How To Free Up Memory On Macbook Pro



To free up physical RAM, what you need to do is to minimize the number of memory-intensive processes/apps you have running. Simply quit apps and kill processes that you don’t actively use (excluding essential system processes). Since this is not an easy decision and this update doesn't come for free, it is up to you to find out if it is worth for you to get 4, 8 or 16 GB of memory/RAM. This decision depends on your individual usage, which refers to how you will use your MacBook and which apps you will use. Crucial Memory and SSD upgrades - 100% Compatibility Guaranteed for apple macbook-pro-systems - FREE US Delivery.

To identify your MacBook Pro model, use the information in How to identify MacBook Pro models.

Once you're sure which model you have, find it in the list below to go to the instructions for that model. Note: Apple notebooks not listed in this table have non-removable memory.

13-inch

MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2012)
MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2011)
MacBook Pro (13-inch, Early 2011)
MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2010)
MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2009)

15-inch

MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012)
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2011)
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2011)
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2010)
MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2.53GHz, Mid 2009)
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2009)
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008)
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2008) and earlier

17-inchMacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2011)
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2011)
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010)
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2009)
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009)
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2008) and earlier

Applicable Models

The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro (13-inch) models:

  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2012)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2011)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, Early 2011)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2010)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2009)

Memory specifications

Use the tables below to confirm the memory you're installing is compatible with your MacBook Pro.

MacBook Pro (13-inch, mid 2012)
Number of memory slots2
Base memory4 GB
Maximum memory8 GB
Memory card specifications- Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format
- 67.6mm x 30mm (1.18 inch)
- 2 GB or 4 GB
- 204-pin
- PC3-12800 DDR3 1600 MHz type RAM
Additional notesFor best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot.
MacBook Pro (13-inch, Late 2011) and MacBook Pro (13-inch, Early 2011)
Number of memory slots2
Base memory4 GB
Maximum memory8 GB
Memory card specifications- Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format
- 67.6mm x 30mm (1.18 inch)
- 2 GB or 4 GB
- 204-pin
- PC3-10600 DDR3 1333 MHz type RAM
Additional notesFor best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot.
MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2010) and MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2009)
Number of memory slots2
Base memory4 GB
Maximum memory8 GB
Memory card specifications- Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format
-30mm (1.18 inch)
- 2 GB or 4 GB
- 204-pin
- PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM
Additional notesFor best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot.

Removing or installing memory

Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.

Step 1: Remove the bottom case

  1. Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, USB cables, security lock, and any other cables connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
  2. Turn over your MacBook Pro and remove the ten (10) screws that secure the bottom case. Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place. Lift off the case and place it to the side.
  3. Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.

Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)

  1. Push the levers on the sides of the memory module in an outward direction to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you don’t, try pressing the levers outward again.
  2. Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
  3. Remove the other memory module.
    Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the gold connectors.

Step 3: Install memory

How To Free Up Icloud Storage On Macbook Pro

  1. Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
  2. Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
  3. Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
  4. Repeat this procedure to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.
    Note: Make sure you install the memory according to this illustration, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.

Step 4: Replace the bottom case

Replace the bottom case. Replace and tighten the ten screws you removed earlier, making sure to put the different length screws in their proper locations.

Applicable Models

Detroit become human mac download. The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 15-inch models: Download microsoft office free on mac.

  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012)
  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2011)
  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2011)
  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2010)
  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2.53GHz Mid 2009)
  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2009)

Memory specifications

Please use the tables below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.

MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2012)
Number of memory slots2
Base memory4 GB
Maximum memory8 GB
Memory card specifications- Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format
- 30mm (1.18 inch)
- 2 GB or 4 GB
- 204-pin
- PC3-12800 DDR3 1600 MHz type RAM
Additional notesFor best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2011) and MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2011)
Number of memory slots2
Base memory4 GB
Maximum memory8 GB
Memory card specifications- Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format
- 30mm (1.18 inch)
- 2 GB or 4 GB
- 204-pin
- PC3-10600 DDR3 1333 MHz type RAM
Additional notesFor best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot.
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2010), MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2.53GHz Mid 2009), MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2009)
Number of memory slots2
Base memory4 GB
Maximum memory8 GB
Memory card specifications- Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format
- 30mm (1.18 inch)
- 2 GB or 4 GB
- 204-pin
- PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM
Additional notesFor best performance, fill both memory slots, installing an equal memory module in each slot.

