Eight tips to improve your laptop’s performance (and save your sanity)

Before spending on a new model, try these steps to speed up your device

Andrew Williams

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Andrew Williams has worked as a technology journalist since 2008, and currently specialises in fitness tech, audio and personal computing. He has worked in a freelance capacity since 2014, and his work can be found at publications including Wired, The Guardian, Forbes, T3, Stuff and TrustedReviews.

Updated 02 October 2026 10:04am BST

Published 30 September 2026 6:00pm BST

Tech prices have risen rapidly in recent years. Combine that with the cost of living crisis and the once-exciting prospect of upgrading your laptop can mean sacrificing next year’s holiday.

Luckily, if your laptop is running slowly, there’s a good chance you might not need to buy a new one.…