Microsoft says Windows 11 will be up to 20% faster on 8 GB RAM PCs

Microsoft says its upcoming Windows 11 updates will provide up to 20% better responsiveness for core features like the Start menu, File Explorer, Search, Settings, and right-click menus. This performance gain also applies to Edge, Microsoft 365, and the Snipping Tool, while Microsoft says Photos can launch up to 20% faster.

On computers with 8 GB of RAM or less, the system can now keep up to 2 GB of additional active data in the RAM rather than moving it to the SSD page file. Microsoft also says Widgets will no longer preload in the background on these low-memory machines, which saves more than 200 MB. For gamers, Microsoft says Advanced Shader Delivery is working for supported titles like Gears of War: E-Day and Forza Horizon 6 through the Xbox PC app.

These figures come from Microsoft's own measurements on a preview build, and the company has not shared the specific hardware or methodology used to reach them. The updates are currently being tested by Windows Insiders. A redesigned Search is planned for a broader release later this year, with other improvements arriving over time by region.