Apple鈥檚 macOS includes built-in tools that can help MacBook owners identify whether storage, memory, or background applications are causing sluggish performance, according to a guide published by Engadget. The recommendations are aimed at users who want to troubleshoot before resorting to third-party cleanup utilities, a common but often unnecessary step. The guide walks through a sequence of system checks, starting with a simple restart and moving into deeper diagnostics.
The first step recommended is restarting the MacBook, especially if the slowdown is recent. Users should choose the Apple menu, select Restart, and then use the machine normally to see if the issue returns. If a specific application triggers the slowdown, that narrows the investigation for later steps. After that, the guide suggests checking storage under System Settings, General, and Storage, where Apple lists insufficient space on the startup disk as a possible cause. Users can review built-in recommendations, delete unneeded files, or move data to an external drive such as a portable SSD.
For real-time diagnostics, the guide points to Activity Monitor, which can be opened quickly via Spotlight search using Command and Space. The CPU tab shows processor usage by apps and system processes, and if one application repeatedly tops the list during slowdowns, quitting and reopening it may help. The Memory tab is also useful, but the guide advises focusing on the Memory Pressure graph rather than raw unused RAM. Green indicates efficient memory use, while yellow or red signals higher pressure, and users should consider quitting memory-heavy apps if they are not needed.
The guide also addresses applications that launch automatically at sign-in. Under System Settings, General, and Login Items and Extensions, users can review the Open at Login list and remove apps that do not need to start every session. The same settings page includes App Background Activity, which covers tasks like updates and syncing for apps that are not open. The guide recommends reviewing this list for rarely used software and uninstalling unused apps, but cautions against disabling everything, since some apps rely on background permissions.
For power management, MacBook models that support Power Modes can be checked under System Settings, Battery. The default Automatic mode balances energy use and performance, while Low Power reduces energy use to extend battery life. If performance matters and Low Power is enabled, switching back to Automatic is worth trying. Some MacBook Pro models also have a High Power mode, but Apple positions it for sustained, demanding workloads like intensive video and 3D work, not as a general speed boost.
The guide further recommends checking for software updates under System Settings, General, and Software Update. Apple advises using the latest compatible version of macOS for security, stability, and compatibility, though updating is not a guaranteed performance improvement. If none of the above steps explain the problem, the guide suggests targeted troubleshooting, including Safe mode, which can determine whether startup software is involved. Apple has different Safe mode steps for Apple silicon and Intel Macs, so users should consult the company鈥檚 instructions. Disk Utility鈥檚 First Aid tool, found under Applications, Utilities, can also check for formatting and directory errors if a disk problem is suspected, though neither tool is a routine speed booster.
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