How to Allocate More RAM to Minecraft: Boost Performance & Reduce Lag (2025 Guide)

April 11, 2024

more ram

Introduction

Minecraft's blocky worlds demand more RAM than you might think—especially with mods, shaders, or large servers. Allocating more RAM can fix lag spikes, reduce chunk loading delays, and help heavy modpacks like CurseForge or Feed the Beast run smoothly. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to allocate more RAM to Minecraft on Windows, Mac, and Linux, while avoiding common pitfalls. Let’s optimize your gameplay!

Why Allocate More RAM to Minecraft?

  • Mods & Shaders: Packs like OptiFine or Create Mod require 4–8GB of RAM.

  • Multiplayer Servers: Hosting a server? Allocate extra RAM to prevent crashes.

  • Performance Issues: Low RAM causes stuttering, slow world generation, and texture glitches.

Warning: Don't allocate too much RAM! Overloading can cause Java garbage collection lag. Stick to 4–8GB for most setups.

Step-by-Step Guide to Allocate More RAM

For Windows (Java Edition)

  1. Open the Minecraft Launcher and go to Installations.

  2. Click your profile (e.g., Latest Release) → More Options → Open Advanced Settings.

  3. Under JVM Arguments, find -Xmx2G (default: 2GB RAM).

  4. Change it to -Xmx4G (4GB) or -Xmx8G (8GB).

  5. Save and launch the game!

Pro Tip: Use Java's latest version for better performance.

For Mac

  1. Open the Minecraft Launcher → Settings → Java Settings.

  2. Uncheck Use default memory settings.

  3. Adjust the slider to allocate more RAM (4–8GB recommended).

  4. Restart the launcher.

For Linux (CurseForge/Modded)

  1. Open your mod launcher (e.g., GDLauncher or PolyMC).

  2. Navigate to Instance Settings → Settings → Java/Memory.

  3. Set Maximum Memory to your desired RAM (e.g., 6144 MB for 6GB).

  4. Save and launch!

Common Issues & Fixes

  • Launcher Won't Save Settings? Reinstall the launcher or manually edit options.txt in .minecraft.

  • Java Errors? Ensure your Java path is correct in the launcher's settings.

  • Still Lagging? Lower render distance, close background apps, or install performance mods like Sodium.

FAQs

Q: How much RAM should I allocate for modpacks like SkyFactory?
A: Allocate 6–8GB for medium-sized modpacks. For huge packs (e.g., All the Mods 9), use 8–10GB.

Q: Does allocating RAM improve FPS?
A: Yes! More RAM reduces stutter in modded worlds and helps high-resolution texture packs load faster.

Q: Can I allocate RAM on consoles or Bedrock Edition?
A: No—RAM allocation is only adjustable on Java Edition for PC/Mac/Linux.