Laptop running slow: how to fix (UK 2025) — a tailored, craftsmanship-first guide
Laptop running slow: how to fix (UK 2025) — a tailored, craftsmanship-first guide
If your laptop has started feeling sluggish—taking ages to boot, stuttering in video calls, and pausing when you open too many tabs—you’re not alone. In the UK, many users now keep laptops for 5+ years and prefer repairs and upgrades over buying new, which makes a diagnostic approach essential. Think of this like a luxury suit: the best results come from careful tailoring—starting with the easiest software fixes, then fine-tuning cooling, and, when needed, upgrading with quality materials. This step-by-step guide prioritises value at every budget, from simple airflow improvements to transformative SSD and RAM upgrades. Follow the sequence below to avoid unnecessary spend and get the most performance for your money.
Key takeaways / Summary
- Start simple: restart weekly, remove heavy startup apps, clear space, and scan for malware. These fixes cost nothing and often restore speed.
- Biggest boosts: upgrading to an SSD and ensuring at least 8GB RAM—backed by research highlighting storage type and memory as dominant performance factors.
- Thermal control matters: improving airflow reduces CPU throttling and stabilises speed. A well-built riser or workstation can deliver consistent performance under load.
- Price ranges on cooling stands to stabilise performance:
- Kensington 60112 SmartFit EasyRiser Laptop Cooling Stand: £29.60
- Fellowes 8032001 Laptop Riser: £36.46
- Fellowes 8024602 Pro Laptop Workstation: £66.34
- Top brands featured: Kensington and Fellowes—solid, ergonomic accessories designed to enhance airflow and comfort.
- Best features to look for: enhanced airflow, height adjustment, sturdy build (metal construction where available), and anti‑slip stability.
- What to look for in upgrades:
- SSD (for faster boots/app launches): Shop internal SSD drives
- RAM (target at least 8GB): Find compatible laptop RAM
- Clean Windows install if software bloat persists: Get a fresh Windows license
- Budget vs premium: Like choosing between ready‑to‑wear and an Italian‑crafted suit, select accessories that match your use—affordable airflow stands for quick gains, or a durable metal workstation for long‑term performance and ergonomics.
- When to consider replacement: If the device can’t be upgraded to SSD/8GB RAM or has multiple failing components. Refurbished is a strong value route in a UK market growing toward £753.64m by 2033.
Your flowchart to a faster laptop (software → cooling → upgrade → replace)
- Software fixes first: restart, clear storage, trim startups, update OS/drivers, and scan for malware.
- Stabilise thermals: improve airflow to prevent throttling and keep performance consistent under load.
- Upgrade essentials: move to an SSD and at least 8GB RAM for the most noticeable improvement.
- Reinstall Windows if needed: when corruption or bloat persists.
- Decide to upgrade vs replace: use the decision matrix below.
Step 1 — Software quick wins (low effort, high impact)
Common slowdowns stem from RAM limits, a nearly-full drive, or too many background apps. Symptoms include long boot times and browser lag. Start here to avoid unnecessary spend, and re-test after each change so you can pinpoint what worked.
1A. Restart and trim startup apps
- Restart weekly. In Windows, press Ctrl+Shift+Esc → Startup tab → disable heavy apps you don’t need at boot.
- Uninstall apps you no longer use (Settings → Apps → Installed apps).
When to try: Boot feels slow, fans ramp at idle, or the taskbar freezes after login.
Required tools/products: None. If issues persist after a tidy-up, consider an OS refresh via Get a fresh Windows license.
Success indicators: Faster login, fewer background processes, quieter fan noise at idle.
1B. Run a malware and PUA scan
- Use reputable security tools to scan for malware and potentially unwanted applications (PUAs), which often cause lag.
Required tools/products: Anti-virus and security tools.
Success indicators: CPU usage drops at idle, browsers stop redirecting or spawning pop‑ups, and apps open more predictably.
1C. Clear space and check storage health
- Keep at least 15–20% free space on your system drive. Use Storage Sense (Settings → System → Storage) to remove temporary files.
- Move large files to a secondary drive if available.
Required tools/products: Shop internal SSD drives for a primary drive upgrade, or Add or replace internal hard drives to offload bulk files.
Success indicators: Faster file search, smoother app updates, fewer “disk full” warnings.
1D. Update Windows and drivers
- Windows Update → Check for updates. Update graphics and storage drivers via Device Manager if you suspect conflicts.
