too much cache files.

is it normal on a M1 max 16" macbook pro to have 10GB - 14GB on cache files? i use it for 1+ month and from the first day has too much files in cache and i dont know why..I also have seen some users report this "problem" i dont know if its problem but the most users has less than a half of mine cache files

Posted on Jan 14, 2023 07:00 AM

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Posted on Jan 14, 2023 07:48 AM

"Unused RAM is wasted RAM."


By design, your Mac holds on to files you have recently read, and a certain amount of Web content. if needed, cached files are instantly discarded to provide more RAM for running Applications.


If that offends you, you are welcome to throw away caches. Close extra web browser windows, especially ones with moving pictures. For a thorough clearing, Choose "Restart" off the  menu.


As long as the activity monitor Memory Pressure graph is all green, you are fine. Below is an example of NOT fine, transitioning to OK:


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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 14, 2023 07:48 AM in response to antonisx93

"Unused RAM is wasted RAM."


By design, your Mac holds on to files you have recently read, and a certain amount of Web content. if needed, cached files are instantly discarded to provide more RAM for running Applications.


If that offends you, you are welcome to throw away caches. Close extra web browser windows, especially ones with moving pictures. For a thorough clearing, Choose "Restart" off the  menu.


As long as the activity monitor Memory Pressure graph is all green, you are fine. Below is an example of NOT fine, transitioning to OK:


Jan 14, 2023 08:19 AM in response to antonisx93

Most of these memory management changes were introduced in MacOS 10.9 Mavericks. One additional one that may be unexpected is 'compressed'.


detailed analysis found that much of what is typically in memory typically get smaller if compressed using advanced algorithms that are very fast. it is far faster to compress than to 'Swap' stuff out onto a disk drive, even a fast SSD disk drive.


When memory starts to get tight, you may see "compressed" increase slightly.

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too much cache files.

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