OMEN's Memory Architecture: Impact on Creative Applications
Need a beefy new rig to crush your creative workflows? You probably already know about the top-selling GPUs and CPUs for creatives. But have you researched RAM? The best laptops for graphic design, video editing, and 3D animation feature a robust RAM module to facilitate fast-paced content creation.
The OMEN PC gaming series has all the hardware a busy creative professional needs, including abundant high-speed RAM.
In this post, we’re discussing why memory matters, what to expect from OMEN PC specs, and how RAM can streamline the creative process.
Why memory matters: What does RAM do?
Random Access Memory (RAM) is short-term memory that lets your computer rapidly access data and process instructions. When it comes to optimizing OMEN creative workflows (and gaming/everyday computing), a solid RAM module offers many benefits:
- Multitasking: Fast multitasking is the main reason for getting more RAM. As each program gets a generous temporary memory allocation, you’ll enjoy a smoother experience when switching between apps or opening multiple browser windows.
- Better software performance: When running programs, your CPU stores temp files as RAM for fast processing and retrieval. Extra RAM will allow demanding apps like Blender and Adobe After Effects to run more smoothly.
- System responsiveness: RAM isn’t just for speeding up apps. Extra memory will make your operating system run quicker and boost overall performance.
On the other hand, insufficient RAM leads to sluggish performance, slow load times, and a frustrating user experience, especially when multitasking. But how much RAM is enough?
PRO TIP:
When upgrading a system, adding RAM is often the most cost-effective way to see an immediate performance boost in creative applications that handle large files.
How much RAM does a creative need?
While more RAM improves content creation performance, not every profession needs a massive, high-speed module. Don’t waste your hard-earned money on unnecessary RAM when you could get a better CPU/GPU.
Here’s a breakdown of the content creator PC specs you should aim for.
How much RAM does a writer/editor/translator need?
Browsing the web and typing in Microsoft Word doesn’t require much temporary memory. 4GB gives you enough leeway for everyday tasks, but get 8GB if you like to leave numerous browser tabs open.
- Minimum: 4GB
- Recommended: 8GB
How much RAM does a graphic designer need?
Modern software like Photoshop and InDesign require a moderate amount of resources. While 8GB will suffice for light design work, industry professionals aim for 16GB or more. The best PCs for graphic design have 32GB to handle complex, high-resolution illustrations.
- Minimum: 8GB
- Recommended: 16GB
How much RAM does a video editor need?
The sweet spot for a video editor depends on the resolution. If you primarily edit in 1080p, you could get away with a modest 16GB of RAM, though 32GB will offer smoother performance. Step up to 4K, and you’ll want at least 32GB–ideally 64GB.
- Minimum: 16GB
- Recommended: 32GB to 64GB
How much RAM does a 3D animator need?
3D modelling forces your PC to store textures, models, and other large, complex files as temporary memory. As such, this field requires substantially more RAM than other creative pursuits. Look for a PC or laptop with a minimum of 32GB–though 64GB RAM provides a tangible speed boost.
- Minimum: 32GB
- Recommended: 64GB
Understanding RAM: Types, speed, heatsinks & overclocking
Quantity isn’t the only consideration. You should also assess the memory type and speed to ensure you can achieve the silky-smooth performance you need.
RAM type
The latest and most common memory RAM for PC is Double Data Rate 5 Synchronous Dynamic RAM (DDR5 SDRAM). Released in 2020, DDR5 SDRAM offers better power efficiency and double the bandwidth of its predecessor, DDR4 RAM.
That makes it a non-negotiable for creative professionals with heavy PC memory requirements, such as 3D modelers and video editors. Workers with less memory-hogging vocations, like writing or graphic design, can get away with older DDR4 RAM.
Virtually all mid-range to high-end computers–including the OMEN–come with DDR5 RAM these days. Some premium machines boast Kingston FURY-branded DDR5 RAM–it’s the best RAM memory for gaming.
RAM speed
RAM speed refers to the rate at which your PC can edit or read temporary memory. While older DDR4 tops out at about 3200MHz, the newer DDR5 architecture boasts blisteringly quick speeds of up to 6400MHz.
Double Data Rate (DDR) RAM processes data on both sides of the clock cycle to effectively double the transfer rate. Plus, DDR5 has the potential to become much faster in the future.
To evaluate RAM speed when shopping for a new PC, look for the number next to DDR5. For example, 16GB DDR5-5600 MHz RAM.
CALLOUT: RAM Speed vs. Capacity
For most creative professionals, having adequate RAM capacity is more important than extremely high speeds. However, for applications that handle real-time previews or complex simulations, investing in both high capacity AND high speed can make a noticeable difference in workflow efficiency.
XMP (Extreme Memory Profile)
Animators or gamers with heavy-duty memory requirements often overclock RAM to achieve better performance. XMP is a nifty bit of Intel tech that facilitates higher speeds through a preset BIOS profile and a tuning application.
The process is relatively straightforward–you don’t need to be a tech guru–and achieves impressive results. On the downside, you risk system instability and overheating, which could result in hardware failure; proceed at your own risk.
