If you have had the same MacBook for years, you have probably noticed that it is not running as fast as it did in the beginning. Avoiding sluggish performance is more or less impossible unless you are willing to spend money and purchase a new computer.
However, there are ways to improve the overall performance of the current MacBook by spending a minimal amount of money. Want to find out what those are? Read the tips below, and you will be able to enjoy your MacBook again.
Tip #1 – Perform Disk Cleanup
Running out of disk space is quite common on a MacBook, especially if you switch from using a PC. The disks themselves do not have that much space, so keeping all the files you want is a problem.
There are ways to salvage the situation. Even if you have very little free space to work with, you can still:
- Subscribe to streaming services that will eliminate the need to keep large media files like movies or TV series.
- Clean junk files like caches and old backups using a cleanup utility tool (check out this fresh review by MacPaw on the best available software).
Tip #2 – Delete Old Files
Deleting old files is another way to make more free disk space. While the junk and temporary data can be cleaned using utility software, there is still a lot you can do manually.
Old applications, language pack files, media files, email attachments, and downloads take precious drive space and do not offer a lot in return. Do a thorough check on what you have on the computer and delete anything you no longer need. Also, remember to empty the trash bin because dragging files there do not remove but only transfer them to another location.
Tip #3 – Use External Storage Devices and Clouds
External storage devices like USB memory sticks are not that expensive, but you can still fit quite a lot of data in them. At the same time, there are cloud-based services like Dropbox and iCloud.
Clouds are free unless you want to get an upgraded plan for more storage space, and files in them are going to be safe and accessible any time provided that you have an internet connection.
Tip #4 – Optimize Web Browser
Some users experience the most problems with their internet, not the computer itself. And the root of the issue stems not from the MacBook, but the browser.
You should remove useless extensions and add-ons as well as clear the cache and browsing history for a more optimized browser. And if the problem does not go away, consider using an alternative browser application.
Tip #5 – Add Extra RAM
Extra RAM will improve the overall performance. Some apps require a lot of memory, and it is possible that your current setup does not have enough to sustain specific processes. Moreover, RAM is not as expensive as one might think. You should be able to find a good deal by doing a bit of research online.
Tip #6 – Buy an SSD
Similar to RAM, getting an SSD for a MacBook will also make it run smoother. There were some hiccups at first, but the hardware continues to advance and improve every year, meaning that MacBooks can benefit even more from solid-state drives.
Though it is worth mentioning that adding an SSD is a bit tricky and should probably be left to someone who knows how to carry out the task.
Tip #7 – Clean Dust and Dirt
Not all problems are related to the tech. Dust and dirt accumulate over time, and those who fail to clean the Mac regularly will have to face the consequences sooner or later.
People who are afraid of tinkering with the parts and are afraid of damaging something have another option. Take the MacBook to someone who has the experience and will clean it for a reasonable fee.
Tip #8 – Scan for Malware
There are a lot of different types of malware, and it is not just exclusive to macOS. Even if you are looking to avoid shady links and files, it is still better to be safe than sorry.
Get antivirus and have it run in the background for peace of mind. But do not stop there. Actively scan the MacBook and ensure that there are no threats that are slowing down the speed of your computer.
Tip #9 – Get a Cooling Pad
A cooling pad is an excellent long-term investment. Some people use it as a resting place for the computer, but the primary function of a cooling pad is to regulate the temperatures, especially when you have to use the Mac when it is hot. If you heard loud noises coming from the internal MacBook fans, it means that they are working at full capacity and then some. Do not wait for the fans to break and get a cooling pad.
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