils Next-Generation AMD RDNA 4 Architecture with the Launch of AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series Graphics Cards

– The new AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series graphics cards deliver enthusiast-level gaming experiences supercharged by AI –

AMD unveiled the highly-anticipated AMD RDNA 4 graphics architecture with the launch of the AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 graphics cards as a part of the Radeon RX 9000 Series. The new graphics cards feature 16GB of memory and extensive improvements designed for high-quality gaming graphics, including re-vamped raytracing accelerators and powerful AI accelerators for ultra-fast, cutting-edge performance, and breakthrough gaming experiences.

The RX 9000 Series, powered by the new AMD RDNA 4 architecture, offers gamers and creators a powerful blend of performance, visuals, and value. These advanced graphics cards redefine incredibly fast, high-resolution gaming with third-generation raytracing technology enabling realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections to deliver immersive gaming experiences while integrating a suite of AMD features to maximize hardware utilization. Beyond gaming, the RX 9000 Series GPUs leverage new second-generation AI accelerators with up to 8x INT8 throughput per AI accelerator (for sparse matrices) to enhance creative applications and effectively run generative AI applications (vs. RDNA 3). The RX 9000 Series GPUs also implement the newly redesigned AMD Radiance Display Engine & Enhanced Media Engine for broad display support and elevated quality in both recording and streaming.

ALL YOU NEED FOR ULTRA-FAST GAMING

Speed, performance, and visuals work together for smooth frames and total immersion. The ultra-fast Radeon RX 9000 Series Graphics are powered by unified AMD RDNA 4 compute units with enhanced raytracing capabilities for an ultra-immersive experience across all key gaming resolutions. Activate AMD HYPR-RX6 to instantly enable all supported performance boosting and latency reducing technologies across thousands of your favorite games. Enjoy high-quality, AI-powered upscaling with AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution 41, delivering an immersive gaming experience now and for years to come.

SUPERPOWERED VISUALS ENHANCED WITH AI

Get immersed in the action of lifelike visuals with next-gen raytracing. Play in perfect clarity with higher quality, AI-powered AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution 4¹ image upscaling with advanced frame generation in supported games. Put your skills on full display with enhanced multimedia and streaming experiences with the AMD Radiance Display Engine.

INSTANT PERFORMANCE FOR EVERY MOVE

Take the instant performance of AMD Radeon to an even higher level with the superpower of AMD Software. Enable AMD HYPR-RX⁶ in one click to unleash the true potential of your Radeon GPU, leveraging the combined forces of AMD Radeon Super Resolution¹, AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2, AMD Radeon Anti-Lag and AMD Radeon Boost. UX with dependable drivers and day zero game support will ensure game optimizations are ready to go to deliver high frame rates, sharper visuals, and low latency for thousands of gaming experiences that await.

FUTURE READY TECH WITH AI

AMD Radeon delivers all you need to keep your system feeling fast for years to come. Pair it with AMD Ryzen 9000 series processors featuring PCI Express® Gen 5 support and the latest AMD Smart Access Memory technology³ to realize the full performance of your AM5 platform. Harness both Radeon and Ryzen AI-enabled technologies, and upgrade to next generation displays with DisplayPort 2.1 support, and up to 16GB of video memory to experience AAA games in all their visual glory, now and for years to come.

Supporting Resources
Learn more AMD Radeon Graphics cards here
Learn about RDNA 4 here
Learn more about AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution here
Follow AMD on LinkedIn
Follow AMD on X

The post AMD Unveils Next-Generation AMD RDNA™ 4 Architecture with the Launch of AMD Radeon™ RX 9000 Series Graphics Cards appeared first on Chaos Computers.

Intel Launches Intel Core 14th Gen Desktop Processors for Enthusiasts

What’s New: 
Today, Intel launched the new Intel® Core 14th Generation desktop processor family, led by the Intel® Core i9-14900K. This latest-generation desktop processor family includes six new unlocked desktop processors at launch, delivering up to 24 cores and 32 threads and up to 6 GHz of frequency right out of the box. Additionally, the Intel® Core i7-14700K arrives with 20 cores and 28 threads thanks to four more Efficient-cores (E-cores) compared with the prior generation. And Intel’s Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU) now features the new AI Assist feature, bringing one-click AI-guided overclocking to select unlocked Intel Core 14th Gen desktop processors.

Why It Matters:
 The role of the CPU in gaming and creating has never been more important. Intel Core 14th Gen desktop processors – powered by Intel’s advanced performance hybrid architecture – give PC enthusiasts the compute performance they need without compromising user workflow.

