Before you hit that download button, there’s one big question: does your PC meet the MSFS 2024 system requirements? Flight Simulator is one of the most demanding games out there, but the good news is you don’t need a supercomputer to enjoy it.
In this guide, we’ll break down the full MSFS 2024 system requirements in plain English, explain what each spec means, and help you figure out whether your setup is ready to fly — or if it’s time for an upgrade.
Minimum MSFS 2024 System Requirements
These are the bare minimum MSFS 2024 system requirements to get the sim running. You’ll be able to play, but you may need to turn down the graphics settings and expect lower frame rates.
- Operating System: Windows 10 (version 1909 or later) or Windows 11
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 2600X / Intel Core i7-6800K or equivalent
- RAM: 16 GB
- GPU: AMD Radeon RX 5700 / NVIDIA GTX 970 with 4 GB VRAM
- Storage: 50 GB available space (SSD recommended)
- Internet: 25 Mbps broadband connection
- DirectX: Version 12
Recommended MSFS 2024 System Requirements
If you want a smoother experience with higher graphics settings and more stable frame rates, aim for these specs. This is the sweet spot for most simmers.
- Operating System: Windows 10 (version 1909 or later) or Windows 11
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 2700X / Intel Core i7-10700K or equivalent
- RAM: 32 GB
- GPU: AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT / NVIDIA RTX 2080 with 8 GB VRAM
- Storage: 50 GB available space on an SSD (NVMe preferred)
- Internet: 50 Mbps broadband connection
- DirectX: Version 12
Ideal Setup for the Best Experience
Want the full Ultra experience with buttery smooth frame rates? Here’s what the enthusiasts are running:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D / Intel Core i7-13700K or better
- RAM: 32 GB or 64 GB DDR5
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4070 Ti / AMD RX 7900 XT or better with 12+ GB VRAM
- Storage: 500 GB+ NVMe SSD (for the sim, cache, and add-ons)
- Internet: 100+ Mbps fibre connection
Don’t worry if you’re not at this level — MSFS 2024 is very scalable and can look fantastic even on mid-range hardware. Check the official Flight Simulator website for the latest spec updates.
What Each Spec Actually Means
If you’re not a PC hardware expert, don’t stress. Here’s what each component does and why it matters for flight simulation:
CPU (Processor)
The CPU handles the game’s logic — aircraft physics, AI traffic, weather simulation, and more. MSFS is particularly demanding on the CPU because it’s constantly calculating complex systems in real time. A stronger CPU means smoother gameplay, especially in busy airports and complex weather.
Beginner tip: When comparing CPUs, look at single-core performance rather than just the number of cores. MSFS benefits more from fast individual cores than having lots of slower ones.
GPU (Graphics Card)
The GPU renders everything you see — the landscapes, clouds, cockpit instruments, lighting, and weather effects. A more powerful GPU lets you turn up the visual quality while maintaining playable frame rates. The amount of VRAM (video memory) matters too, especially at higher resolutions.
Beginner tip: If you’re playing at 1080p (Full HD), 8 GB of VRAM is usually plenty. At 1440p or 4K, you’ll want 10-12 GB or more.
RAM (Memory)
RAM is your PC’s short-term memory. MSFS 2024 uses a lot of it because it needs to keep scenery data, textures, and game systems loaded and ready. With 16 GB you can run the sim, but 32 GB gives you much more breathing room — especially if you run other apps in the background like a web browser or flight planning tools.
Storage (SSD vs HDD)
MSFS 2024 loads a lot of data as you fly, and an SSD (Solid State Drive) makes a massive difference compared to an older spinning hard drive (HDD). Load times are shorter, scenery pops in faster, and the overall experience feels much smoother.
Beginner tip: If you can only afford one upgrade, make it an SSD. An NVMe SSD is even better, but any SSD is a huge improvement over a hard drive.
Internet Connection
Unlike MSFS 2020, the 2024 version streams most of its scenery data from the cloud in real time. This means your internet speed directly affects how good the world looks around you. A faster, more stable connection means sharper textures and more detailed scenery. You can still fly offline, but the visual quality won’t be as impressive.
How to Check Your Current PC Specs
Not sure what’s inside your PC? Here’s how to find out in Windows:
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Go to System, then scroll down and click About.
- You’ll see your CPU and RAM listed under “Device specifications”.
To check your GPU:
- Press Windows key + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter.
- Click the Display tab.
- Your GPU name and VRAM will be shown here.
To check your storage:
- Open File Explorer.
- Click This PC on the left.
- You’ll see your drives and how much free space each one has.
Can You Play on a Laptop?
Yes — but with some caveats. MSFS 2024 runs on gaming laptops with dedicated GPUs (not integrated graphics). Look for laptops with at least an NVIDIA RTX 3060 or AMD equivalent, 16 GB RAM, and an SSD.
Keep in mind that laptops run hotter and may throttle performance during long sessions. A cooling pad can help. You’ll also likely need to run at Medium or High settings rather than Ultra.
Do You Need to Upgrade?
Here’s a simple guide based on the MSFS 2024 system requirements:
- Your PC meets minimum specs — You can play! Start on Low or Medium settings and enjoy. You can always upgrade later.
- Your PC meets recommended specs — You’re in great shape. High settings with a smooth experience.
- Your PC falls below minimum — You’ll likely need to upgrade at least your GPU or RAM. The good news is that adding RAM or swapping in an SSD are relatively affordable upgrades.
- You’re buying a new PC — Aim for the recommended specs as a starting point. Check out our PC Hardware guide for specific build recommendations.
A Note on Storage Space
While the minimum install is around 50 GB, MSFS 2024 will grow over time as it caches scenery data and you install add-ons from the Community folder. Plan for at least 250 GB of dedicated space if you want room for popular free add-ons, liveries, and scenery enhancements.
If storage is tight, check out our guide on installing and setting up MSFS 2024 for tips on managing your Community folder across drives.
What’s Next?
Now that you understand the MSFS 2024 system requirements, it’s time to get started:
- How to Install and Set Up MSFS 2024 — Step-by-step installation guide.
- PC Hardware Guide — Detailed hardware recommendations for flight sim builds.
- Performance Optimisation — Get the most out of your current hardware with the right settings.
- Graphics Settings Guide — Fine-tune your visual settings for the best balance.
Don’t let spec sheets intimidate you — MSFS 2024 is designed to scale across a wide range of hardware. Even on a modest setup, you’ll be amazed at what this sim can do. Happy flying! ✈️
