4 min read
Tableau for Low-End PCs
Tips and tricks to run Tableau efficiently on low-end computers
System Requirements
Tableau needs decent hardware. Here are the minimum requirements:
| Component | Minimum |
|---|---|
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Processor | 64-bit |
| Storage | 15 GB free |
| OS | Windows 10+ or macOS 10.15+ |
Tips for Slow Computers
1. Use Extracts Instead of Live Connection
Extracts are faster than live connections:
- Go to Data menu
- Click "Extract Data"
- Save the extract file
2. Reduce Data Size
- Filter unnecessary rows
- Remove unused columns
- Aggregate data before importing
3. Optimize Workbook
- Use fewer sheets
- Limit dashboard filters
- Avoid too many calculations
4. Close Other Programs
- Close browsers
- Close other apps
- Free up RAM
5. Use Tableau Public
Tableau Public is lighter than Desktop:
- Free to use
- Works on most computers
- Limited to public data only
Alternative: Tableau Online
If your PC is too slow:
- Use Tableau Online (cloud-based)
- No installation needed
- Works in browser
Quick Performance Fixes
- Disable animations - Edit > Animations > Off
- Use simple charts - Bar charts are faster than maps
- Limit colors - Fewer colors = faster rendering
Summary
Even with a slow PC, you can use Tableau. Use extracts, reduce data, and keep things simple!