Both the RAM and your motherboard must be XMP-compatible to achieve overclocking.
Heatsinks
Also known as a heat spreader, the heatsink is a little metallic (usually copper or aluminum) fin that attaches to the RAM module to dissipate heat. Although a heatsink works 24/7, it doesn’t offer much benefit during standard use. The primary purpose is to prevent overheating during intensive, memory-hungry tasks like gaming or 3D rendering, especially when there is limited airflow.
If you plan to overclock your RAM or push it to the limits, a heatsink could save the life of your PC.
RGB lighting
Popular among PC gamers and self-build enthusiasts, RGB lighting attaches to your RAM module to create a cool neon-lit display. You won’t get better performance, but you can admire a nice technicolored interior while you work–assuming you’ve got a transparent case.
The OMEN Gaming Hub lets you adjust the RGB RAM profiles on most RAM modules. However, you may need to tweak the BIOS or manufacture software instead.
Understanding the OMEN memory architecture
From ultra-light laptops to high-end desktop machines, you’ll find dozens of different OMEN PCs at the HP US Store.
The most common OMEN RAM module is the ubiquitous 16GB DDR5-5600 MHz RAM, which offers a nice compromise between power and price. With 16GB running at a speedy 5600 MHz, you’ll have sufficient resources to run most creative tasks (aside from intensive rendering).
But it’s not the only RAM configuration available. The OMEN 35L Gaming Desktop GT16-0100t PC, for example, packs a powerful Kingston FURY 16GB DDR5-6000 with XMP, heatsink, and RGB lighting–it’s great for overclocking. Video editors requiring a chunkier 32GB RAM module could look at the OMEN 35L Gaming Desktop GT16-0077m PC or OMEN MAX Gaming Laptop 16.
All OMEN PCs come with OMEN Gaming Hub Booster technology, a helpful tool to enhance memory optimization for content creation and gaming. The program lets you identify and close unnecessary background apps to free up resources and monitor your vitals. Other non-RAM-related benefits include AI-driven optimization, thermal and power setting control, and real-time resource monitoring.
In addition to a cutting-edge CPU and GPU, the OMEN’s high-speed RAM makes this PC model a popular option among creative professionals and gamers.
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: OMEN MAX Gaming Laptop 16
The OMEN MAX Gaming Laptop 16 is a creative powerhouse featuring up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM running at 5600MHz. Perfect for video editors and graphic designers on the go, this laptop delivers desktop-class performance in a portable package. The crisp display, responsive keyboard, and exceptional thermals make it ideal for creators who need mobility without compromising on power.
Key features:
- Up to 32GB DDR5-5600MHz RAM
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40-series graphics
- Intel Core i9 processor
- 16" QHD display with 240Hz refresh rate
- Advanced cooling system for sustained performance
Streamlining Creative Processes
So how does a decent RAM module improve creative workflows?
Although language-based professions–writers, translators, proofreaders, editors, etc.–don’t require top-tier RAM, they do need a decent module. Insufficient memory will cause sluggish performance when multi-tasking with a word processor and multiple browser tabs.
Graphic designers will find ample high-speed RAM modules helpful when working on large, complex files featuring multiple layers. The best laptops for photo editing have 16GB RAM or more to handle detailed vector and raster graphics. Memory also proves handy for multitasking programs such as Photoshop and InDesign.
Video editors will find that a high-end RAM module results in smoother timeline scrubbing and real-time effect previews. The best PCs for video editing have at least 32GB of high-speed DDR5 RAM.
3D animators find more RAM crucial to avoid slowdowns when multi-tasking demanding apps like Blender and Substance Painter. Extra memory also lets you cache rendering data to make this time-consuming process much quicker.
Regardless of your field, a fit-for-purpose RAM module will speed up creative processes and optimize productivity. That means you can get more done in less time and advance more rapidly in your career.
TIP: RAM Management for Creatives
Even with ample RAM, it's good practice to:
- Close unused applications when working on memory-intensive projects
- Regularly restart your computer to clear RAM cache
- Use the OMEN Gaming Hub to monitor memory usage and identify resource-hungry applications
- Consider upgrading RAM if you frequently see usage exceeding 80% of your available memory
Smooth, Fast-Paced Gaming
Whether you’re into first-person shooters or resource-hungry RPGs, gamers will also benefit from a high-performance RAM configuration.
Not meeting a game’s recommended RAM requirements results in slower load times, lower frame rates, and more stuttering or tears. RAM also makes a massive difference when multitasking, especially with resource-hungry live-streaming platforms.
Of course, you’ll also need a speedy GPU/CPU to achieve optimal performance–but this won’t be a problem with an HP OMEN gaming PC. Note that exceeding the recommended RAM requirements won’t offer any benefit.
Summary
Although often overlooked, RAM is a crucial hardware component for optimizing creative suite performance. Whether you’re a proofreader or a 3D animator, insufficient RAM will result in frustrating slowdowns that hinder your output.
The HP OMEN comes in different hardware configurations to cater to varying budgets and requirements. Browse the HP OMEN range to find the perfect option for your professional and gaming needs.
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