[Your Name/Institution] Date: October 26, 2023 Subject: Digital Content Creation / Motion Graphics
AE loads uncompressed frames into RAM for instant preview. A single frame of 4K (32-bit color) consumes approximately 50 MB. A 10-second preview at 30 fps requires ~15 GB of RAM just for the frames —plus overhead for the application and OS. adobe after effects requirements
The minimum RAM (16 GB) will allow the software to launch, but previewing even a 10-second 1080p composition will be painfully slow. The minimum RAM (16 GB) will allow the
If you take one thing away from this post, let it be this: When you preview a composition, After Effects stores those frames in your RAM. The more RAM you have, the longer your preview can be without the computer needing to re-render it. After Effects uses the GPU for specific "GPU-accelerated"
After Effects uses the GPU for specific "GPU-accelerated" effects (like Lumetri Scopes, Camera Lens Blur, and Finishing) and ray-traced 3D rendering. While it is less critical than the CPU for daily tasks, a good GPU ensures your viewport remains snappy.
Before you buy or upgrade, use this quick checklist to ensure your machine is ready for motion graphics: