Does adding RAM improve performance? How much do I actually need?

8GB feels cramped on Windows 11 with several browser tabs and Office open at once. 16GB is the comfortable sweet spot for most users. 32GB+ is really only necessary for video editing, running virtual machines, or heavy design work. One catch: some laptops (including many MacBooks and some Surface models) have RAM soldered to the board and simply can't be upgraded — worth checking before assuming it's an option.