What is the maximum ReadyBoost size?
ReadyBoost is a fantastic feature in Windows that enhances system performance by using memory-intensive tasks like disk scrubbing, garbage collection, and other applications that would otherwise slow down your machine. But one question we often get is: how big can we make it?
How does ReadyBoost work?
In a nutshell, ReadyBoost is a caching mechanism that uses a flash-based device or a memory card to pre-fetch frequently-used files on your hard disk. The goal is to reduce latency and improve response times during boot-up and while operating your system.
History of ReadyBoost
64-bit Windows 32GB Limit
Until 64-bit Windows comes into the scene, Flash drives were formatted using FAT16, having a maximum 4 GB capacity limitation. You couldn’t possibly store the 4.2-GB WinRAR test file on a 4GB FAT16 storage device or the 20-25 GB Adobe Photoshop Suite, for that matter.
64-bit Windows, on the other hand, can operate on EXT4 Linux file system. Thus, the potential 2048 GB (2.1 TB) of Windows RAM to play an increasingly important part in boosting overall system responsiveness.
We’re now facing the dawn of a 32 GB as the magic number for optimal system cache and memory demands.
Table 1. Windows Size Limits
| Operating System | RAM Support |
|---|---|
| 64-bit Windows Pro, Enterprise, and Education | 2048GB (2.1 TB) |
| 64-bit Windows Home | 128GB (128) |
Case Studies: What does 32 GB mean to us:
16 GB means for casual users, gamers, and developers.
The Sweet Spot 32 means for high-end players and professionals:
- Handles most games;
- Most developers’ RAM demands handled;
- The ideal upper limit for heavy work users, like Adobe Suite pros;
**Other considerations that can affect 32-GB RAM:
- Cache Size: Even if users don’t care about heavy usage, increasing the flash memory size with 24 GB or the maximum might provide a bigger performance cushion.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74lQezUbE3U