How to Allocate More RAM to Minecraft

If your Minecraft is stuttering or crashing, it might be running out of memory. Learn how to allocate more RAM in the Java Edition launcher.

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How to Allocate More RAM to Minecraft

By default, the Minecraft Java Edition launcher often limits the game to use only 2GB of RAM. For modern versions like 1.21.1, especially if you are using high-resolution texture packs or shaders, this is often not enough.

Allocating more RAM can solve issues like "Out of Memory" crashes, stuttering, and low FPS.

How much RAM should you allocate?

• Vanilla Minecraft: 4GB is usually plenty.
• Light Modded/Shaders: 6GB - 8GB.
• Heavy Modpacks: 8GB - 12GB.

Steps to Allocate RAM (Official Launcher)

1. Open the Minecraft Launcher.
2. Click on the Installations tab at the top.
3. Hover over the version you want to edit and click the three dots (... ) and select Edit.
4. Click More Options at the bottom.
5. Look for the JVM Arguments text box.
6. At the very beginning of the string, you will see -Xmx2G. This means 2GB is allocated.
7. Change the 2G to the amount you want (e.g., -Xmx4G for 4GB, -Xmx8G for 8GB).
8. Click Save and launch the game.

Verifying the Change

Once the game is running, press F3. In the top right corner, you will see "Mem:" followed by a percentage and the total allocated memory. If it shows the value you entered (e.g., 4096MB), the change was successful!

Related Tutorials:

• Ultimate Minecraft Configuration Guide
• How to Reduce Lag on Servers