iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
There is no universal list of five apps that waste RAM on every Windows 11 PC. The apps using memory depend on what is installed and running on your computer. Use Task Manager to identify the actual resource users, then decide whether to close them, stop them from starting automatically, limit background activity, or uninstall them.
Why is my Windows 11 PC using so much RAM?
Apps can use memory while they are running, including some that continue working when you are not actively using them. Startup apps can also add background activity by launching when you sign in. But an app appearing in your installed-apps list does not mean it is currently occupying RAM.
A high memory percentage alone is not proof that something is wrong. Windows may use memory for caching and make it available when applications need it, as discussed in Windows Central’s coverage of memory use. Consider whether the PC is actually slowing down and what you are doing on it, alongside Task Manager’s readings.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchHow to find the apps using memory now
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- On the Processes tab, select the Memory column to sort by memory use. Inspect the apps and processes near the top and identify ones you recognize.
- Close an app only if you recognize it and are not using it. Closing it ends its current activity; it does not prevent it from launching the next time you sign in.
- Use Task Manager’s Performance tab to review system resource use, and check Startup apps to see what is configured to launch at sign-in. Microsoft recommends these checks when investigating performance: Tips to improve PC performance in Windows.
Do not rely on a fixed “five worst apps” list: the processes on your PC are the evidence that matters.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Which startup apps can I disable?
In Task Manager, open Startup apps and disable only programs you do not need to launch automatically when you sign in. This setting controls automatic startup; it is separate from whether a supported app may run in the background later. Microsoft’s instructions are in Configure Startup applications in Windows.
Task Manager’s startup impact labels describe CPU and disk activity during startup, not how much RAM you will recover by disabling an app:
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
- Low Impact: total CPU use is under 300 milliseconds and total disk use is under 292 kilobytes.
- Medium Impact: total CPU use is under one second but more than 300 milliseconds, or total disk use is under three megabytes but more than 292 kilobytes.
- High Impact: total CPU use is over one second or total disk use is over three megabytes.
These are Microsoft’s startup-impact criteria; they are not RAM-savings estimates. If you are unsure whether a program is needed, leave it enabled until you can identify it.
How to stop supported apps running in the background
Background activity can enable an app’s notifications, data syncing, and updates. For supported apps, Windows provides a separate permission setting:
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
- Open Settings > System > Power & battery > Battery usage.
- Find the app, select More options > Manage background activity.
- Choose a permission that fits how you use the app. Choosing Never stops it from running in the background while inactive, but you will not receive that app’s notifications or updates.
The setting is available for supported apps; it is not a universal control for every process. See Microsoft’s Manage background activity for apps in Windows for details.
Disable startup, limit background activity, or uninstall?
| Action | What it changes | When it makes sense | Main tradeoff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disable startup | Prevents automatic launch at sign-in. | You still use the app but do not need it to open automatically. | You may need to open it yourself when needed. This does not, by itself, change the app’s background permission. |
| Limit background activity | Restricts background operation for supported apps. | You want to keep the app but do not need it working while inactive. | Depending on the setting, notifications, syncing, or updates may stop. |
| Uninstall | Removes the app from the PC. | You recognize the software and no longer need it. | You will need to reinstall it if you want it again. Microsoft identifies storage and background-activity benefits, but does not document app-specific RAM savings. |
How to uninstall software you no longer need
If you recognize an app and have decided you no longer need it, use Settings > Apps to uninstall it. Microsoft lists removing unused apps as one way to free storage and reduce background activity, but that does not establish a guaranteed amount of RAM freed for any particular app. Read Microsoft’s Windows performance guidance for its broader cleanup advice.
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
How to tell whether the cleanup helped
After changing settings, use the PC as you normally do and check Task Manager again. Look for changes in the processes and performance you were concerned about, and judge the result by your actual workload and responsiveness—not by a memory percentage in isolation. If the PC remains responsive, a high percentage alone does not show that an app must be removed or that you need more RAM.
Use Windows’ app controls rather than disabling system services as a blanket cleanup measure. Which startup or background settings make sense depends on the apps you recognize and the notifications or syncing you rely on.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
