Will switching to Linux improve gaming performance on a 16GB PC?

A lighter Linux desktop might give you a bit more free memory at idle, but it won't create a second supply of RAM for demanding games. If 16GB is consistently full, the most reliable fix is still a memory upgrade or reducing background programs and game settings. Consider testing Linux from a separate drive or live USB before making the switch.

Game compatibility varies a lot. ProtonDB is useful for checking specific titles, but anti-cheat, launchers, mods, and multiplayer features can still cause problems. Microsoft Flight Simulator may work acceptably with the right setup, while some versions of Arma are less consistent than they are on Windows.

Linux generally uses less memory and has fewer background processes, but that doesn't automatically translate into better gaming performance. The games themselves still need about the same amount of RAM, and compatibility layers such as Proton can introduce their own overhead. Check each game's compatibility before switching, and try closing unnecessary browser tabs and apps first.

For Arma 3, the native Linux version is old and hasn't received updates in years. Running it through Proton is possible, but users can experience stuttering and less consistent performance even when the average frame rate looks fine. It can be playable, but I wouldn't switch platforms expecting it to solve a RAM shortage.