Why is Notion slow on my device?

Notion's performance issues on your device typically stem from a combination of hardware limitations, workspace complexity, and software compatibility factors. Recent engineering data shows that devices with less than 4GB of RAM on mobile or 8GB on desktop, along with older storage types like eMMC drives, experience significantly slower load times and data retrieval. Additionally, large workspaces with complex databases, thousands of pages, or heavily nested content can push memory usage beyond 1GB, creating substantial performance bottlenecks that affect even modern devices.

Your device's specifications play a crucial role in Notion's performance. Older CPUs with limited cores struggle with parallel processing, while outdated hardware acceleration capabilities can make UI interactions feel sluggish. If you're using unsupported platforms like Windows versions before 21H2, macOS below version 11, or older mobile devices like iPhone 6 or 7, you'll likely encounter persistent slowdowns. Browser choice also matters significantly—Chrome and Edge typically deliver the fastest performance, while Safari and Firefox may exhibit greater lag, especially on older hardware where GPU acceleration isn't well-supported.

Workspace complexity represents another major performance factor. Large relational databases with unoptimized views, heavy filter logic, or numerous relations can add tens of megabytes to your memory footprint per loaded view. When you're collaborating in real-time or using AI-enhanced features, resource requirements increase further. Cache accumulation from frequent database edits and workspace switching can also fragment your local storage, leading to slower retrieval times and increased loading delays.

Fortunately, several optimization strategies can dramatically improve your experience. Start by clearing Notion's cache and ensuring your operating system, browser, and Notion app are updated to the latest supported versions. Consider archiving unused pages and splitting large databases into smaller, more manageable units. If you're using the browser version and experiencing slowdowns, switching to the desktop app can provide 15-20% faster initial load times, though memory usage may increase with extensive workspaces.

Monitor your device's resource usage during slowdowns—if RAM or CPU usage consistently approaches 80% capacity, you may need to upgrade hardware or systematically reduce workspace complexity. Regular maintenance like archiving old content and cleaning up database views yields measurable improvements in load speed and UI responsiveness, helping you get the most out of Notion regardless of your device's limitations.