How do your mac space free? Is the lack of hard drive space on a Macbook a problem that you are currently facing? Or maybe you are not sure what to do if your scratch disk is full? 

Free up space on Mac

Some MacBook owners struggle with keeping all the data they want on the computer. Thankfully, there are ways to fight against the problem. Follow the tips below, and you should end up with a hard drive that is in better condition than what you have right now.

Tip #1 – Check for Temporary Junk Data

Temporary junk files are a hindrance to your Macbook for more reasons than just taking hard drive space. The sheer volume of this data overburdens the system and reduces the overall performance of the computer.

So how does one remove unnecessary system junk on a Macbook? Well, there are two options. 

The first is to change the system settings and access hidden junk files to delete them manually. While it seems like a simple matter, you cannot underestimate the risks of accidentally deleting something important. Thus, you will need to create file backups. And deleting loads of files manually is not fun work.

The second option is a cleanup utility tool. Investing money in such software means that you can take care of temporary system data automatically. Launch the software and select which files you want to remove.

Tip #2 – Remove Unnecessary Apps

Remove applications that have been on the Macbook for a while and are no longer of any use to you. There might be a day when you need an app again, but why keep it around and let it consume the drive space when you can download the application later? 

Even if most apps do not take the most amount of space, getting rid of them will still help if you are looking to free up space on Mac HDD.

Tip #3 – Empty the Trash Can

Dragging files into the Trash Bin does not delete them permanently. You need to empty the Bin every time. Otherwise, all your efforts are naught because the files you want to remove end up in another location.

Thus, remember to empty the Trash Bin every time or enable the files inside the Trash Bin to get deleted automatically after 30 days.

Tip #4 – Look for Language Pack Files

Some apps have language support, and files for 50 or even more languages can take a surprising amount of space. You hardly need anything but the English version, so keeping other language data makes little sense.

Look through the files of your applications and delete redundant language pack files if you find any.

Tip #5 – Check Download and Email Folders

Email attachments accumulate fast if you rely on emails for communication and work. The download folder is similar. Some Mac owners forget about the files they have downloaded. 

Keep closer tabs on both email and download folders, and make sure that you get rid of files after they have served their purpose.

Tip #6 – Subscribe to Streaming Services

Streaming platforms like Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Netflix let you watch movies and TV shows on the go. Meanwhile, Spotify has most of the music you need.

These services eliminate the need to keep media files on the computer. Even if you have to pay a monthly fee to access the desired content, a few dollars should not be a problem for the sake of convenience and improve the situation for your Mac’s hard drive, right?

Tip #7 – Use Dropbox or iCloud

Dropbox, iCloud, and other cloud services are good choices if you want to take an approach that does not revolve around deleting every file.

Clouds are free with an option to upgrade. A couple of bucks for extra storage sounds like a good deal, especially when it is such a safe location to keep your data.

Tip #8 – Get External HDD or Memory Stick

Similar to clouds, external hard drives, memory sticks, and DVDs also serve as a location to store your data and access it later. Devices like external HDDs and memory sticks do not have to be brand-new to do the job. You can get them from second-hand stores or people who are selling these devices online.

Tip #9 – Reinstall OS

Sometimes, giving the computer a fresh start is the best option. If you are not happy with your hard drive’s status despite trying every tip in the article, there is still an option to reinstall the operating system.

Conclution 

The process is a bit complicated for first-timers, so be sure to read in-depth guides or ask someone who can help you. Also, remember to use Time Machine and create backups of data since your files will get wiped after you reinstall the OS.