In 2024, laptops are vital for business, education, and pleasure. Due to resource-intensive software and programs, even modern laptops might struggle with demanding tasks. Maintaining laptop performance is essential for gaming, creativity, and productivity. Check out these 2024 laptop performance tips to keep it running smoothly.
Upgrade to SSD
SSDs are one of the best laptop performance increases in 2024. Upgrade your laptop’s HDD to an SSD for quicker read/write speeds. SSDs speed up laptop booting, software opening, file transfer, and multitasking. Using resource-heavy applications or loading large files faster will benefit from this upgrade. With an SSD, your laptop will be more responsive even with heavy loads. Reference: Vital
Increase RAM for Multitasking
If you multitask or use memory-intensive apps, adding RAM to your laptop can boost speed. Video editing, gaming, and graphic design software need more RAM in 2024. Upgrading from 8GB to 16GB (or greater) lets your laptop multitask without slowing down. Even with enormous datasets, several browser tabs, or virtual machines, more RAM improves performance. Reference: PCMag
Clear Your Storage
Overloaded hard drives hinder laptop performance. With more digital content being created and kept in 2024, laptops might become overloaded with superfluous files, programs, and transient data. Regularly uninstalling apps, clearing caches, and eliminating superfluous files can free up storage and boost speed. Use Windows’ Disc Cleanup or macOS’s Storage Management to clear trash files, and archive non-essential items in the cloud. See Digital Trends.
Update Drivers and Software
Your laptop’s performance can suffer from outdated software. In 2024, software upgrades frequently feature efficiency-boosting optimisations and bug patches. Upgrade your operating system and check for updates for important drivers such your graphics card, network adapter, and chipset. Software and drivers should be updated to work with new apps and keep your laptop running properly. Your device is further protected by many updates that fix security issues. Reference: Microsoft
Stop startup programs
Many programs run automatically when you start your laptop, slowing boot times and performance. System tools let you choose which apps launch at startup in 2024, making startup program management easier than ever. MacOS users can disable starting items in System Preferences, whereas Windows users can use Task Manager. Limiting unneeded launch apps speeds up laptop boot times and saves resources. Reference: PCWorld
Configure Power for Performance
Laptops have power-saving modes to save battery life, but they reduce CPU speed and screen brightness. Users that choose performance over battery life can optimise power settings for speed and responsiveness in 2024. Switching to “High Performance” or “Best Performance” on Windows maximises laptop resources. MacOS users can modify energy settings to prioritise performance over efficiency while plugged in. Reference: Apple Support
Uninstall unnecessary software
Unneeded applications can slow down your laptop. Laptops still come pre-installed with apps you may never use in 2024. Removal of bloatware and other unneeded apps frees up system resources and speeds up the system. Uninstall unused apps and utilise lightweight alternatives to resource-intensive programs. It will streamline your system and increase laptop responsiveness. Reference: CNET
Scan for malware & viruses
Laptop performance can be slowed by malware and viruses. Cybersecurity risks evolve in 2024, making regular scans to detect and remove dangerous software vital. Modern laptops have built-in antivirus protection, but you should use a reliable third-party security application for more protection. Malware removal and system security optimisation can boost performance and secure your data. Reference: Norton
Optimise browsers
If you use the web often, an unoptimised browser can delay your laptop. Multiple-tab web browsers remain one of the most resource-intensive apps in 2024. Disable unneeded plugins and clean your browser cache to improve efficiency. Switch to Firefox Focus or Microsoft Edge, which are fast browsers. Using fewer tabs and closing inactive tabs can also increase performance and memory use. Check Google Support.
Keep Your Laptop Cool
Overheating can hinder laptop performance and induce thermal throttling, where the CPU slows down to prevent damage. In 2024, laptops have greater cooling, but external influences can still heat them up. Keep your laptop vents clear and avoid soft surfaces that trap heat. Keeping temperatures low with a cooling pad or external fan might help your laptop run well. Reference: Cooler Master
Have Regular Maintenance
Laptops need regular system maintenance to work smoothly. In 2024, this involves defragmenting HDDs, cleaning fans, and checking for faults. Optimising starting routines, controlling active apps, and executing disc checks helps keep your laptop running smoothly. Regular maintenance will prevent performance issues and keep your gadget running smoothly. Reference: PCMag
Conclusion
In 2024, you can improve laptop performance without buying a new one. By upgrading SSD and RAM, updating software and drivers, and tweaking laptop settings, you may maximise your computer. Maintenance, uninstalling unneeded programs, and cooling optimisation can boost laptop speed and responsiveness. Apply these strategies to keep your laptop running smoothly, no matter how difficult your job. Reference: Laptop Mag