PC requirements

Starbound System Requirements

Starbound needs at least Core 2 Duo, 2 GB RAM and 256 MB graphics memory and directx 9.0c compatible gpu graphics. For the recommended experience you want Core i3, 4 GB RAM and Discrete GPU capable of directx 9.0c graphics.

Verified Sources: Steam store listing
Starbound minimum and recommended PC specifications
Component Minimum Recommended
Operating system Windows XP or later Windows XP or later
Processor Core 2 Duo Core i3
Memory 2 GB RAM 4 GB RAM
Graphics 256 MB graphics memory and directx 9.0c compatible gpu Discrete GPU capable of directx 9.0c
DirectX Version 9.0c Version 9.0c
Storage 3 GB available space 4 GB available space
Not sure how your PC compares? Use the Can I Run It checker — pick your CPU and GPU and it tells you which column you land in.

Other platforms

Starbound is also available on these systems, where hardware is fixed and no per-PC check is needed:

Quick answers

Running Starbound on PC

Can my PC run Starbound?
Compare your CPU, GPU and RAM against the minimum column below. If your parts match or beat every minimum row, the game will launch — though you may need to lower settings. Matching the recommended column is what gets you 60fps at 1080p.
How much storage does Starbound need?
3 GB available space
What is the difference between minimum and recommended specs?
Minimum means the game starts and is playable, usually at 30fps on low settings at 1080p. Recommended is the developer's target for a smooth 60fps experience at high settings.