How to Reset the SMC on Your Mac

Edited 1 week ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

SMC ResetMacAppleDevice ManagementTroubleshootingPerformanceHardwaremacOSUser GuidePower Management

Technology has become an indispensable part of our lives, and with Apple's Mac computers, many of us enjoy a seamless and efficient work environment. However, like any other technology, Macs can sometimes have issues that may require troubleshooting. One of the lesser-known but important troubleshooting steps for Mac users is to reset the System Management Controller, commonly known as the SMC. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into what the SMC is, why you might need to reset it, and how to reset the SMC on your Mac.

What is a System Management Controller (SMC)?

The System Management Controller (SMC) is a vital component in Intel-based Macs. It plays a key role in managing various functions of the hardware on your Mac. The SMC controls many low-level operations, including:

• Power management: This includes battery management, sleep, and wake functions, as well as thermal management of your Mac.
• LED Indicators: The SMC handles tasks related to the indicator lights on your Mac, such as the keyboard backlighting.
• System performance: The behavior of your fan, such as its speed and noise level, is controlled by the SMC.
• Charging and Battery Function: The SMC also monitors battery status, including charging and health updates.
• Sudden Motion Sensor: If your Mac has this sensor, it is also managed by the SMC.

With so many important functions handled by the SMC, it's obvious that any malfunction in the SMC can lead to a variety of problems, such as power, sleep, and charging issues or even abnormal fan noises. Therefore, being able to reset the SMC can be a valuable solution for troubleshooting these types of problems.

When should you reset the SMC?

Resetting the SMC is not a step you typically take as your first troubleshooting option. It's often preferred when simpler solutions, such as restarting your Mac or adjusting system settings, don't resolve the problem. Here are some common situations where resetting the SMC may be necessary:

• Your Mac doesn't turn on when you press the power button.
• Your Mac's battery isn't charging properly.
• The MagSafe LED battery indicator is showing incorrect information.
• The fans are running excessively, even when the Mac isn't doing heavy tasks.
• When trackpads don't work as expected.
• Problems with sleep or shutdown persist - This means that your Mac does not sleep or shut down correctly.
• Unusual performance issues or sluggish behavior despite normal software configuration and available resources.
• Keyboard backlighting doesn't adjust or is constantly on or off.

If you're experiencing any of the above situations, an SMC reset may restore your Mac's normal functionality.

Steps to reset SMC on different Mac models

The process for resetting the SMC varies slightly depending on the type of Mac you have. This is mainly influenced by certain features such as a non-removable battery or the presence of Apple's unique T2 security chip. Let's break down the process for different categories of Macs.

1. Resetting the SMC on a MacBook without a T2 chip

MacBooks with removable batteries (older models)

Many older MacBook models were designed with removable batteries. If you have one of these, the SMC reset process involves removing the battery. Follow these instructions:

1. Shut down your Mac and remove the battery.
2. Unplug the MagSafe power adapter.
3. Press and hold the Power button for about five seconds.
4. Release the power button, reinsert the battery, and reconnect the MagSafe adapter.
5. Turn on your MacBook.

MacBooks with non-removable batteries

Most newer MacBook models come with non-removable batteries. The reset process for these models does not require physically handling the battery. Here's what you need to do:

1. Shut down your Mac completely.
2. On the built-in keyboard, press and hold the left Shift + Control + Option and the Power button at the same time.
3. Keep these keys held down for ten seconds.
4. Release all keys and the Power button.
5. Press the power button again to turn on your Mac.

2. Resetting the SMC on a desktop Mac without a T2 chip

This category includes iMac, Mac mini, and Mac Pro models. Follow these steps:

1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Unplug the power cable from your Mac.
3. Wait for at least fifteen seconds.
4. Replug the power cable into your Mac.
5. Wait five seconds and then press the power button to turn on your Mac.

3. Resetting the SMC on a Mac with a T2 security chip

Mac models with Apple's T2 security chip require a different method to reset. These models often have additional security and encryption features associated with the T2 component.

For MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models with the T2 chip

Follow these instructions for laptops with the T2 chip:

1. Shut down the Mac.
2. Press and hold the power button for ten seconds.
3. Release the Power button and wait for a few seconds.
4. Press the power button again to turn on the Mac.

If these steps don't resolve the issue, try this reset:

1. Shut down the Mac again.
2. Press and hold the right Shift key, the left Option key, and the left Control key for seven seconds.
3. While holding down these three keys, also hold down the Power button. Keep all four keys held down for another seven seconds, then release them.
4. Wait a few seconds, then press the power button to turn on the Mac.

For desktop Macs with a T2 chip (iMac Pro and above)

The reset process for desktop Macs with a T2 chip is simple:

1. Shut down your Mac.
2. When it turns off completely, press and hold the Power button for ten seconds.
3. Release the Power button and wait for a few seconds.
4. Press the power button again to turn on your Mac.

Post-reset thoughts

After resetting the SMC, it is important to check that the problems you are facing are actually resolved. Restart your Mac and verify if power, battery, fan, or indicator light problems are normal again. Remember, the SMC reset should resolve problems related to hardware functions controlled by the SMC.

Troubleshoot if the problem persists

If you tried resetting the SMC and your Mac is still experiencing problems, the problem may be related to other system errors or hardware malfunctions unrelated to the SMC. Here are additional troubleshooting steps:

• Update your macOS: Make sure you're running the latest version of macOS, as updates can often resolve existing software issues.
• Reset the NVRAM/PRAM: These are small chunks of memory that store certain settings. Problems and random glitches may be resolved after resetting the NVRAM/PRAM.
• Run Apple Diagnostics: This can help you identify hardware problems. Restart your Mac and hold down the D key to start Apple Diagnostics.
• Contact an Apple Store or authorized service provider: If the problem persists, it could be a sign of serious hardware problems and may require a professional.

Conclusion

Mastering the process of resetting the SMC gives Mac users an effective tool for dealing with a variety of hardware-related problems. While simple and straightforward, knowing the exact steps and differences depending on your Mac model ensures that you handle your device properly. Routine tasks such as checking for software updates, caring for your device's hardware, and seeking professional help when needed can further improve your Mac's health and performance. An SMC reset is just one part of practicing effective, informed computer care, allowing you to continue your work or leisure without hardware troubles.

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