Microsoft Says Windows 11 Is Now More Responsive, Especially On 8GB RAM PCs

Microsoft has unveiled a range of performance enhancements for Windows 11, asserting that the operating system can now be up to 20% more responsive, particularly on machines with limited memory. Navjot Virk, Microsoft's corporate vice president of Windows Experiences, revealed that these improvements span various aspects of the OS, including Start, File Explorer, Search, Snipping Tool, Microsoft 365, and Edge.

The focus of the modifications is on optimizing system resource allocation, especially for PCs with constrained memory. Microsoft aims to make everyday user interactions feel swifter, whether it's launching applications or searching for files. A key component of this endeavor involves refining Windows 11's memory management, allowing the OS to retain up to 2GB more active data in memory rather than storing it on slower storage, which should keep PCs responsive when users open additional applications or tabs.

The performance gains are particularly beneficial for computers with 8GB of RAM or less. Microsoft highlights that Widgets now load solely when activated on these systems, unlocking more than 200MB of memory for other applications and tasks. This is part of a broader initiative to lessen Windows 11's background memory consumption and more effectively utilize available resources.

Microsoft emphasized that the performance metrics are derived from measurements comparing specific interactions between Windows 11 versions, with real-world outcomes varying based on the device, configuration, and usage patterns. The enhancements are gradually being deployed more widely following testing with the Windows Insider community.

Additionally, Microsoft recently launched a new Windows Search experience that can execute certain system actions directly from search results, transforming it into a control center for everyday tasks. This feature is presently accessible to Windows Insiders, with a broader release slated for later this year.

Separately, certain older Windows PCs might lose access to Windows Update by 2027 due to an upcoming shift in update infrastructure. This could impact users who persist in using older versions of Windows or devices that haven't been updated with the necessary patches.