Chromebook Running Slow? 7 Fixes
Chromebooks are simple, until they slow down. Then they're simple AND frustrating. Here's the real list of fixes that work, focused on the lower-RAM models most people own.
Quick fix to try first
Close half your tabs. Each tab uses memory, and Chromebooks have less RAM than typical laptops. If you have 15+ tabs open, that's almost certainly your problem. Bookmark the ones you want to come back to, then close them.
1. Restart the Chromebook properly
Don't just close the lid. Hold the power button, then sign out and shut down. Wait 30 seconds. Power back on. Clears memory and stuck processes.
2. Close unnecessary tabs and apps
Right-click any tab and pick Close other tabs to keep just the one you need. Or use the Task Manager (Shift + Esc) to see what's using the most memory and close the worst offenders.
3. Turn off extensions you don't use
Extensions run constantly. Type chrome://extensions in the address bar and disable anything you don't actively need. Especially remove "coupon helper" or "shopping" extensions, which are notorious for slowing things down.
4. Clear browsing data
Settings > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data > All time. Check Cookies and Cached files. Click Clear. You'll be signed out of sites, but Chromebook will feel faster.
5. Update Chrome OS
Settings > About ChromeOS > Check for updates. Updates often include performance improvements.
If your Chromebook says it's "no longer receiving updates," the device has hit its Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date. It will keep working but won't get new features or security updates. Time to consider a newer model.
6. Powerwash (factory reset)
The most reliable fix for persistent slowness. Because Chromebooks store almost everything in the cloud, a factory reset doesn't actually cost you much.
- Settings > Advanced > Reset settings
- Click Powerwash
- Confirm and wait 5-10 minutes
- Sign back in with your Google account
Your Drive, Gmail, bookmarks, and saved passwords return automatically. Locally-saved files do not, so check the Files app first if you have anything important.
7. Check storage (especially on cheaper models)
Entry-level Chromebooks have 32-64 GB of storage and fill up faster than people expect.
Open Files app > check My Files > Downloads. Delete what you don't need. Move important things to Google Drive (free 15 GB).
When it's time for a new Chromebook
If your Chromebook is more than 5 years old, has only 4 GB of RAM, and you've done everything here, hardware is the limit. Modern Chromebooks with 8+ GB of RAM run circles around old ones. A good mid-range Chromebook is $300-500 new.
Video walkthrough
Video by ChromebookHQ on YouTube
Still slow after Powerwash?
If a Powerwash didn't help, your Chromebook is either at the end of its useful life or has a hardware issue. We can advise.