Steam Hardware Survey: 32 GB RAM surpasses 16 GB

For the first time in the history of Valve’s Steam Hardware Survey, PCs equipped with 32 GB of RAM have surpassed those with 16 GB. According to the September 2026 data, 32 GB configurations accounted for 42.22% of users, while 16 GB configurations fell to 37.82%.

This shift follows a reversal from August, where 16 GB was the leading configuration. Analysts suggest the increase is driven by modern gaming demands, including titles utilizing Unreal Engine 5, as well as the memory requirements of Windows 11 and various background applications. The transition occurs despite global memory chip shortages that have impacted DRAM prices.

The survey also noted significant movement in the processor market, with AMD’s market share among respondents increasing by over 48%, narrowing the gap with long-time leader Intel.