FIX: MacBook is stuck in Sleep Mode

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Key notes

  • Having your MacBook stuck in Sleep Mode can be extremely frustrating, but these fixes can help.
  • To try and resolve the issue, it is recommended that you reset SMC and NVRAM, and also check the other steps below.
  • If you're interested in more useful Mac fixes, visit our comprehensive Mac Troubleshooting Hub.
  • To always be informed about the latest Mac news, don't forget to bookmark our Mac page.
Macbook got stuck in sleep mode

In order to save precious battery power, many users are using Sleep mode on their MacBook, but what to do if the MacBook is stuck in Sleep Mode? Many MacBook owners reported this issue, and in today’s article, we’ll show you how to fix it once and for all.

What can I do if my MacBook is stuck in Sleep Mode?

1. Force the shutdown

According to users, this can occur due to certain glitches with your system. To fix that, you just need to press the Power button and hold it until the system shuts down. Once the system shuts down, press the Power button again to start your MacBook.

This is just a workaround, but many users reported that turning off their MacBook fixed the problem with the Sleep Mode, so be sure to try that.

2. Try adjusting the brightness

According to users, sometimes it might seem that your MacBook is stuck in Sleep Mode because your brightness is set too low. To fix this problem, users are suggesting adjusting the brightness manually. To do that, follow these steps:

  1. Press and hold Shift + Option keys.
  2. Now keep pressing the F2 key to increase the brightness.

3. Disconnect other devices

Sometimes other devices that are connected with your MacBook can cause issues with Sleep Mode. To fix that, it’s advised that you disconnect all devices from your MacBook since they might be interfering with Sleep Mode.

Once you disconnect all devices, check if the problem is still there. If the issue doesn’t appear anymore, try connecting devices one by one until you manage to find the one that is causing the issue.

4. Reset SMC and NVRAM

Sometimes resetting SMC or NVRAM can fix the issue. In order to reset the NVRAM, do the following:

  1. Turn off your MacBook and start it again.
  2. While the device boots, press and hold the Option, Command, P, and R keys.
  3. Keep the keys pressed until you hear the startup sound for the second time. On newer models, hold the keys pressed until you see the Apple logo appear and disappear for the second time.

To reset SMC on models with the T2 chip, just follow these steps:

  1. Shut down your MacBook.
  2. Press and hold left Control, left Option, and right Shift
  3. Hold the keys pressed for 7 seconds. Without releasing the keys, press and hold the Power button as well.
  4. Keep all four keys pressed for 7 seconds.
  5. Release all keys and start your MacBook again.

On models with no T2 chip, the process is slightly different:

  1. Shut down your MacBook, and hold left Shift, left Control, and left Option.
  2. While holding these keys, press and hold the Power button as well.
  3. Keep all four keys pressed for 10 seconds.
  4. Release the keys and start your MacBook again.

This article presented you with several quick and easy solutions that should help you if your MacBook is stuck in Sleep Mode.

FAQ: Learn more about Sleep Mode on MacBook

  • What is Macbook Sleep Mode?

The Sleep Mode feature on your MacBook allows the computer to consume less power while not in use.

  • How do I turn off the sleep mode on my Mac?

To turn off the Sleep Mode on Mac, you will need to click on the Apple menu, select System Preferences, then click on Energy Saver and drag the cursors to your desired setting.

  • Does Time Machine continue in Sleep Mode?

Yes, the Time Machine feature works in the background to keep your files saved even when the Sleep Mode is activated.

More about the topics: Fix Mac issues