Removing or installing memory

Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.

Macbook

Step 1: Remove the bottom case

  1. Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, USB cables, security lock, and any other cables connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
  2. Turn over your MacBook Pro and remove the ten (10) screws that secure the bottom case. Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place. Lift off the case and place it to the side.
  3. Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.

Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)

  1. Push the levers on the sides of the memory module in an outward direction to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you don’t, try pressing the levers outward again.
  2. Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
  3. Remove the other memory module.
    Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the gold connectors.

Step 3: Install memory

  1. Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
  2. Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
  3. Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
  4. Repeat this procedure to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.Note: Make sure you install the memory according to this illustration, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.

Step 4: Replace the bottom case

Replace and tighten the ten screws you removed earlier, making sure to put the different length screws in their proper locations.

Applicable model

The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 15-inch models:

  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008)

Memory specifications

Please use the table below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.

MacBook Pro (15-inch, late 2008)
Number of memory slots2
Base memory2 GB
Maximum memory4 GB
Memory card specifications- Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format
- 30mm (1.18 inch)
- 1 GB or 2 GB
- 204-pin
- PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM
Additional notesFor best performance, fill both memory slots and install an identical memory module in each slot.

Removing or installing memory

Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.

Step 1: Remove the access door

  1. Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, security lock, and any other cords connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
  2. Turn over your MacBook Pro and locate the latch. Push down to release the latch and remove the access door that covers the battery and hard drive.
  3. The latch must be in its released, open position to remove the access door.

Step 2: Remove the battery

With the latch still in its open position, gently pull up on the tab to remove the battery.

Step 3: Remove the bottom case

  1. Remove the eight screws that secure the bottom case of your MacBook Pro, and then remove the bottom case.
    Important: Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place.
  2. Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.

Step 4: Remove existing memory (if present)

  1. Push out the ejection levers on the sides of the memory module to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you don’t, try pressing the ejection levers again.
  2. Hold the memory module by the notches and remove it from the slot.
  3. Remove the other memory module.
    Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.

Step 5: Install memory

  1. Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
  2. Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
  3. Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
  4. Repeat, if necessary, to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.
    Note: Make sure you install the memory according to the illustration below, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.

Step 6: Replace the bottom case

Replace the bottom case. Replace and tighten the eight screws.

Step 7: Replace the battery

To replace the battery, make sure the latch is in its open position. Hold the battery at an angle and slide the lipped edge of the battery below the brackets on the outside edge of the battery bay. Gently press the battery down.

Step 8: Replace the access door

With the latch in the open position replace the access door, making sure it is level with the bottom case of your MacBook Pro, and press the latch into the closed position.

Applicable models

The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 17-inch models:

  • MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2011)
  • MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2011)
  • MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010)
  • MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2009)
  • MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009)

Memory specifications

Use the tables below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.

MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2011) and MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2011)
Number of memory slots2
Base memory4 GB
Maximum memory8 GB
Memory card specifications- Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format
- 67.6mm x 30mm (1.18 inch)
- 2 GB or 4 GB
- 204-pin
- PC3-10600 DDR3 1333 MHz type RAM
Additional notesYou can add two 4 GB memory modules for a maximum of 8 GB of memory. For best performance, fill both memory slots and install an identical memory module in each slot.
How to clean up system storage on macbook pro
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2010), MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2009), and MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009)
Number of memory slots2
Base memory4 GB
Maximum memory8 GB
Memory card specifications- Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format
- 30mm (1.18 inch)
- 2 GB or 4 GB
- 204-pin
- PC3-8500 DDR3 1066 MHz type RAM
Additional notesYou can add two 4 GB memory modules for a maximum of 8 GB of memory. For best performance, fill both memory slots and install an identical memory module in each slot.

