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gumdrops's avatar
gumdrops
Helpful | Level 6
5 years ago

Dropbox using high amount of RAM / memory

This is an issue for Dropbox running macOS Mojave 10.14.6. I've been using Dropbox for many years but as a really light user. I probably have around 200 data files, sizes ranging from a few bytes to ...
Desktop
Mac
Space and storage
Sync
gumdrops's avatar
gumdrops
Helpful | Level 6

Thanks for the welcome. :-) 

 

I uploaded two screenshots, one is macOS's Activity Monitor, while the other is a monitoring app called iStats Menus. 

 

 

macOS Activity Monitor

iStats Menus

When I boot my MacBook, Dropbox usually consumes above 200 MB, and then over time, it rises over 400 MB. 

 

No, I have not re-installed the app lately. I will try using the installer provided in the link, and get back to you.

 

gumdrops's avatar
gumdrops
Helpful | Level 6
5 years ago

So, I uninstalled Dropbox, and re-installed with the version in the link you gave. Then, I re-started my MacBook. I went to look at how Dropbox do this time: 

 

Activity Monitor post-reinstall Dropbox with offline installer.

iStats Menus post-reinstall Dropbox with offline installer.

As you can see from Activity Monitor, it still takes up over 200 MB even after re-boot. But hey, Dropbox takes number one position this time. Yaaaaaaay........ but I jest, not really yay. 

 

I don't know why Dropbox is so hungry, nomming so much of my RAM. It really needs to be on a diet. 

 

Do you have any idea why this is happening or suggestions to solve this RAM issue?

  • Walter's avatar
    Walter
    Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff
    5 years ago

    Thanks for the updates gumdrops!

     

    May I ask for a screenshot of the exact status of the desktop app as shown within the menu bar of the affected computer so I can see what it reports and its exact version? 

    • gumdrops's avatar
      gumdrops
      Helpful | Level 6
      5 years ago

      I'm not sure what you mean by status, as I can't find anywhere in the app, be it preferences, or in drop down menu to show status. I don't see an option to report status. I'm guessing this may be what you want:

      And this is the version?:Dropbox desktop app version

       

      • Walter's avatar
        Walter
        Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff
        5 years ago

        Thanks for the visual aid gumdrops; this was exactly what I was looking for!

         

        If the desktop app is using so much RAM while you're not working within your Dropbox Folder and the app states 'Up to date' you might want to consider a clean, advanced re-install as it might help improve matters for you.

         

        In any case, please keep me posted!

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