Apple’s range of portable and desktop computers, generally referred to as Macs, are powerful devices that facilitate users to perform any type of computational task with finesse. They are powered by potent CPUs that make performing even the most complex and graphics-intensive computational tasks with ease.
However, despite featuring high-performing Intel or Apple Silicon chipsets, there are times when Macs’ CPU usage increases way more than usual, causing a variety of problems, all of which prevent users from using the devices seamlessly.
This article will cover what happens when a Mac’s CPU usage exceeds the normal limit and shed light on multiple related aspects. Let us begin:
The Downsides of High CPU Usage on Macs:
When a Mac’s CPU usage becomes higher than usual, it starts exhibiting numerous issues. Here are some of the most common downsides of high CPU usage:
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Bad Performance
When a Mac consumes more CPU resources than usual, it deteriorates the device’s performance. For example, when users open an application or program, it takes more time than usual to start. Besides this, users also find it difficult to perform the simplest tasks, such as opening a file or folder, when their Mac’s CPU usage is more than usual.
As long as a Mac consumes the required amount of CPU resources, the device works fine. However, when the limit is exceeded, Macs start lagging and stuttering. In some cases, they even shut down or restart abruptly. This significantly hampers the productivity of users.
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Overheating
Another downside of a Mac using more CPU resources than required is overheating. Unfortunately, there are times when Macs start heating up, especially MacBooks, due to excessive CPU usage. When this happens, it becomes uncomfortable for users to continue using their Macs and performing tasks smoothly.
Moreover, if a Mac’s temperature is way above the usual mark, the chances of the internal components getting damaged also increase significantly. Overheating is a serious issue that no Mac user should take lightly since it may lead to bigger issues.
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Freezing
Macs perform exceptionally well most of the time. However, on rare occasions, they freeze when performing important tasks. This happens because the device requires more CPU resources than what is available. Therefore, when a Mac freezes, chances are that it might be due to excessive CPU usage.
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Abrupt Shutdowns
Another prominent downside of excessive CPU usage is abrupt shutdowns. When a Mac’s CPU usage increases more than it is supposed to, the devices freeze and shut down when the user is performing any task. Sudden shutdowns result in data and progress loss. Therefore, they are highly feared by users.
Which Activities Result in Excessive CPU Usage in Macs?
Here are some of the most common activities when Macs use excessive CPU resources, which in turn cause numerous issues:
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Multitasking
Macs are highly capable devices that facilitate users to work on multiple tasks at once. However, when users run two or more CPU-hogging applications at the same time, it spikes background processes like the mac OS Windows Server and results in excessive CPU usage.
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Video Editing
macOS supports multiple advanced video editors such as Final Cut Pro X, DaVinci Resolve, etc. When editing or rendering high-quality videos, there are instances when Macs use more CPU resources than usual to complete the task. This results in excessive CPU usage, which in turn causes performance-related and other internal problems.
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Gaming
Thanks to the powerful chips featured in the latest Macs, Mac owners can indulge in intense gaming. Although Macs are capable of running graphics-intensive games, some game titles may be more demanding than others, thereby causing an increase in CPU usage.
Tips to Reduce High CPU Usage on Macs:
Here are some effective tips following which macOS users can reduce their Apple computers’ CPU usage:
- One of the best ways to prevent Macs from using excessive CPU resources is to download and install the latest software updates whenever they are available since doing so often fixes internal app issues, causing a spike in CPU usage.
- Another effective way of decreasing a Mac’s CPU usage is by identifying and getting rid of, i.e., uninstalling problematic applications and programs that are unnecessarily using excess CPU resources.
- Removing or disabling login items or startup applications is another effective method of reducing high CPU usage on Macs. To do so, all individuals need to do is open the System Preferences section’s “Users and Groups” tab and click on “Login Items” to get the job done.
Final Thoughts:
As mentioned above, there are numerous downsides of excessive CPU usage on Macs, including slow and laggy performance, overheating, freezing, etc. Fortunately, there are multiple methods following which individuals can keep their CPU usage in check. Doing so will ensure that their Macs function smoothly and efficiently, thereby allowing users to get any task done without interruptions.