Removing or installing memory

Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.

Step 1: Remove the bottom case

  1. Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, USB cables, security lock, and any other cables connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
  2. Turn over your MacBook Pro and remove the ten (10) screws that secure the bottom case. Because the screws are different lengths, note the screw lengths and locations so you can replace the screws correctly. Put them aside in a safe place. Lift off the case and place it to the side.
  3. Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.

Step 2: Remove existing memory (if present)

  1. Push the levers on the sides of the memory module in an outward direction to release the module from the memory card slot. The memory pops up at an angle. Before removing it, make sure you find the half-circle notches. If you can't find the notches, try pressing the levers outward again.
  2. Hold the memory module by its notches and remove it from the slot.
  3. Remove the other memory module.
    Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.

Step 3: Install memory

  1. Align the notch on the gold edge of the module with the notch in the lower memory slot.
  2. Tilt the card and push the memory into the slot.
  3. Use two fingers with firm, even pressure to push down on the memory module. There should be a click when you insert the memory correctly.
  4. Repeat this procedure to install an additional memory module in the top slot. Press down on the module to make sure it is level.
    Note: Make sure your memory is installed according to the illustration below, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.

Step 4: Replace the bottom case

Replace the bottom case. Replace and tighten the ten screws you removed earlier, making sure to put the different length screws in their proper locations.

Applicable models

Download mac os x 7.5. The instructions provided below are for the following MacBook Pro 15-inch and 17-inch models:

  • MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2008) and earlier
  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2008) and earlier

Memory specifications

Please use the tables below to confirm the memory being installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro.

MacBook Pro (17-inch, Late 2008) and earlier and MacBook Pro (15-inch, Early 2008) and earlier
Number of memory slots2
Base memory512 MB (configure to order)
Maximum memoryRefer to the table below
Memory card specifications- Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR3) format
- 30mm (1.18 inch)
- 200-pin
- PC2-5300 DDR2 667 MHz Type RAM
How To Free Up Memory On Macbook Pro


Refer to this table for the maximum amount of memory that can be recognized by these notebook computers:

2 GBMacBook Pro, MacBook Pro (17-inch), MacBook Pro (15-inch, Glossy)
3 GBMacBook Pro (15-inch and 17-inch Core 2 Duo)
Note: These models will support only 3 GB total memory. If you want to maximize the amount of SDRAM in your computer, install a 2 GB SO-DIMM in one slot and a 1GB SO-DIMM in the other.
4 GBMacBook Pro (15-inch 2.4/2.2 GHz), MacBook Pro (17-inch 2.4 GHz), MacBook Pro (15-inch Early 2008), MacBook Pro (17-inch Late 2008)

Removing or installing memory

You will need to remove the battery before installing additional memory and reinstall the battery after installing the memory. The following procedure includes all the necessary instructions for both parts of the process.

Warning: The internal components of your MacBook Pro can be warm. If you have been using your MacBook Pro, wait ten minutes after shutting down the computer to let the internal components cool before continuing.

Step 1: Remove the battery

  1. Shut down your MacBook Pro. Disconnect the power adapter, Ethernet cable, and any other cords connected to the MacBook Pro to prevent damaging the computer.
  2. Turn the computer over.
  3. Locate the battery release latches on each side of the battery.
  4. Slide both latches up. The battery should pop up slightly.
  5. Lift the battery out.

Step 2: Remove the memory door

  1. Using a Phillips size 00 screwdriver, unscrew the memory door and remove it from the battery bay of your computer. Depending on the model of your MacBook Pro, you may have three or four screws.
  2. Touch a metal surface inside the computer to discharge any static electricity from your body.

