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# How to speed up a slow Windows laptop
- URL: https://chale.tech/speed-up-slow-windows-laptop/
- Published: 2026-10-18T10:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-18T10:00:00.000Z
- Description: Slow boot, freezing, fan always running? Microsoft’s own fixes (startup apps, storage, updates, power mode, malware scan) plus the cheap upgrades that make the biggest difference: an SSD and more RAM.
- Author: Isaac Nana Yaw Annor
- Tags: How-To, Computers

Microsoft lists the usual reasons a Windows PC slows down: too little storage, too many apps starting with Windows, outdated software, and hardware that no longer keeps up. Work through these fixes in order.

## 1\. Restart properly

If you only ever close the lid, Windows may not fully restart for weeks. Use Start → Power → Restart.

## 2\. Stop apps starting with Windows

Press **Ctrl + Shift + Esc** to open Task Manager, go to **Startup apps**, and disable anything you do not need at startup (chat apps, updaters, game launchers). Microsoft recommends this.

## 3\. Free up storage

- Turn on **Storage Sense** (Settings → System → Storage) to clear temporary files automatically.
- Uninstall programs you do not use (Settings → Apps → Installed apps).
- Move photos and videos to an external drive or the cloud.
- Microsoft also suggests its free **Microsoft PC Manager** app for cleanup and startup management.

## 4\. Update Windows and drivers

Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates. Install optional driver updates too.

## 5\. Scan for malware

Open **Windows Security → Virus & threat protection** and run a scan. Malware can slow everything down. See [free antivirus for Windows](https://chale.tech/free-antivirus-for-windows/).

## 6\. Check the power mode

Settings → System → Power & battery → Power mode. “Best performance” makes the laptop faster, but Microsoft notes it drains the battery faster and can run warmer. Plug in when using it.

## 7\. Cut down browser tabs and extensions

Dozens of open tabs and extensions use a lot of memory. Close what you do not need and remove unused extensions.

## 8\. Keep it cool and clean

Dust blocks the fan and makes the laptop throttle itself. Use it on a hard surface, not a bed, and have the vents cleaned if the fan is always loud.

## Upgrades that make the biggest difference

| Upgrade               | Why it helps                                                           |
| --------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| HDD → SSD             | Much faster boot and app loading; often the biggest single improvement |
| 4GB → 8GB RAM         | More tabs and apps without freezing                                    |
| Fresh Windows install | Clears years of clutter (back up first)                                |

Check what your laptop has first: [how to check your laptop specifications](https://chale.tech/check-your-laptop-specifications/).

**Still on Windows 10?** Microsoft ended support on 14 October 2025: no more regular security updates. If your laptop can run Windows 11, upgrade; if not, consider Microsoft’s paid Extended Security Updates or a newer laptop.

*This guide was checked in October 2026\. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.*

## Common questions

### What is the single best upgrade for a slow laptop?

Replacing a hard disk (HDD) with an SSD usually makes the biggest difference to boot and app loading times.

### Will more RAM speed up my laptop?

If you have 4GB and run a browser with many tabs, moving to 8GB often helps a lot. Check whether your laptop’s RAM can be upgraded.

### Do PC cleaner apps work?

Many are unnecessary or bundle adware. Use Windows’ built-in tools or Microsoft PC Manager.

### My laptop runs Windows 10\. Is that a problem?

Microsoft ended Windows 10 support on 14 October 2025, so it no longer gets regular security updates. Upgrade if your laptop supports Windows 11.

## Sources

- [Microsoft Support: Tips to improve PC performance in Windows](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/experience/performance-optimization/tips-to-improve-pc-performance-in-windows?ref=chale.tech)
- [Microsoft Support: Windows 10 support has ended on October 14, 2025](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/deployment/updates-lifecycle/windows-10-support-has-ended-on-october-14-2025?ref=chale.tech)
- [Microsoft: Windows 10 Extended Security Updates](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/extended-security-updates?ref=chale.tech)