How to think about troubleshooting your computer

If your computer has been slowing down or showing its age, you might not need to replace it just yet. Wirecutter senior staff writer Kimber Streams, who covers laptops and accessories, shares practical steps for reviving an old machine—and how to tell when it’s finally time for an upgrade.

Kimber explains what causes computers to slow down over time, the simplest DIY fixes that can make a big difference, and what to look for if you do end up needing to shop for a replacement. See more of Kimber’s tips in this article on reviving an old computer. 

This episode covers:

• Cleaning up storage and files: Freeing up storage is one of the simplest ways to make a computer feel faster. Check what’s taking up space and remove any and all unnecessary files.
• Tidying apps and removing unused apps: Kimber recommends uninstalling unused apps that come pre-installed on your laptop, plus any unused browser extensions, that may be slowing down your system.
• Why you should update your computer’s operating system: Kimber emphasizes the importance of software updates for both security and performance.
• When it’s time to consider buying a new computer: If you’ve completed all of the housekeeping steps and find that your computer still isn’t functioning the way it should, it’s time to look at your budget and what you need in a new computer.
• Guidance for buying refurbished and secondhand computers: Kimber recommends only buying from manufacturer refurbished programs, and to be wary of retailer refurbs if you can’t see the item in person and judge the condition yourself. Look for a refurbished computer with the longest warranty possible.

P.S. If you have a spill, we don’t recommend using rice to dry your tech. Here’s why!

Products we recommend:

• Our favorite refurbished laptop: Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, M4, 2025)
• Our favorite Windows laptop: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus
• Our favorite performance upgrade: Apple MacBook Air (M1, 2020)
• Our favorite online backup service: IDrive
• Our favorite lap desk: LapGear Designer Lap Desk

Additional reading:

• How to Make Your Old Computer Feel New Again
• The 8 Best Laptops of 2025
• How to Shop for a Used Laptop or Desktop PC
• The Best Cheap Laptops Under $500 for 2025 
• The 5 Best Windows Laptops of 2025
• 4 Simple Tips to Keep Your Tech Safe and Dry This Summer 2025
• Windows 10 Is Dead. But You Might Not Need a New Laptop Yet.

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

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The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast