Windows and Linux both heavily use RAM caching, that is, using Unused RAM as a massove disk cache to improve performance - a lot of Windows processes that are “running” are really idling in RAM and not doing anything unless called on. In a way, they’re “cached”.

Almost every problem with Windows running slow out of the box are one of three things:

1: Not enough RAM (stupid super cheap 4-8GB laptops) 2: Not enough storage (stupid super cheap 32-128GB laptops) 3: Installed on a hard drive (install Windows to an SSD, spinny bois are too slow for 2024)

It is true Windows 11 asks for about 5GB RAM, but what else does? Your web browser. The solution is to not be cheap and have at least 16GB RAM, regardless of your OS. You want to have no more than half your RAM used when you’re using your PC. This gives you enough for programs, the disk cache, and room to grow.