Why Is ChatGPT Slow and 7 Ways to Make It Run Faster
Is your ChatGPT running slow? You're not alone. This guide covers why ChatGPT is slow and how to make it run faster.
In recent days, my ChatGPT desktop app for macOS has been running slow and laggy, especially when I try to copy the results it outputs. It's been driving me crazy, so I've been Googling and trying a lot of things to get it to work smoothly again. Considering that you might be experiencing the same issue, I wrote this post to explain why ChatGPT is slow and a few ways to make it run faster. Hopefully, it'll be useful to you, too.
Why Is ChatGPT Slow?
Before diving into the solutions, let's figure out why ChatGPT is running slow. Here are some reasons behind this issue:
- Unstable internet connection
- Heavy access to ChatGPT (paid versions have priority access)
- Insufficient resources on your Mac/PC/mobile device
- Issues with browser cache or cookies
- Running multiple tasks at the same time
- Internal errors
- Using complex prompts
- High server load or peak usage times
- Inadequate device performance
- Long-running conversations
7 Proven Ways to Make Your ChatGPT Run Faster
1. Check Your Internet Connection
Whether using the web or the desktop version of ChatGPT, you need a stable internet connection. When your internet connection is unstable, you may find that ChatGPT is slow to respond or even unresponsive. Here are some things to try if ChatGPT is running slow:
- Reconnect to Wi-Fi or cellular data
- Turn Airplane mode on and off
- Try connecting to ChatGPT on another device
- Reset your network settings
2. Check Server Load
Since ChatGPT is extremely popular worldwide, when many users are accessing it at the same time, the servers can become congested, slowing down response times. It's advisable to avoid peak hours or upgrade to a paid plan for priority access.
3. Check if Your Mac/PC/Mobile Is Underpowered
ChatGPT can be used on a browser, computer, or mobile phone. Its working speed depends on the configuration of your device. If you feel that ChatGPT is slow on your device, it might be necessary to check if it has enough storage space and memory.
If you’re using a Mac, consider using the best Mac cleaner, BuhoCleaner, to quickly free up space. This tool integrates cleaning, optimization, and maintenance in one place, making it ideal for keeping your Mac running at peak performance, whether it’s powered by Apple Silicon or Intel chips.
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4. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
If the ChatGPT web version runs slowly, it's necessary to clear the cache and cookies in your browser. Here's how:
- Open the browser you're using ChatGPT.
- Go to its settings.
- Find the Clear Cache and Clear Cookies options and follow the onscreen instructions to delete them.
- Check if ChatGPT works faster.
5. Stop Unnecessary Background Tasks
Running multiple tasks simultaneously can slow down ChatGPT’s response speed. Quit unnecessary apps and stop the resource-hogging processes running in the background.
Follow these steps:
- On Macs: Open Terminal, select unwanted apps and processes, click the Close button, and click Quit.
- On PCs: Open Task Manager, switch to the "Processes" tab, select the process you want to end, right-click on it, and choose "End task".
- On iPhones: Swipe up from the bottom of your iPhone screen, pause for a second, and then swipe up the app you want to quit.
6. Limit Complex Queries
Long and complex prompts can increase the calculation load for ChatGPT, which may influence response speed. Try simplifying your queries to see if it speeds things up.
7. Clear Chat History
Last but not least, clear your chat history in ChatGPT. If you chat with ChatGPT frequently but have never cleared your history, go ahead and delete the unwanted conversations.
To clear all history with a single click, click your account name, select Settings > Data Controls, and then click the Delete All Chats button.
Last Word
This guide lists only 7 fixes, some of which worked for me. Hopefully, it helps. If none of these fixes speed up ChatGPT, try other methods frequently mentioned by community users, such as restarting ChatGPT, using a VPN, disabling browser extensions that may interfere with ChatGPT, etc.
Clare Phang has been captivated by the world of Apple products since the launch of the iconic iPhone in 2007. With a wealth of experience, Clare is your go-to source for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and all things Apple.
