To make a new Windows laptop feel faster and less cluttered, start with Windows Update, review startup apps, uninstall only programs you recognize and no longer use, then inspect storage and resource use. These built-in steps are safer than deleting system files or running an unfamiliar “debloat” tool. The right fix depends on what is slowing the laptop—startup load, full storage, background activity, malware, or hardware limits.
Start with the low-risk fixes
1. Install available Windows updates
Open Settings > Windows Update and check for updates. Install available updates, then restart if Windows asks. Updates can include fixes and performance improvements; optional driver updates may also help in some cases. Microsoft does not promise a substantial speed increase from updates or settings changes, particularly on older or constrained hardware. Microsoft’s Windows performance guidance covers Windows 11 and Windows 10.
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2. Review what starts with Windows
Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager, then select Startup apps. Disable apps you do not need to launch automatically when you sign in. Startup apps can add to boot time and continue using resources in the background.
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Keep unfamiliar entries enabled until you identify them. In particular, do not disable software you rely on for security, device functions, or accessibility. Disabling a startup entry usually stops automatic launch; it does not uninstall the app.
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3. Uninstall only apps you know you do not use
In Windows 11, open Settings > Apps > Installed apps; in Windows 10, use Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Select a familiar, unwanted program and choose Uninstall if that option is available. You can also uninstall some programs from the Start menu or Control Panel. Microsoft explains these methods in its guide to uninstalling or removing Windows apps and programs.
There is no universal list of preinstalled apps that every laptop owner should remove: bundles vary, and an app that looks unfamiliar may support a device feature you use. Some built-in Windows apps cannot be uninstalled. If you cannot establish what a program does, leave it in place rather than removing it on guesswork.
Reduce clutter without deleting files blindly
Inspect storage before cleaning
Open Settings > System > Storage to see which categories are using space. The labels and available options can differ between Windows versions. Reviewing the categories first helps distinguish temporary files and unused apps from personal documents, photos, or files you still need.
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Use Storage Sense or Cleanup recommendations selectively
Storage Sense can remove selected temporary files and Recycle Bin contents. Cleanup recommendations can show categories such as temporary files, large or unused files, cloud-synced files, and unused apps. Review what Windows proposes and select only items you are comfortable removing; do not treat every suggested category as disposable. Microsoft’s guide to freeing drive space describes these built-in options.
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If large personal files are taking up space but you rarely need them on the laptop, you can move them to an external USB drive or portable external SSD. Check capacity, connector compatibility, and portability before choosing a drive. Files on external storage are available when that device is connected; moving files can relieve internal storage pressure, but it is not a direct CPU or memory upgrade.
Find out whether an app or resource is the bottleneck
Check current activity in Task Manager
Open Task Manager with Ctrl+Shift+Esc. In Processes, look for apps using substantial CPU, memory, or disk resources. The Performance view gives an overview of those resources. Close an app only if you recognize it and are not using it; ending an unfamiliar process can interrupt Windows or a device feature.
Scan for malware
If the laptop behaves unexpectedly or resource use remains high without an obvious app, run a virus scan in Windows Security. Do not disable security protection as a speed fix. Microsoft’s performance guidance also recommends checking for malware and reviewing apps that consume resources.
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Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Choose power and visual settings for your situation
Use Balanced for ordinary use; select Best performance when it suits the workload
Open Settings > System > Power & battery in Windows 11, or Settings > System > Power & sleep > Additional power settings in Windows 10, to review available power options. Balanced is a sensible everyday starting point for many users. Best performance may provide more performance headroom for demanding work, but it can use more power, drain the battery faster, and make the laptop warmer. Consider using it selectively, especially when plugged in. Available modes can depend on the device. See Microsoft’s instructions for changing Windows power mode.
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- CONNECTIVITY & PORTS: Includes 1× TF card slot, 2× USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, and 2× full-featured Type-C ports (USB 3.2 Gen1). The Type-C ports support data transfer, charging, and video output, enabling flexible connection with external devices such as monitors, storage, and peripherals for daily work and study use.
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN | ONLINE COMMUNICATION: Designed with a slim, portable profile, this laptop is easy to carry for school, commuting, and travel. A built-in 1MP front camera supports online classes, video meetings, remote communication, and everyday conferencing. The 3300mAh battery works with the low-power system design to support practical daily use, while thermal optimization helps maintain quieter operation during extended tasks.
Reduce visual effects only if you prefer the trade-off
Windows provides a visual-effects setting that can prioritize performance over some visual effects. This may help on a device where those effects contribute to sluggishness, but it changes the interface rather than fixing a full drive, a busy background app, malware, or a hardware limit. Treat it as an optional adjustment, not a required setup step.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Restart, reassess, and avoid risky “debloating”
- Save your work and close apps and browser tabs you do not need.
- Restart the laptop so updates and startup changes can take effect.
- Try the task that felt slow and check Task Manager if the problem remains. Persistent high CPU, memory, or disk use is a clue to investigate a specific process or device constraint.
Avoid registry edits, deleting Windows folders, disabling security features, or running unofficial debloat scripts as routine cleanup. These steps can remove functionality or make problems harder to diagnose, while the built-in tools above let you review changes before making them.
When a reset or hardware diagnosis is appropriate
A Windows reset is a last-resort troubleshooting step, not ordinary cleanup. Microsoft says the Keep my files reset option preserves personal files but removes apps and settings. Back up important data first, and make sure you have the BitLocker recovery key if device encryption is enabled. Read Microsoft’s Reset your PC guidance before proceeding.
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If the laptop remains slow after you identify and address the likely cause, settings changes may not produce a meaningful improvement—especially on older or constrained hardware. Microsoft’s guide to recognizing when it may be time for a new PC discusses signs that a device’s limits may be involved. Do not assume a new laptop is inherently slow or that every preinstalled app is harmful; diagnose the symptom before making bigger changes.
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