Did you just purchase a new MacBook and are eager to try it out? If so, it is understandable because the feeling of getting a new computer is quite nice.
However, some Mac owners may find it a bit difficult to get adjusted to their new device, particularly if they used Windows before switching to macOS.
There are a few things you should know to get the most out of your MacBook. The tips below should come in quite handy.
Update to the Latest macOS Version
It is recommended to run the latest macOS version, especially if you have a new Mac model. Older models might not be compatible with the latest macOS releases, but the most recent MacBooks are a different story.
Is it safe to update to Big Sur, which is the most recent version? Yes, safety is not an issue. If anything, having macOS up to date means that you do not miss out on safety improvements, in addition to better performance and new features.
Some updates may take a while to download and install. Nevertheless, you should still prioritize them for optimal Mac performance.
Free up Drive Space
Macs are not the best computers when it comes to total available storage space. You may run out of free gigabytes sooner than expected. When that happens, the laptop will struggle to run properly. Random crashes, freezes, and FPS drops are bound to ensue.
There are a few ways to make sure that your MacBook’s drive has enough free storage:
Remove app cache, plugins, extensions, and other temporary junk data
Stick to streaming platforms rather than hoarding large media files on the computer
Transfer data to external storage, such as hard drives, USB sticks, and cloud services
Clean the Dust Inside
Cleaning the dust inside the MacBook is another maintenance routine that you should manage yourself or leave the work to someone else.
The problem with removing a laptop’s dust is that taking the device apart is quite tricky. No experience means risking damage to the internal hardware. Ideally, you should leave the work to someone who knows what they are doing. Perhaps there is a computer service shop nearby that offers laptop cleaning services? If so, do not hesitate and take advantage of such services.
A dust-free MacBook will perform much better. You will not have to worry about hearing loud noises as often, nor will there be potential hazards to the internal hardware.
Be Wary of the Latest Cybersecurity Threats
Keep up with the latest cybersecurity news to know about potential threats that may attack your computer.
Overall, Macs are quite secure, but the odds of a virus or malware targeting your device are still there.
For the most part, a reliable anti-malware tool should be more than enough to prevent potential attacks, but taking extra measures might also be on your mind. After all, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Other than using reliable antivirus, you should also create a proper online password strategy, install an ad blocker extension to your internet browser, and rely on virtual private networks, especially when joining public Wi-Fi.
Invest in Accessories
Mac accessories can be quite expensive, but they are a good investment if you want to have a better overall experience with your new computer.
For example, if you are unhappy with the size of your Mac’s screen, get a monitor. Taking advantage of the recently introduced Sidecar feature is also one of the options. You can use an iPad as a second display, which comes in quite handy for someone like graphic designers, or even if you want to watch something for entertainment.
A mouse for gaming is worth a shout as well. If you enjoy playing video games on your MacBook, a mouse and a pad are more or less mandatory. A pair of AirPods for improving audio is quite popular as well.
Finally, there is an argument to be made about spending money on hardware upgrades if your Mac model is compatible with them. Extra RAM, an SSD instead of an HDD, and even an eGPU might be something you would like.
Take Advantage of Built-in Tools
There are plenty of great built-in tools in macOS. iMovies are there for editing videos, Spotlight offers unit conversions and calculations, Music app lets you listen to nice tunes, and Dictation lets you speak the words and have them appear on the computer without bothering to type.
Memorize Keyboard Shortcuts
The last piece of advice in this article is about memorizing Mac keyboard shortcuts. You do not need to remember every sequence. Instead, visit the official Apple site and find the shortcut list. Choose relevant combinations and work on memorizing them. Knowing more MacBook keyboard shortcuts means having better productivity on the computer.