At the top of the Intel Core 14th Gen desktop processor stack, the i9-14900K – the world’s fastest desktop processor with 6 GHz speeds right out of the box – gives gamers the edge they need to stay on top. And with 25% more cores in the i7-14700K, creators will enjoy significant performance gains in their multi-threaded workloads. Combined with the world’s best overclocking experience and compatibility with existing 600/700-series motherboards, Intel Core 14th Gen desktop processors deliver the computing power and performance enthusiasts require.

About the World’s Best Desktop Experience: 
With faster clock speeds up and down the processor stack – led by the flagship i9-14900K’s 6 GHz turbo frequencies – the Intel Core 14th Gen desktop processor family powers the world’s best desktop experience for enthusiasts.

Intel’s advanced performance hybrid architecture continues to deliver the compute performance enthusiasts demand in their day-to-day workflows:

•The Ultimate Gaming Platform: 
Intel Core 14th Gen processors power an immersive gaming experience with up to 23% gaming performance uplift compared to leading competitor processors, while new gaming-focused features like Intel® Application Optimization (APO) ensure better-than-ever application threading alongside existing Intel® Thread Director application thread scheduling^6,7.

• Continued Overclocking Leadership: 
Intel Core 14th Gen unlocked processors continue to offer an unparalleled overclocking experience for everyone – from experts to beginners. Latest-generation unlocked desktop processors now include the new Intel® XTU AI Assist feature for AI guided overclocking, as well as support for DDR5 XMP speeds well beyond 8,000 megatransfers/second (MT/S).

• Best-in-Class Connectivity:
Intel’s latest desktop processor family comes equipped with integrated support for Wi-Fi 6/6E and Bluetooth® 5.3, as well as discrete support for new Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 wireless technologies. Additionally, Intel Core 14th Gen desktop processors include support for Thunderbolt 4 as well as upcoming Thunderbolt 5 wired connectivity – supporting up to 80 Gbps of bi-directional bandwidth.

• Compatibility with 600/700-series Chipsets: 
Intel Core 14th Gen desktop processors remain compatible with both Intel 600 and 700 series chipsets, giving enthusiasts the ability to easily upgrade their existing systems and enjoy latest-generation gaming and creator performance.

When It is Available: Intel Core 14th Gen desktop processors will be available at retail outlets and via OEM partner systems starting Oct. 17, 2023.

More Context: Intel Core 14th Gen Desktop (Product Brief) | Intel Core 14th Gen S-Series Processors (Media Presentation) | How AI Assist Uses Machine Learning to Make Overclocking Easy (Talking Tech Video) | How Wi-Fi 7 Is Faster, More Reliable and Secure (Talking Tech Video)

The post Intel Launches Intel Core 14th Gen Desktop Processors for Enthusiasts appeared first on Chaos Computers.

What is Wi-Fi 6?

Wi-Fi 6, also called 802.11ax, is a wireless networking standard designed to improve efficiency and performance, particularly when lots of compatible devices share a network. Your router and connected devices all play a part in what you experience.

Where can it help?

A Wi-Fi 6 router may be useful in a busy home with phones, laptops, smart TVs and other devices competing for airtime. Compatible devices can take advantage of newer features, but actual speed depends on the hardware, distance, interference and your internet connection.

Will it fix poor coverage?

Not necessarily. Walls, router placement and interference can still cause weak spots. If the signal struggles to reach a room, a better router position, a wired access point or a suitable mesh setup may be more useful than changing the Wi-Fi standard alone.

Should you upgrade?

If your current network is reliable and meets your needs, there’s no rush. If it struggles with multiple devices or your router is due for replacement, Wi-Fi 6 is worth considering alongside newer options. Check device compatibility and your home layout before choosing.

Explore networking products or contact the Chaos team for help choosing a setup.

Watch the original Wi-Fi 6 video →

The post Wi-Fi 6: Is It Worth Upgrading Your Home Network? appeared first on Chaos Computers.

At Chaos Computers, we’re passionate about gaming, IT and the people who make the local scene what it is. We want to see South African gamers, creators and tech enthusiasts develop their skills and reach their goals.

Growing the community

We believe local businesses can play a part in supporting gamers and content creators. Our vision is to contribute to a welcoming community where people can learn, share what they know and enjoy the technology they love.

Whether you’re putting together your first PC, improving your setup or exploring content creation, we’re here to help you find a way forward.

The post Our Vision appeared first on Chaos Computers.