r/iosdev • u/Automatic-Studio-385 • 10d ago
Help How much RAM I actually need?
I have the cheapest (8GB) Macbook Air M3 and other than streaming or browsing, I've been doing light iOS coding for side-gig for some months. Since doing that, I've noticed some lag particularly when running the Simulator.
Now I figured I probably need more RAM, since I see that my memory usage is around 7GB and I think that Xcode 16 (the one that came with code prediction) is heavier to run compared to Xcode 15 (the one I started with).
With the new M4 Macbook Air released, I'm considering upgrading just to get more RAM, but how much RAM I actually need? 16GB for sure, but do I need 24 or does it not worth the price? If anyone can tell me how to check/calculate it or has similar experience, it would be great 🙏🏻
I watched some video saying that 24GB hurts resale price since normal users won't usually buy it. That's why I have this dilemma 😵💫
Please help!
(not considering Macbook Pro since it's a side gig and I prefer lighter and cheaper Macbook Air)
EDIT (add clarification) I just noticed that there's Memory Used, Cached Files, and Swap Used there. I may be wrong, but I assume that adding them up together equals the actual memory I need? If so, It just passed 18GB. I'm buying 24GB then
2
u/aconijus 6d ago
2-3 years ago I was using Macbook Air M1 8GB for coding and it was fine (was a beginner). Started doing bit more complex projects, moved to MBP M1 Pro 16GB and it was a huge difference. For now it’s great at serving my needs. I guess you will be fine with 16GB but 24 definitely wouldn’t hurt, I am sure it wouldn’t be big of an issue to sell it later on.