Quick answer: Epic recommends roughly a quad-core CPU (2.5 GHz or faster), 32 GB of RAM and a DirectX 12 graphics card with 8 GB or more of video memory. If you’re on a budget, spend in this order:
- A fast SSD (NVMe if you can) for the engine and your projects.
- 32 GB of RAM.
- A CPU with more cores. It speeds up compiling code and shaders.
- The graphics card, unless you need Lumen and Nanite at high quality.
Can I use Unreal on a weaker PC?
Often, yes, for learning and smaller projects. Expect:
- longer waits for shader compiling and opening projects,
- lower frame rates in the editor with heavy scenes,
- the need to lower the editor quality with the Engine Scalability Settings (for example from High to Medium).
Epic notes that DirectX 11 can suit older PCs and laptops with integrated graphics better, while DirectX 12 is needed for some newer features.
Where your money matters most
Storage: SSD first
Unreal reads and writes a lot of files. Installing the engine and your projects on an SSD makes opening projects, loading assets and compiling noticeably faster than a hard drive. Leave plenty of free space: the engine, project caches and builds add up quickly.
RAM: 32 GB is the comfortable minimum
With 16 GB, the editor works for small projects, but large levels, compiling and running other apps alongside can fill memory quickly. 32 GB is Epic’s recommendation for good reason. More helps with big worlds and heavy C++ work.
CPU: more cores, less waiting
Compiling C++ and shaders uses many cores at once. A CPU with more cores means shorter waits, which adds up to hours over a project.
GPU: depends on what you build
- For stylised or 2D-looking games, a mid-range card is fine.
- For Lumen, Nanite and high-end visuals, a stronger modern card with more video memory makes a big difference.
Laptops
A laptop works, especially with a dedicated graphics card and good cooling. Keep it plugged in while working, and expect long compiles to run hotter and slower than on a desktop.
Quick wins if your PC feels slow
| Problem | Try this |
|---|---|
| Shaders take forever to compile | Raise the shader compiler priority (see our guide below) |
| Editor stutters in big levels | Lower the Engine Scalability Settings |
| Project opens slowly | Move it to an SSD |
| Running out of memory | Close other apps, or add RAM |
FAQ
Is 16 GB of RAM enough for Unreal Engine 5?
For learning and small projects, usually. For larger projects, aim for 32 GB.
Do I need an RTX graphics card?
No. Unreal runs on many DirectX 12 cards. Stronger cards help with Lumen, Nanite and ray tracing.
Does Unreal Engine 5 run on a Mac?
Yes, on recent Macs, with Apple Silicon recommended. Check Epic’s requirements page for the current details.