High Memory Used on M1 MacBook Air (16GB RAM; 1TB)

Question

High Memory Used on M1 MacBook Air (16GB RAM; 1TB)

Hi, the 'memory used' of my new MacBook Air is 9.22GB despite having only 3 safari tabs & the Apple Music app open.

Why is the memory usage so high?

Sorry, I'm not an expert on tech but I was told 8GB of RAM was more than enough for daily uses when I was choosing a MacBook and now my newly purchased MacBook's memory has already exceeded that even when idling.

Could someone please explain this to me if I'm incorrectly interpreting this or confirm if there's anything wrong with my MacBook?

Thanks.

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 12.1

Posted on Jan 18, 2022 3:38 AM

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Answer 1

ku4hx

Level 7

23,852 points

Jan 18, 2022 4:50 AM in response to randomjanitor

Memory is there to be used and your Mac will use it in the most efficient manner possible. As long as Memory Pressure is green and stays there, its operation correctly.

You can reduce usage somewhat by completely closing apps when not being used, but as long as memory pressure stays low and green you're in good shape.

As with your battery, trying to micro manage memory is a task best left up to your OS. Until and unless you run into actual problems, let the Mac do its job and enjoy using it.

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Answer 2

Jan 18, 2022 7:05 AM in response to randomjanitor

Why would you buy 16 GB RAM if you did not want to use it? Unused RAM is wasted RAM. A purpose of RAM is to store data to allow quick retrieval and use. If data is not stored in RAM in anticipation of need then why have any RAM?

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High Memory Used on M1 MacBook Air (16GB RAM; 1TB)

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