How to Reset NVRAM and SMC on macOS 13

Resetting the Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory (NVRAM) and System Management Controller (SMC) on macOS 13 (Ventura) can resolve various hardware, power, audio, and display issues. The required steps depend entirely on whether your Mac uses an Apple Silicon processor (M1, M2, or later) or an older Intel processor. Below are the direct steps to perform both resets based on your specific Mac hardware.

Identify Your Mac Processor

Before proceeding, verify your processor type:

  1. Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner.
  2. Select About This Mac.
  3. Look for Chip (Apple Silicon) or Processor (Intel).

Resetting NVRAM and SMC on Apple Silicon Macs

Apple Silicon Macs do not have an SMC, and NVRAM is tested and reset automatically if issues are detected.

  • To reset NVRAM/SMC on Apple Silicon:
    1. Click the Apple menu () and select Shut Down.
    2. Wait until your Mac completely powers off.
    3. Close the lid or leave the computer completely off for at least 30 seconds.
    4. Press the Power button or open the lid to turn the Mac back on.

Resetting NVRAM on Intel Macs

NVRAM stores settings such as sound volume, display resolution, startup disk selection, and time zone information.

  1. Click the Apple menu () and select Shut Down.
  2. Press the Power button, then immediately press and hold these four keys together: Option + Command + P + R.
  3. Hold the keys for approximately 20 seconds:
    • If your Mac plays a startup chime, hold the keys until you hear the chime a second time.
    • If your Mac has an Apple T2 Security Chip, hold the keys until the Apple logo appears and disappears for the second time.
  4. Release the keys and let the Mac finish booting.
  5. Reconfigure any customized settings (such as display resolution or time zone) in System Settings.

Resetting SMC on Intel Macs

The SMC controls low-level hardware functions such as fan speed, power management, battery charging, and status lights.

For Laptops with the Apple T2 Chip (Most 2018–2020 models)

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Press and hold Control (left side) + Option (left side) + Shift (right side) for 7 seconds.
  3. Without releasing those keys, press and hold the Power button.
  4. Keep holding all four keys for another 7 seconds, then release them.
  5. Wait a few seconds, then press the Power button to turn on your Mac.

For Laptops with Non-Removable Batteries (Pre-2018 models)

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Press and hold Shift (left side) + Control (left side) + Option (left side) on the keyboard.
  3. While holding those three keys, press and hold the Power button.
  4. Hold all four keys for 10 seconds.
  5. Release all keys, then press the Power button to turn on your Mac.

For Desktop Computers (iMac, Mac mini, Mac Pro)

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Disconnect the power cord from the back of the Mac.
  3. Wait 15 seconds.
  4. Plug the power cord back in.
  5. Wait 5 seconds, then press the Power button to turn on your Mac.