When to try: After software clean-up if slowdowns persist, especially with games, video calls, or creative apps.
Success indicators: Smoother video calls, fewer app crashes, improved battery life.
1E. Check power mode and browser extensions
- Set Windows power mode to Balanced or Best performance when plugged in (Settings → System → Power & battery).
- In your browser, disable or remove heavy extensions you don’t use; too many can cause tab lag.
Success indicators: Fewer slowdowns when multitasking, quicker tab switching, more responsive apps while on mains power.
Step 2 — Stabilise performance with better cooling (reduce thermal throttling)
Heat is a silent performance killer. Under sustained load, CPUs throttle to protect themselves, leading to stutter and slow app launches. Improving airflow can restore consistent speeds—a simple, affordable fix that often pays for itself. Here’s a curated trio of stands from Kensington and Fellowes that focus on airflow and ergonomics, much like upgrading to quality materials and refined tailoring in a luxury suit.
Kensington 60112 SmartFit EasyRiser Laptop Cooling Stand
£29.60
Brand: Kensington
Material: plastic
- Enhances airflow with an open, elevated design
- Improves comfort during usage with angle/height adjustment
- Anti‑slip feet and device grips for stable typing
- Lightweight, fold‑flat for easy storage and travel
Fellowes 8032001 Laptop Riser
£36.46
Brand: Fellowes
Material: —
- Height adjustable for ergonomic eye‑line alignment
- Supports up to 5kg for added stability with larger laptops
- Open back/side design to promote passive airflow
- Rubberised feet reduce wobble and protect the desk
Fellowes 8024602 Pro Laptop Workstation
£66.34
Brand: Fellowes
Material: metal
- Includes cashback offer till December 2025
- Stylish and functional design with a durable metal frame
- Open-frame construction to aid cooling and cable routing
- Built for daily use—stable platform for heavier workloads
When to try cooling stands: If your laptop slows down during video calls, light gaming, or when connected to an external display—classic signs of heat-induced throttling. Improving airflow can reduce CPU thermal throttling, directly boosting perceived speed.
Success indicators: More stable performance under load, fans ramp less often, and the keyboard area stays cooler.
For budget value, the Kensington SmartFit EasyRiser enhances airflow and comfort. The Fellowes Laptop Riser adds robust height adjustability and stability. If you prefer a premium, long‑term setup with a metal build—akin to choosing Italian‑crafted fabric for durability—the Fellowes Pro Laptop Workstation offers sturdy cooling and ergonomics plus a cashback offer till December 2025.
Step 3 — Targeted hardware upgrades (SSD and RAM)
Performance is strongly affected by storage type and RAM capacity. If software fixes and cooling help but don’t fully solve the issue, consider these upgrades—often the single biggest difference for older laptops. Many UK users are extending device life through upgrades, a sensible value-first move. Before buying, check your laptop’s upgradeability (model support for SSD/RAM, and whether parts are socketed or soldered in your service manual).
3A. Upgrade to an SSD
- Moving from a hard drive (HDD) to a solid-state drive (SSD) can cut boot times and app loading dramatically.
- If you already have an SSD, upgrading to a larger/faster model also helps when the drive is near capacity.
Where to buy: Shop internal SSD drives.
When to try: If your boot takes minutes, file transfers are very slow, or you hear frequent drive noise (on HDD systems).
Success indicators: Noticeably faster startup and app launches, smoother updates, reduced stutter when multitasking.
3B. Increase RAM to at least 8GB
- Running many browser tabs and apps simultaneously needs memory headroom. Research widely recommends 8GB for smoother multitasking in 2025.
- Check your laptop’s RAM limits and format (SODIMM DDR4/DDR5, etc.) before purchasing.
Where to buy: Find compatible laptop RAM.
When to try: If the system slows when multiple tabs/apps are open or you see memory-related warnings.
Success indicators: Fewer “Not Responding” moments, smoother video calls while multitasking, and more stable browser performance.
Step 4 — Clean install of Windows (when bloat or corruption persists)
If slowdowns persist even after trimming startups, clearing space, and upgrading hardware, a clean OS install can reset performance. Back up your files first, then install fresh. After reinstalling, only add essential apps to keep the system lean.
Where to get Windows: Get a fresh Windows license.
When to try: Long-standing errors, persistent malware, or severe system corruption.
Success indicators: Clean, snappy desktop behaviour with no inherited software issues.
