How to increase IDE memory limit in IntelliJ IDEA on Mac?

Preserving and verifying customizations

Identifying the current memory budget

Before cranking up the memory limit, it won't hurt to scope out the current settings. Locate the Memory Indicator at the right bottom corner or run jps -v in your terminal. It's much better to make an informed change instead of fumbling in the dark.

Making permanent customizations

Let's make those memory tweaks stick through updates. Accomplish this by migrating your .vmoptions file to ~/Library/Preferences/<appFolder>/ post-adjustments. This simple step ensures your customizations aren't wiped off with each update.

Exploring optional memory setting methods

While .vmoptions modifications are largely foolproof, an alternative way lies in fiddling with environment variables. Using this approach can offer you greater control across different environments.

Mandatory precautions for memory adjustments

Steering clear of Info.plist tweaks

Meddling with Info.plist is a no-go due to the signed nature of IntelliJ IDEA. Stick to .vmoptions to prevent any potential signature conflicts.

Post-change verification

Once you're done tweaking, validate by restarting IntelliJ IDEA. Utilizing the Memory Indicator or jps -v will confirm that your heap size modifications took effect.

Heads up, Windows users

If you also work on Windows or have friends on the other side, note that they'd need to edit idea.exe.vmoptions. Remember, the rules of navigation differ slightly per operating system.

Scoring optimal performance from IDE

Tailoring heap size for project size

When you start working on more extensive projects, their resource demands shoot up. Tweaking the -Xmx tends to balance resource usage and IDE performance without hoarding system memory.

Weeding out conflicting settings

If potential clashing -Xmx settings exist, they will need to be ditched. They override your custom value and could result in unpredicted memory allocation mess. Keep your .vmoptions file neat and clean to prevent such conflicts.

Keeping an eye on memory use

Utilize the Memory Indicator to monitor your IDE's memory usage in real time and adjust the -Xmx value according to your projects' demand, ensuring optimal efficiency.

Official documentation never hurts

When in doubt, get the IntelliJ IDEA documentation out. It's a reliable, well-maintained resource for referencing valid ways to adjust memory settings.