To make your 2015 MacBook fast again, there are several steps you can take. I’ll guide you through each one in detail:
1. Clean up system files and documents: Over time, your MacBook accumulates unnecessary files and documents that can slow it down. Start by deleting any files you no longer need, such as old photos, videos, or large documents. You can use the Finder app to locate and delete these files. Additionally, emptying the trash regularly can free up storage space and improve performance.
2. Detect and kill demanding processes: Sometimes, certain processes or applications can consume a significant amount of system resources, resulting in a slower Mac. To identify and close these resource-hogging processes, you can use the Activity Monitor utility. Open Spotlight (Command + Space) and type “Activity Monitor” to launch the app. From there, you can view CPU, memory, energy, disk, and network usage. Sort the processes by these categories and close any high-impact processes that are not necessary.
3. Speed up startup time: Managing startup programs can significantly improve your MacBook’s boot time. To do this, go to System Preferences, then Users & Groups, and click on your username. Navigate to the “Login Items” tab and remove any unnecessary applications that launch at startup. This will help your Mac start up faster and reduce the strain on system resources.
4. Remove unused apps: Uninstalling unused applications can free up valuable disk space and improve performance. Open Finder and navigate to the “Applications” folder. Locate any apps you no longer use and drag them to the Trash. Remember to empty the Trash afterward to completely remove them from your system.
5. Run a macOS system update: Keeping your macOS up to date is crucial for both security and performance improvements. Go to the Apple menu, select “System Preferences,” and click on “Software Update.” If there is an available update, click “Update Now” to install it. Regularly updating your Mac ensures that you have the latest bug fixes and optimizations.
6. Upgrade your RAM: If your MacBook feels sluggish even after performing the previous steps, consider upgrading your RAM (memory). Upgrading from the original RAM can significantly improve performance, allowing your Mac to handle more tasks simultaneously. Consult the Apple website or an authorized service provider to determine the compatible RAM upgrade options for your specific MacBook model.
7. Swap your HDD for an SSD: Upgrading your hard disk drive (HDD) to a solid-state drive (SSD) can be one of the most significant improvements you can make to your MacBook’s speed. SSDs are faster and more reliable than traditional HDDs, providing faster boot times, quicker application launches, and overall snappier performance. However, this upgrade requires technical expertise, so it’s advisable to consult an authorized service provider.
8. Reduce visual effects: macOS offers various visual effects, such as animations and transparency, that can impact performance. To speed up your MacBook, go to System Preferences, then Accessibility, and select “Display.” Check the box next to “Reduce motion” and “Reduce transparency” to disable these visual effects. This can make your MacBook feel more responsive.
By following these steps, you should be able to make your 2015 MacBook faster and improve its overall performance. Remember to regularly maintain your Mac by cleaning up files, updating software, and optimizing system settings for the best experience.