Want to speed up your MacBook? Do these things first

image via Engadget

August 29, 2026, 12:30 PM

• •The article advises restarting a slow MacBook first to see whether the slowdown is temporary or tied to a specific app.
• •It recommends checking storage in System Settings and using Activity Monitor to identify apps consuming excessive CPU or memory.
• •Users are told to review login items and background activity so unnecessary apps are not launching or running behind the scenes.
• •The piece says Low Power mode can reduce performance, while Automatic is the usual best default and High Power mode is only useful for sustained demanding workloads.
• •It also suggests checking for macOS updates, using safe mode for targeted troubleshooting and running Disk Utility First Aid if a disk issue is suspected.

The article explains that a slow MacBook does not necessarily need a factory reset, cleanup app or replacement. It recommends starting with a restart, then checking storage usage, CPU load and memory pressure to identify what is causing the slowdown. It also tells users to review login items, background activity and battery power modes that may be affecting performance. If basic checks do not help, it suggests updating macOS and using safe mode or Disk Utility First Aid for more targeted troubleshooting.

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