What are the pros and cons of using ReadyBoost to boost Windows 10 memory?

1 What is ReadyBoost and how does it work?

ReadyBoost is a technology that was introduced in Windows Vista and improved in Windows 10. It works by creating a file on a compatible removable device that acts as a cache for your system memory. When your PC needs to access data that is not in the main memory, it can use the ReadyBoost file instead of the hard disk, which is much slower. ReadyBoost can improve the performance of your PC when you have multiple applications running, when you switch between tasks, or when you resume from sleep or hibernation.

2 How to enable ReadyBoost on Windows 10?

To use ReadyBoost on Windows 10, you need a removable device with at least 256 MB of free space (up to 32 GB) and a high data transfer rate (2.5 MB/s for read and 1.75 MB/s for write) formatted with NTFS, FAT32, or exFAT file system. To enable ReadyBoost, plug in your device and wait for Windows to recognize it. Then, open File Explorer and right-click on your device. Select Properties and then the ReadyBoost tab. Choose either Dedicate this device to ReadyBoost or Use this device and adjust the amount of space to reserve for ReadyBoost. Finally, click OK and wait for Windows to create the ReadyBoost file.

3 What are the benefits of using ReadyBoost?

ReadyBoost can offer a number of advantages for Windows 10 PCs, particularly when they have a low RAM capacity or a slow hard disk. ReadyBoost can speed up the loading time of applications and files that you often use, as they are stored in the faster cache. Additionally, it can reduce disk activity and noise, as your PC has to rely less on the hard drive for memory operations. Furthermore, ReadyBoost can extend the battery life of your laptop by consuming less power when using the cache instead of the hard disk. Finally, it can improve the responsiveness of your PC when multitasking, switching between windows, or resuming from sleep or hibernation.

4 What are the drawbacks of using ReadyBoost?

Using ReadyBoost on your Windows 10 PC is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and there are some drawbacks you should be aware of. ReadyBoost can supplement RAM, but it cannot increase the amount of RAM your PC has. Additionally, the speed and quality of your removable device will determine how well ReadyBoost works. Furthermore, certain applications or games that require high memory bandwidth or low latency may not be compatible with ReadyBoost, as it cannot match the performance of the main memory. Lastly, ReadyBoost may reduce the lifespan of your removable device due to its constant writing and reading data.

5 How to disable ReadyBoost on Windows 10?

If you wish to disable ReadyBoost on Windows 10, you can do so by opening File Explorer and right-clicking on your device. Select Properties, followed by the ReadyBoost tab. Select the option to 'Do not use this device' and click OK. Windows will then delete the ReadyBoost file and free up the space on your device.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?