Reasons Why Your Macbook is Running Slow

Are you fed up with having to deal with a slow Macbook but cannot afford to purchase a new model? If that is the case, you will need to get to the bottom of where the problems of performance are coming from.

Each case is different and varies from person to person. Nevertheless, some reasons are quite common and usually are the cause of a sluggish Macbook. And when you know the reason, fixing the situation becomes a lot easier.

Below, you will find some ideas that are most likely causing the problems with the Macbook, as well as solutions for getting out of the predicament.

Cause #1 – Lack of Disk Space

Running out of disk space on Macbook is easy, especially if you have used a PC with a large HDD and SSD. Getting adjusted takes a while, but if you are looking for solutions right now, here are some things you can do:

  • Remove junk files like caches, temporary backups, app plugins, and extensions using cleanup software. You can check out a mac cleaner MacPaw website for CleanMyMac X as it is one of the best available cleanup software.
  • Transfer some data to Dropbox and iCloud. These cloud services are free and work as a safe place to keep the files.
  • Delete old applications, downloads, email attachments, and language pack files. In most cases, these files are not necessary. And you can always reinstall an app in case you need it again.
  • Use streaming services. Streaming platforms eliminate the need to keep large media files like movies and TV shows.

Cause #2 – Viruses and Malware

You can find a lot of tips for improving Macbooks, but never trust someone who suggests that you do not need anti-virus software that only consumes valuable resources.

It is hard to fathom why someone would spread such lies. The reality is that every computer needs good anti-virus software.

Threats like malware and viruses might be the reason why you are experiencing a sudden drop in the Macbook’s performance. Carry out a thorough scan and remove any threats if you find them. The longer a virus or malware stays on the computer, the more damage it will do.

Cause #3 – Overabundance of Visual Effects

Visual effects offer nothing of value, and those who are looking to increase the speed of their computer should not hesitate and get rid of them.

Go to the Dock and click on the “Minimize windows using” section and change the setting to the Scale effect.

You should also see a number of options below. Untick the boxes from the following – “Automatically hide and show the Dock” and “Animate opening applications.”

Cause #4 – Filth Inside the Computer

Regular cleaning of dust and dirt inside the computer should be part of every responsible Mac owner’s routine. The filth that accumulates inside is most likely causing you problems already.

Even if the internal fans are not making loud noises and the computer is not overheating, there is no reason to wait for things to reach a critical stage. Clean the filth right now, and you will notice a difference in how the Macbook is running smoother than before the cleaning.

Cause #5 – Memory Leakage

Memory leakage is a process in which a computer program incorrectly manages memory allocation and releases memory that is not necessary.

The best way to prevent memory leakage from happening is to restart your Macbook regularly. But not everyone is willing to restart the computer a few times a day when they have to wait for random applications to load in every instance. If that is the case, trim the login item list in the startup settings.

Cause #6 – Lack of Internet Browser Optimization

Some users take things a bit too far with extensions and add-ons. Adding to many of these in any browser will make it sluggish and hardly able to provide you with a good browsing experience.

Look at what you have installed and remove irrelevant extensions. Clearing caches ought to boost the overall performance as well.

And keep in mind that if you are still unhappy with the browser, there is always an option to download an alternative and give it a try.

Cause #7 – Desktop Clutter

The habit of putting every icon on the desktop is not healthy for the computer. Whenever you switch between the desktop and another window, each icon has to be rendered, and it consumes a lot of memory and other resources.

Instead of having a cluttered desktop, transfer the files in another location and organize them in folders.

All in all, keeping Macbooks or any other computers in good shape is a bother. You will encounter problems sooner or later. But the main thing to remember is that a solution is available most of the time.