Step 3: Remove existing memory (if present)

If you need to remove a memory card—for example if you are replacing it or if you need to get past the memory in the top slot to access the bottom slot—you can remove the card by spreading the tabs on each side of the card away from the notches in the memory card. The card should pop up slightly. Lift the memory card to about a 25-degree angle and then gently slide the card out of the memory slot.
Important: Hold the memory modules by their edges; do not touch the gold connectors.

Step 4: Install memory

  1. Insert the new memory card at a 25-degree angle. Line up the notch in the card with the small tab in the memory slot and slide the card into the slot until the gold edge is almost invisible. Firmly press the memory card into the memory slot. You might feel some resistance.
  2. Gently spread the small tabs in the memory slot away from the notches and push the memory card down until the two tabs on either side of the card lock into place.
  3. Insert any additional memory into the second slot.
    Note: Make sure you install the memory according to the illustration below, with the gold contacts inserted almost completely into the connector.

Step 5: Replace the memory door

Replace the memory door, and make sure the door is lying flat before you screw it back into place.

Step 6: To insert the battery

  1. Place the bottom edge of the battery into the battery compartment at an angle, as shown below.
  2. Gently press the top edge of the battery down until the battery latch locks into place.

Learn more

Checking that your computer recognizes the new memory

After installing additional memory, you should confirm that the computer recognizes the new memory. To check the computer’s memory:

  1. Start up your computer.
  2. When you see the Mac OS X desktop, choose the Apple () menu from the upper-left menu bar, then choose About This Mac.

The total memory includes the amount of memory that originally came with the computer plus the new memory you added, or if all the memory has been replaced, the new total for that memory. For detailed information about the amount of memory installed in your computer, open System Profiler by choosing Apple () and then About This Mac. Then, click More Info and then Memory from the Hardware section that appears in System Profiler.

If your computer doesn’t recognize the memory or doesn’t start up correctly, confirm that the memory you installed is compatible with your MacBook Pro and that it is installed correctly by reseating the memory.

System cleanup in one click
Make your Mac fast and secure with CleanMyMac X.

Few things are more frustrating than your Mac telling you it has run out of memory when you're trying to be productive. It's more frustrating when you've ignored the problem for quite some time and your Mac's limitations simply won't let you put a solution on hold any longer.

  • How to get rid of low memory notifications

Usually, a popup warning isn't the first sign that something is amiss. You may have noticed that your Mac isn't running as fast as it used to, with the fan louder than normal as if it's struggling to carry a heavy load up a hill.

Although Macs are wonderful computers, they have limitations. Thankfully, there is plenty you can do to resolve this problem and get your Mac operating smoothly again.

How To Free Up Memory On Macbook Pro

Reduce memory usage with Setapp

Instead of manually deleting files, get Setapp. It not only removes the clutter but also gives you full control over memory usage.

Your system has run out of application memory - Fix it

Mac memory usage is often occupied by apps, even browsers like Safari or Google Chrome. In the most dire circumstances, your Mac will toss a warning at you: 'your system has run out of application memory.'

Don't despair – it's solvable. The first thing to note is this is a natural issue; your Mac has a limited amount of RAM. Though more expensive Macs have more RAM, even they can butt against limitations when too many applications are running.

It may also be an app that is hogging all of your resources. This is especially true of older applications which haven't been optimized for modern computer architecture. Websites may also be a culprit.

Check RAM usage on Mac

To check your RAM use on any Mac, take the following steps:

  1. Open Activity Monitor from your list of applications
    Note: You can do this is the Mac's control center, via the Finder in your Mac's dock, or by pressing command-space and typing 'Activity Monitor' in the Spotlight search field.
  2. Toggle to the 'Memory' pane in the Activity Monitor window

As you see in the above screenshot, Activity Monitor shows you all of your processes, sub-processes, and how much memory each is taking up. The most pertinent portion of the window is the bottom, where it shows you the total memory usage, and how it's affecting your Mac.

A better way to monitor your Mac's memory use is with iStat Menus. After installing the app, it makes a home in your Mac's menu bar, and monitors just about everything, including memory, CPU, GPU, disks, and network usage.

