
Like any other computer, Macbook begins to underperform after a while. And the people are not that happy, especially when they have to do their work.
Using a sluggish Mac is not a fun experience, and all these struggles lead to considerations that buying a new Macbook is the only solution.
Spending your money on a new computer is an option, but there are methods that will boost the performance, and you will not have to pay any money. Want to find out what those methods are? Continue reading.
Table of Contents
Method #1 – Freeing up Disk Space
It is quite common to experience the problem of lacking disk space. When the disks are not that large, a number of people fail to put all their files inside. And when that happens, you suffer from a drop in performance and receive annoying warning messages.
There are ways to fight the problem if you do not want to purchase external storage devices or subscribe to streaming services that eliminate the need to keep media files around. Some of the best ways to free up disk space would be:
- Transferring files to cloud-based services like Dropbox. The services are free, and you can access the files any time while connected to the internet.
- Deleting old applications, email attachments, and downloads.
- Clearing junk files like caches, plugins, extensions, and backups using cleanup software (you can find out about the best cleaner software from this source).
Method #2 – Turning off Visual Effects
Visuals might seem like a nice feature to have around, but they offer no real merit. Looking pretty is nothing compared to the importance of having a well-optimized Mac that is running without any hiccups.
Go to the Dock and start by unticking the boxes from both “Automatically hide and show the Dock” as well as “Animate opening applications” at the bottom of the tab.
You can also click on the “Minimize windows using” section and change the Genie effect to the Scale effect.
Method #3 – Reindexing Spotlight
Spotlight needs to index, and it takes a while. However, some people have noticed that the process of indexing does not always go that smoothly, and the app gets stuck. To fix the problem, head to the Spotlight tab via System Preferences and select Privacy.
You will need to drag the hard drive icon from Finder and add it to the Privacy List. After the icon is added, remove it, and it will initiate the indexing process, which should finish without any issues.
Method #4 – Scanning for Malware and Viruses

Malware and viruses have been around for a long time, and lack of anti-virus software can lead to a lot of potential problems. Even if you are not clicking on unknown links and avoid shady websites, it is still better to install anti-virus and get peace of mind.
You can find a lot of great available options that are free, meaning that there is no need to spend money on anti-virus software.
Method #5 – Cleaning Filth Inside
Not everything is related to the tech itself. People who neglect to clean dust and dirt inside the computer will have to pay for it sooner or later.
A lot of filth accumulates over time, and if you notice that the internal fans are making too much noise, or that the computer is overheating, dust and dirt inside the Mac are most likely the reason behind it.
Clean the computer and do not risk damaging internal hardware. Also, when the weather is hot, and you need to deal with high temperatures, purchasing a cooling pad is also an excellent investment.
Method #6 – Optimizing Internet Browser
A number of people experience the most trouble when they are trying to browse the internet. There is a possibility that the computer is not at fault. Browsers with too many extensions and add-ons will feel heavy and might lead to the point where it is almost impossible to use them.
Look at the list of extensions and add-ons you have installed. Remove irrelevant tools. Clearing caches and browsing history might also help.
If the problem persists, consider downloading another browser and try it out. Using incognito mode and even private internet browsing might also make things better.
Method #7 – Updating the System

New updates improve the overall performance and stability of both applications and the macOS itself. It is recommended that you install the most recent version and be up to date.
However, it is worth mentioning that some users have started to experience performance issues on a Macbook after switching to the most recent versions.
Some Mac models are older and cannot support the new OS. If you are experiencing drops in performance after switching to a new OS version as well, switch back to what you had previously and see whether the Macbook will run better then.