Step 5 — Decision matrix: upgrade vs replace in 2025 (UK)
Once you’ve stabilised software and thermals and considered core upgrades, weigh the total cost and lifespan you’ll gain. Use the guidelines below to decide pragmatically.
-
Upgrade now if:
- Your laptop supports SSD and RAM upgrades (up to or beyond 8GB).
- Thermal throttling is the main issue—airflow accessories restore stability.
- Chassis and key components (screen, keyboard, ports) are in good condition.
-
Replace (or go refurbished) if:
- Storage and RAM are soldered and capped at low capacities that don’t meet your workload.
- Multiple components are failing (e.g., battery, hinge, display), making repair uneconomical.
- You need new features (e.g., Wi‑Fi 6E, better webcam) that your current platform can’t support.
Refurbished laptops are a value-forward, sustainable option—especially pertinent as the UK refurbished market is projected to grow from 421.68 million to 753.64 million by 2033. If performance issues are solvable with SSD/RAM upgrades, prioritise that first; otherwise, a carefully chosen refurbished model can be both budget‑friendly and responsible.
Buying advice through the lens of craftsmanship and value
A great fix is about more than raw specs; it’s about thoughtful, tailored choices. Like a luxury suit cut from quality fabric, well-made accessories and durable materials help your laptop perform at its best—day after day. For lighter budgets, the Kensington stand is an excellent airflow and comfort boost. For a mid-budget, the height‑adjustable Fellowes riser offers sturdy placement and stability up to 5kg. For a premium, long-term workstation built from metal, the Fellowes Pro Workstation blends function and longevity—smart craftsmanship for a device you rely on daily.
SMBs and IT leads: fleet tuning that respects budgets
For small businesses managing multiple devices, standardising on airflow stands and planned SSD/RAM upgrades can extend fleet life by years, reduce support tickets tied to heat and storage issues, and improve employee comfort. For a strategic, value-first approach “tailored like a luxury suit,” see our business guide: Bulk laptop purchasing guide for businesses 2025: tailored like a luxury suit, built for value.
Tools and products used in this guide
- Cooling/Ergonomics:
- Upgrades:
- Software:
Printable troubleshooting checklist (UK 2025)
Use this as your one-page, tailored plan—like a checklist your favourite tailor would use to get the fit just right.
- Restart and disable unnecessary startup apps.
- Uninstall unused software and clear temporary files.
- Run a full malware and PUA scan: Anti-virus and security tools.
- Free up disk space; consider moving bulk files to a secondary drive: Add or replace internal hard drives.
- Update Windows and drivers; test performance again.
- Stabilise thermals with a cooling stand:
- Upgrade storage to an SSD: Shop internal SSD drives.
- Increase RAM to at least 8GB: Find compatible laptop RAM.
- Perform a clean Windows install if issues persist: Get a fresh Windows license.
- Reassess: If upgrades aren’t feasible, consider a quality refurbished replacement.
Potential video tutorial: what you’ll learn
- How to measure your current bottleneck (RAM vs storage vs thermals).
- How to manage startups and clear space safely.
- How to pick and set up a cooling stand for your desk height and posture.
- When an SSD or RAM upgrade offers best value—and how to plan the install.
- How to perform a clean Windows install the right way.
Want to be notified when our full walkthrough goes live? Keep an eye on our News page.
Troubleshooting FAQs (quick answers)
Q: My laptop is old. Is it worth upgrading?
A: If you can add an SSD and reach at least 8GB RAM—and your chassis, display, and battery are in solid condition—upgrading is usually great value. If upgrades aren’t possible or several parts are failing, plan for a replacement (refurbished is a strong, sustainable option in the UK).
Q: Will a cooling stand really make a difference?
A: Yes, if heat is your bottleneck. Improved airflow can reduce thermal throttling, which directly improves performance stability under sustained use—ideal for video calls, large spreadsheets, or light creative work.
Q: I’ve cleaned up software but it’s still slow. What next?
A: Prioritise an SSD if you’re on an HDD and increase RAM to 8GB or more. These are the most tangible upgrades backed by performance research.
Final recommendation
In 2025, the smartest path to a faster laptop is a tailored one: start with software clean-up, stabilise thermals with a well-crafted stand, and upgrade storage and memory where possible. Choose value at every step—like opting for quality materials and Italian craftsmanship when it counts. If your device can’t be improved cost‑effectively, a careful replacement plan (including refurbished) will keep budgets steady without compromising daily performance.