Your laptop takes forever to start, apps freeze, and the fan sounds like a jet engine. Before you start shopping for a new one, try these fixes. Most take a minute or two, and together they solve the problem for a lot of people.
Each tip includes steps for both Windows and Mac.
1. Restart It (Properly)
Laptops that are only ever closed and opened can go weeks without a real restart. Background processes pile up and memory fills. Click Restart, not just sleep or shut the lid. It’s the easiest fix on this list, and it often works.
2. Find What’s Hogging Your Computer
- Windows: press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Click the CPU or Memory column to sort by what’s using the most.
- Mac: open Activity Monitor (search for it with Spotlight) and sort by CPU or Memory.
If one app is using a huge share and you don’t need it right now, close it.
3. Stop Apps From Launching at Startup
Many apps quietly set themselves to open every time you turn on your laptop. That slows startup and eats memory all day.
- Windows: in Task Manager, open the Startup apps tab and disable anything you don’t need right away.
- Mac: go to System Settings > General > Login Items and remove extras.
Don’t worry: disabling an app here doesn’t uninstall it. You can still open it whenever you want.
4. Tame Your Browser
For many people, the browser is the real problem. Dozens of open tabs and a pile of extensions can use more memory than everything else combined.
- Close tabs you aren’t using, or bookmark them for later.
- Remove extensions you don’t use.
- In Chrome, turn on Memory Saver under Settings > Performance.
5. Free Up Storage Space
When your drive is nearly full, your computer has less room to work, and everything slows down. Aim to keep at least 10 to 15% of your storage free.
- Windows: go to Settings > System > Storage. Turn on Storage Sense and check Cleanup recommendations.
- Mac: go to System Settings > General > Storage and review the recommendations.
Your Downloads folder is usually the best place to start. It’s often full of installers and files you forgot about.
Note: Features and policies may vary by plan, region and app version, and can change at any time. Check the official help center for the latest information.
6. Install Pending Updates
System updates often include performance fixes, and outdated drivers can cause slowdowns on Windows. Check Settings > Windows Update on Windows or System Settings > General > Software Update on a Mac.
7. Check Your Power Mode
Battery-saving modes slow your laptop down on purpose. On Windows, go to Settings > System > Power & battery and set Power mode to Balanced or Best performance when plugged in. On a Mac, check Low Power Mode under System Settings > Battery.
8. Run a Malware Scan
Unwanted software can quietly use your computer’s resources. On Windows, open Windows Security and run a quick scan. Also look through your installed apps and remove anything you don’t recognize.
9. Know When It’s the Hardware
If your laptop is still slow after all of this, the hardware may be the limit. Two upgrades make the biggest difference on older laptops:
- Switching from a hard drive to an SSD can make an old laptop feel new.
- Adding more RAM helps if you multitask a lot, if your model allows upgrades.
Many newer laptops have parts soldered in place, so check your model before buying anything.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do “PC cleaner” apps speed up a laptop?
Usually not much, and some cause more problems than they fix. The built-in tools above do the job for free.
How often should I restart my laptop?
Once every few days is a good habit, and always after installing updates.
Will resetting my laptop make it faster?
Often, yes, but it’s a last resort. Back up everything first, and try the steps above before you reset.
The Bottom Line
Restart, trim startup apps, calm your browser and free up storage. Those four steps alone fix most slow laptops. Give it ten minutes before you spend money on a new one.
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Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is based on details available at the time of writing. Prices, plans, features, release dates, policies and availability can change at any time and may vary by country. Please verify the latest information on the official website of the company or product mentioned before making any decision or purchase. Next DigiTech is an independent website and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the companies mentioned; all trademarks belong to their respective owners. We are not responsible for any loss or decisions made based on this content.