You can choose which systems you'd like to monitor in the app itself. Only the items you're monitoring will have an icon in your menu bar. A simple click on the menu bar icon surfaces a drop-down menu of how your Mac is performing at the time, and hovering over each graphic brings up a larger menu, as you can see below.

How to check CPU usage on Mac

How

Checking CPU use on your Mac is similar to the steps above for checking memory use. For Activity Monitor, you'd make sure to highlight the 'CPU' section of the window. This will show you all the processes using your Mac's CPU at the time.

Similarly, iStat Menus has a 'CPU & GPU' toggle just above the memory section. Activating that will add a CPU and GPU monitor to your Mac menu bar, which has the same interactivity as the memory icon and menu shown above.

How to free up memory on Mac

Knowing how to clear memory on Mac is important, especially if you have a Mac with limited resources. One option is using Activity Monitor:

How To Free Up Memory On Macbook Pro
  1. Open Activity Monitor on your Mac
  2. Select an app using a lot of memory
  3. Click the 'x' icon on the top left of the screen

This is straightforward, but there's a better way. CleanMyMac X has an automated CPU and memory monitors built-in, which can give you a real-time view of memory usage in your Mac's menu bar. It also has a really quick and easy way to free up memory without digging through Activity Monitor and manually shutting down apps.

All you have to do is click the CleanMyMac X icon, select 'Free Up' in the memory pane, and the app takes care of the rest! Oftentimes, it doesn't even shut apps down.

This is a quick fix, but CleanMyMac X takes it a step further in the app itself. Under the app's 'Maintenance' section is an option to 'Free Up RAM,' which helps you clear RAM on Mac. Once you've got this option selected, simply select 'Run' at the bottom of the window, and CleanMyMac X will do a thorough scrubbing of your Mac's RAM, and clear unused files out of the way.

How to get rid of low memory notifications

Most apps are pretty good about how they use your Mac's resources. Having too many open or running in the background can severely limit what your Mac can handle, and is often why a Mac overheats or slows down.

Here are a few tips to reduce high memory usage manually if you're experiencing unique warnings or issues:

Fix 'kernel_task', a high CPU usage bug

You may have noticed through Activity Monitor something called kernel_task absorbing a large amount of processing power. One of the functions of kernel_task is to help manage CPU temperature; you may find that your Mac fan is loud and always on, even if the device isn't hot to the touch.

kernel_task usually performs this way when one or more applications are trying to use too much CPU. Unfortunately, one of the potential downsides is a Mac can overheat to such an extent that internal systems are damaged, sometimes irreparably.

Working through the following steps in this article is one way to avoid similar problems. If none of this work and kernel_task is still absorbing a high percentage of your CPU, then one or more of the following could be the cause:

  • Cooling system inefficiency
  • A failed or disconnected temperature sensor
  • Another hardware issue, including a worn out batter
  • Your System Management Controller needs a rest

If you're experiencing severe issues, Apple recommends a system management controller (SMC) reset. It's essentially a hard reset for your Mac, and should help your RAM and other hardware components start from scratch. Keep in mind you won't lose any data in this process.

Reduce memory usage in Finder

One common culprit for RAM issues is Finder, your Mac's file manager. If iStat Menus or Activity Monitor has highlighted Finder as using hundreds of MBs of RAM, there is an easy solution: change the default display for a new Finder window so it doesn't show All My Files.

  1. Click on the Finder icon in the Dock and click on the Finder menu, then select Preferences
  2. Click on General. Under 'New Finder windows show', click the dropdown menu and choose any option except All My Files
  3. Close Preferences, press Alt-Control, and click on the Finder icon in the Dock. Click Relaunch

Finder will now relaunch with new windows opening at the option you selected in step two.

Improve Chrome's Task Manager

Chrome is a popular browser, but it's a resources hog! Chrome uses a GPU Process as standard, which means it speeds up the loading of web pages, which can be great except at times when your computer is struggling with insufficient RAM.

