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Boost Your Productivity
Maximize your Mac with these tools and softwares. Pixabay.com

A Mac is one of the most powerful devices you can invest in, whether for work, school or leisure. However, as with any gadget, it can slow down after years of use and tons of documents, photos, videos and clutter.

If you're suffering from a lagging Mac and wondering how to optimize your device, you've come to the right place. We rounded up some of the best tools and software to help you rev up and optimize your system like it's brand new.

1. CleanMyMac X

CleanMyMac
Clean tons of junk and make your Mac run faster with CleanMyMac. Macpaw.com

CleanMyMac X is a great all-in-one tool that helps you monitor your Mac's files and performance while also guarding it against malware. Using its cleaning function, it searches for unnecessary files like outdated caches, broken downloads and logs, as well as trash in your iTunes, Mail and Photos. It also lists down large hidden files which you may want to delete. After the scan, all it takes is one click to delete all the files you no longer need.

Aside from its cleaning function, CleanMyMac also has an optimization function that frees up RAM, runs maintenance scripts, manages Login Items and Launch Applications which heavily contribute to your system's loading time. Shutting down all unnecessary processes will help speed up your Mac.

Its integrated malware, adware and ransomware finder also helps keep your Mac safe from macOS-dedicated viruses. So aside from cleaning and optimization, you also get the benefit of a safe and secure computer.

2. ClearVPN

ClearVPN
ClearVPN helps in making sure that you stay secure as you browse the internet. Macpaw.com

ClearVPN powers up your browsing activities. It provides you with ready-made shortcuts to the best servers so you can access blocked websites, encrypt your connection or enjoy an improved gaming experience.

ClearVPN works by filtering the location, network settings and content demands depending on your region. Unlike other apps, this tool has a unique DynamicFlow technology that optimizes your network settings based on your needs. It also has a nice user interface making it easy to navigate through the options.

If you're worried about your security, this tool has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn't store, share, or collect any of your online activity, personal info and even your IP address. Rest assured that when it comes to security, you can trust this tool.

3. CleanMyDrive 2

CleanMyDrive 2
Make your drive management easier with CleanMyDrive 2. Macpaw.com

If you need an easy-to-use lightweight drive manager for your Mac, then the CleanMyDrive 2 is a nifty choice. This tool can be used to drag-and-drop files directly to any drive, check disk stats and automatically clean hidden junk from any external drives.

One of the highlights of this tool is that it has an easy-to-use interface that takes up little space with practically no system resources. Just click on the CleanMyDrive 2 icon and you can immediately see the status of your drives.

The tool works with SSD, external hard drives, SD cards and more, which is a nice option if you have multiple drives for different purposes.

4. Setapp

Setapp
Get all the apps you need in one subscription price. Macpaw.com

If you want to save yourself from the struggle of browsing through tons and tons of apps in the App Store, Setapp has your back. Setapp is a single subscription service that gives you access to a collection of apps. In fact, you get more than 200 tools that you can use for any task.

Aside from your Mac, the subscription also gives you access to apps for your iPhone or iPad. Every app is screened to make sure that everything is of top quality. It also runs in a variety of languages like French, Spanish and Italian.

5. Gemini 2

Gemini 2
Remove duplicate files easily with the Gemini 2. Macpaw.com

Another way to easily detect and delete duplicate files which may take up unnecessary space in your device is through the Gemini 2. The app works by scanning your whole disk in just minutes and gives you a list of all duplicate files. You can either manually choose the files you want to erase or let the "Smart Select" feature do the picking for you.

The app does not just detect duplicates, it also spots lookalike files. This is a unique feature that helps you filter through photos or even music on your laptop so you can select which ones you want to keep. Gemini's algorithm is designed to remember what you delete and what you choose to keep. This way, it learns to think the way you do when sorting out files.

Aside from its awesome features, it also has a user-friendly interface which won the 2017 Red Dot Award for Interface Design.

6. Encrypto

Encrypto
Protect your files with AES-256 encryption. Macpaw.com

For users who frequently transfer files, Encrypto is your go-to app for added security. It uses AES-256 encryption which is military-grade security. Essentially, this type of encryption uses more processing power in encrypting and decrypting information making it significantly difficult to crack.

The tool also has a unique embedded password hint so you no longer need to relay a password to your intended recipient. Encrypto also supports sending files via e-mail, Messages, AirDrop and even Dropbox. You can also encrypt files on your personal device. Simply drag them over to the Encrypto app and they automatically become protected.

Security doesn't need to be complicated. Encrypto makes securing files for whatever reason easier. It's a great choice, especially for beginners.