Macbooks are known for their longevity and durability. However, you are still bound to encounter some performance problems. There are a lot of elements that can determine the overall performance of the Mac.

The most important thing is to have a regular maintenance routine. If you create a strategy and stick to it, you will be able to maintain your computer in good shape for years. Cleaning dust inside, updating the OS, and keeping enough free space in the hard drive should be one of the priorities. Especially the last one.

There are a lot of things that Mac users can boast of having, but a lot of available storage space on their computer is not one of them. Read the methods below, and you will find out what can be done to keep more than just a few gigabytes of free space on the Macbook's drive.

Method #1 - Remove Junk Data

Starting with junk data like caches and old backups is a good idea. You will not find these files like you would others. And while deleting them manually is an option, it is pretty inefficient due to how many files there are, and removing them manually would take time. On top of that, you will also have to tinker with the settings of the computer and create backups in case of deleting something accidentally.

Instead, find a cleanup utility tool that will do the work for you. You can go online and compare uninstallers before deciding what to get yourself.

Method #2 - Get Rid of Useless Applications

Applications can be removed without much hesitation, especially if you have not used some of them for a long time. You can always go to the app store and re-download the application again.

Also, when you remove an application, remember that the cache files and other junk will still remain on the computer. Lastly, when you drag it into the Trash Bin, make sure to empty it.

Method #3 - Delete Email Attachments and Downloads

Doing a lot of work or communications via emails, in general, most likely means that you open a lot of attachments. These attachments get saved on the Mac by default. And it could be that there are more of them than you expected.

A similar thing can be said about downloads. If you are not careful, the number of these files can grow quite a lot.

The bottom line is that you need to remove them regularly and make sure that they are not taking precious disk space.

Method #4 - Look for Language Pack Files

Some applications come with large language packs. However, the reality is that you only need the English version and maybe one other language that you are fluent in. But as far as the rest of the pack goes, it offers nothing of value.

You can delete unnecessary languages from the computer without worrying too much. Or when installing such applications next time, pay attention as there should be an option to select which languages you want to add.

Method #5 - Transfer Data to Clouds

Cloud services, such as Dropbox and iCloud, are a great solution for those who have some data they would like to keep in a safe place and free up drive space at the same time.

By default, clouds are free, but if you are happy with what they provide, you can always look to upgrade the plan by paying some money and receiving extra storage space. The data can be accessed so long as you have an internet connection.

Method #6 - Purchase External Storage Devices

External storage devices like flash drives are very similar to clouds in terms of what they offer to users. It is just that some people are not that trusty with clouds and would prefer to keep their files in devices they can actually touch. Of course, combining the two is the most optimal option, but having alternatives also helps for those who have different preferences.

Method #7 - Scan System for Viruses

There are all kinds of malware and viruses. If you notice that the disk space is starting to shrink all of a sudden, it would be worth it to scan the system and eliminate any corrupted files if an antivirus finds any.

Method #8 - Subscribe to Streaming Platforms

Streaming platforms like Netflix eliminate the need to keep large media files on the computer. Having access to movies and TV shows is quite convenient. Music should also not be a problem, thanks to the likes of Spotify.

Method #9 - Reinstall the OS

When you notice that things are not going that well despite your best efforts, consider reinstalling the OS. It will give the computer a fresh start, including the hard drive. Though it is worth mentioning that you can back up some of your files using Time Machine or another tool.