Here's how:

  1. Open Chrome on your Mac
  2. On the right side of the Chrome window, select the three-dot menu
  3. Select 'More tools'
  4. Select 'Task Manager'
  5. Select a Chrome process you'd like to kill
  6. Select 'End Process' at the bottom right of the window

Here's another way to reduce Chrome's use of your Mac's memory:

  1. Open Chrome on your Mac
  2. On the right side of the Chrome window, select the three-dot menu
  3. Select 'settings'
  4. Scroll to the bottom of the page and select 'advanced'
  5. Scroll down to 'System,' and toggle 'Use hardware acceleration when available' off

This will affect how Chrome runs on your Mac, and your experience won't be as smooth. You can also remove unused or unwanted Chrome extensions to help it use less resources on your Mac.

Get CMM X to free up space

Install CleanMyMac X and streamline the entire process of memory management on Mac. Clever memory usage control done for you.

Clean up browsers

In every browser you use regularly, there are always going to be extensions and popups that take up space and use RAM. You can manage each one manually, or use a tool such as CleanMyMac X to identify and delete them.

In the CleanMyMac X app is a section titled 'Extensions,' which lists each extension you have for your browser or browsers. All you have to do is view the list of extensions, select the ones you no longer want, and remove them. It's really that simple!

Disable login items

Login items, browser extensions, and preference panes, such as Flash, are another common source of memory usage. Most of us have several installed that we rarely use, but which hog memory and reduce performance.

One way to do this is through System Preferences:

  1. From your Mac menu bar, select 'System Preferences'
  2. Select 'Users & Groups'
  3. Select 'login items'
  4. Deselect items you no longer want active at login

Another way, one that is even quicker, is to employ CleanMyMac to identify and cleanup login items.

  1. Open CleanMyMac X
  2. Under 'Speed,' select 'Optimization'
  3. Select 'login items'

You can remove all login items, or select the ones you'd like to remove individually on the right side of the window.

Disable desktop widgets

Older Macs running a version of macOS older than Catalina can disable widgets. Desktop widgets can provide a useful shortcut to apps you need to access fairly often. But they can take up processing memory that is slowing your whole Mac down. One way to close them completely is in System Preferences.

Go to: Mission Control > switch off the Dashboard

Declutter your desktop

Apple's built in decluttering tool is handy for many. All you have to do on your cluttered desktop is right-click, then select 'Use Stacks.' This places all of your desktop files into folders unique to their filetype, like 'screenshots' and 'images.'

A better way is to use Spotless, an app that gives you far more control over how your Mac is organized. It has several triggers for automated cleanup of files on your desktop, placing them wherever you see fit. It's particularly useful for power users who produce several files daily, but don't want to take the time to place each in a respective folder.

You can also select many files on your Mac desktop, and tell Spotless to tidy them up. You always have full control!

Schedule regular cleanups

Constant use of your Mac, or leaving it on all the time, will slow it down over time. Shutting it down and restarting is a traditional way of 'cleaning up' a computer.

How Do I Free Up Memory

We also like CleanMyMac X's scheduled cleanup feature. Telling the app when you'd like to perform a thorough cleaning up of your Mac's system is a method many prefer to shutting down and restarting often. It has the upshot of removing files and folders you no longer use, and cleaning up tasks that are slowing your Mac down behind the scenes. A simple shutdown may not do this.

Mac Clear Memory

Keeping your Mac in tip-top shape is critical. While we'd all like to think computers are brilliant little devices that can handle anything, they need some care, too.

All of the apps mentioned in this article help with taking care of your Mac, and protecting your investment. Best of all they're each free as part of a seven day trial of Setapp. Give it a try today!

Free Up Memory Xp

Setapp lives on Mac and iOS. Please come back from another device.

How Do I Free Up Memory On My Macbook Pro

Meantime, prepare for all the awesome things you can do with Setapp.

Read on

Sign Up

Memory For Macbook Pro 2011

Setapp uses cookies to personalize your experience on our website. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our cookie policy.