InDesign using lots of energy and causing my computer to heat up

Forum|Forum|1 day ago
August 19, 2026
11 replies
53 views

I am finding that my computer is heating up to an unusual level and the fans are activating when I use InDesign, even though the tasks I’m performing are very basic and not at all demanding of the processor.

My computer is a MacBook Pro with the M5 Pro chip, purchased in April this year, so it should easily be capable of performing these tasks without needing to activate the fans to cool itself down.

My version of InDesign is definitely up to date and I have tried uninstalling InDesign and reinstalling.

Is anyone else finding that Indesign is putting unreasonable demands on their processor?

leo.r

Community Expert

Some other similar reports about M5 even though not specifically related to InDesign:
https://www.reddit.com/r/macgaming/comments/1s9knc1/macbook_pro_m5_max_is_a_beast_but_is_this_heat/
https://discussions.apple.com/thread/256251650?sortBy=rank

Also, do you see anything suspicious in CPU and memory stats in Activity Monitor?

leo.r

Community Expert

…and here’s a brand new post on MacRumors that suggests that the upcoming macOS Golden Gate may improve overheating issues on M5:

https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/apple-releases-macos-golden-gate-beta-6.2487028/post-34732092

Dave Creamer of IDEAS

Community Expert

Make sure you are using the latest version of InDesign. Also try using the previous version to see if the problem persists.

Also, if you having already, prop up the back of the laptop so air flow and get underneath. If oyu haven’t done so, get a case to protect the laptop with legs.

David Creamer: Community Expert (ACI and ACE 1995-2023)

R

Ross5C77Author

Participant

Yes, I uninstalled InDesign and reinstalled to ensure it was the latest version with a completely clean install. The MacBook Pro is on an elevator stand so there is airflow all round and the vents are completely unobstructed.

leo.r

Community Expert

Yes, I uninstalled InDesign and reinstalled to ensure it was the latest version with a completely clean install.

If you have the time and desire, you can install the beta of macOS 27 on a separate volume and test the hypothesis that Golden Gate solves the M5 overheating issue, which I mentioned above.

Mike Witherell

Community Expert

What happens if you turn off Preferences > Generative AI… both switches. OK. Restart. Does it calm down?

Mike Witherell

Peter Spier

Community Expert

Are you using an external monitor instead of the built-in screen? I find my windows notebook consistently overheats the video and blanks out for a few seconds in warm weather unless I leave the lid cracked open with air flowing across it.

R

Ross5C77Author

Participant

Yes, I have an Apple Studio Display connected, but I am using both screens, so the laptop is open at all times. The laptop is also on a stand so the vents are not obstructed in any way.

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