8GB of RAM is back on laptops — companies are lowering memory offerings to make affordable notebooks during component crisis

Laptop companies are reducing memory offerings to make affordable notebooks during the ongoing component crisis. While 16GB of RAM had become the norm, there is a shift back to 8GB, with devices like the Dell XPS 13 and Acer Swift Air 14 starting at this lower memory capacity. Despite some pushback, reviewers find that 8GB is sufficient for basic tasks on macOS, though heavier workloads may experience performance issues. The move towards 8GB is driven by the rising prices of components due to AI research demands, offering more budget-friendly options for consumers.