Have you been playing video games on your Macbook and noticed that the computer’s performance has been lackluster? If that is the case, you may start thinking that it would be better to forget about gaming on the Macbook and get a console or a gaming PC instead.
While that is a possible option, it does not necessarily mean abandoning the idea of enjoying video games on your current computer. The slow mac problem could be the result of you neglecting to take proper care of it.
If you would like to get more out of your Macbook while playing video games, the tips below should come in handy.
Tip #1 – Tinker With In-Game Settings
Before you try tinkering with the Macbook’s system, try to adjust game settings. It is no secret that some games require a lot of resources since they are visually-driven. However, if you can find a balance between reducing the graphics and still enjoying it, you should go for it.
Disabling effects like blur and shadows should not make too much of a difference in most cases. Locking FPS is a good piece of advice. Game developers allow players to change in-game settings for a good reason, and you should take that opportunity to create a setup that works for you.
Tip #2 – Try Windowed and Full-Screen Modes
Both windowed and full-screen modes have advantages and disadvantages. However, it is hard to predict which of the modes a video game will run better. Therefore, you should take some time and test both options.
Tip #3 – Clean Dust Inside the Macbook
You will likely hear loud internal fan noises after launching a video game on a Macbook. Besides, you should also notice that the computer will overheat.
Getting rid of these issues is not that simple, but you can improve the situation by removing the filth that accumulates inside the computer. In addition, consider getting a cooling pad – an accessory that gives the laptop a source of cool air to reduce the temperature.
Tip #4 – Limit Background Applications
Quitting background applications will free up system resources that the system can allocate to the video games.
Some background apps may be running in the background because you forgot to remove them from a startup item list and restarted the computer.
If you are uncertain which apps are active, check the Activity Monitor. The tool lists every active process and even lets you sort applications to find out which of them consume the most resources.
Tip #5 – Declutter the Desktop
Too many desktop icons is also a common Macbook performance problem. People find it more convenient to keep documents and app shortcuts on the Macbook’s desktop because it is easier to access the files.
However, this convenience is not great for the overall laptop performance. Each desktop icon requires rendering when you switch between the desktop and another tab. And the more shortcuts there are, the more of a problem it becomes.
Aim to have a clutter-free desktop. Relocate files to different folders and keep them in a different location. In case you have problems locating the data, use the search feature that your Macbook has.
Tip #6 – Keep macOS Updated
Keeping the operating system up to date should be a priority. It helps with more than just playing video games with fewer issues. Most macOS updates introduce performance stability and improvements, new features, and security patches that protect the Macbook from potential cybersecurity threats.
You may be reluctant to download and install a macOS update because it takes too long, but remember that missing the most recent version could be the reason why your computer is so slow.
Tip #7 – Invest in New Hardware
Not all Macbook models are compatible with hardware upgrades, but if yours is an exception, and you have some money to spare, then go for it. Also, if you are not in a hurry, wait for the next holiday season when computer accessories go on sale. Doing so will let you save some money.
The most popular hardware improvements include adding more RAM, replacing a hard drive with a solid-state drive, and getting an external GPU. A new graphics processing unit could make a big difference in helping you enjoy gaming on a Macbook.
Tip #8 – Clear Drive Space
Many modern video games require a lot of drive space. Since Macbooks are not the best when it comes to total available storage, your computer may end up with just a few free gigabytes of space left.
When that happens, avoiding performance issues is more or less impossible. As a rule of thumb, at least 10 percent of total drive storage should be free.
If you struggle with the issue, think about what files you can remove. Also, do not forget about cloud services where you can transfer some of the computer data.