Google Chrome is using 4 to 6 GB of RAM and my computer slows to a crawl. I need Chrome for work so I can't just stop using it.
Chrome uses a separate process for every tab and extension, which is why memory usage grows quickly. Start by checking your extensions: type chrome://extensions in the address bar and disable or remove any you do not actively use. Extensions like ad blockers, password managers, and productivity tools each consume 50 to 200 MB. Keep only essentials. Next, reduce open tabs. If you tend to keep 20 or more tabs open, install a tab management extension like OneTab or The Great Suspender which unloads inactive tabs from memory. Enable Chrome's built-in Memory Saver: go to Chrome Settings, Performance, and turn on Memory Saver. This automatically frees memory from tabs you have not used recently. Also check for runaway tabs: press Shift+Esc inside Chrome to open its built-in Task Manager. Sort by Memory and close any tab using excessive resources — often a tab running complex JavaScript or auto-playing video. Finally, if your computer has only 4 to 8 GB of RAM, consider upgrading. Chrome with modern web apps realistically needs 8 GB minimum for a smooth experience, and 16 GB is ideal for heavy tab users.
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