Battery in Apples’ MacBooks is one of the most important things. After all, without a functioning battery, your laptop becomes a desktop! It is the battery inside your MacBook that keeps it portable and usable on the go.
MacBook batteries are usually made of lithium-ion are known for reliability and long life. Battery life is a big deal. It determines how long you can use your MacBook without needing to plug it in. Newer MacBooks generally have longer battery life, but older ones can still do well if they’ve been cared for.
Lithium-ion batteries, which are used in MacBooks, smartphones, and most other electronic devices, naturally degrade over time. So, it’s impossible to maintain the battery in your MacBook in perfect condition.
In this guide we will share with you the tips on how you can maximize MacBook battery life prolonging your laptop’s power.
Tips for Prolonging MacBook Power
Reduce Brightness
Dimming your MacBook’s screen brightness conserves battery life. Adjust it to a comfortable level to save power without straining your eyes.
Close Unused Apps
Open apps consume battery power. Close apps you’re not using to free up resources and keep your MacBook running longer.
Disable Wireless Connections
Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not needed. These connections constantly search for signals, draining your MacBook battery unnecessarily.
Adjust Power Settings
Customize your MacBook’s power settings to optimize performance. Lowering screen sleep and system sleep times can help save power.
Enable Airplane Mode
When you’re not online, activate Airplane mode. It stops your MacBook from searching for networks and extends battery life.
Adjust Energy Preferences
In your MacBook’s settings, tweak energy preferences. Opt for “Better Battery Life” instead of “Better Performance” when you want to conserve power.
Keep Your MacBook Cool
Overheating can strain your MacBook’s battery. Ensure proper ventilation and avoid using your laptop on soft surfaces that can trap heat.
By following these simple tips, you can significantly prolong your MacBook’s battery life and enjoy more uninterrupted work or play on the go.
Charging Habits to Prolong Your MacBook Battery Life
Your MacBook is a trusty companion, but like all good things, it needs some care to ensure its longevity. One of the critical aspects of MacBook care is managing your battery. With the right charging habits, you can significantly prolong your MacBook’s battery life, keeping it running smoothly for years to come.
Avoid Overcharging
Let’s start with a common misconception – you don’t need to keep your MacBook plugged in all the time. In fact, overcharging can stress your battery and reduce its overall lifespan. Once your MacBook reaches a full charge (usually indicated by a green light on the charger), it’s okay to unplug it. Let your laptop use some of that battery power before plugging it back in.
Optimal Charging Range
Keep your MacBook’s battery between 20% and 80% for everyday use. Charging it to 100% or letting it drain to 0% too frequently can put extra strain on the battery. Staying within this 20-80% range helps maintain your battery’s health.
Calibrate Occasionally
While it’s not something you need to do often, calibrating your MacBook’s battery every few months can be beneficial. To do this, charge it to 100%, then use it until it’s almost empty. This helps recalibrate the battery’s internal gauge, giving you a more accurate reading of your battery’s capacity.
Temperature Matters
Your MacBook’s battery doesn’t like extreme temperatures. Avoid exposing it to intense heat or cold. High temperatures can cause the battery to overheat and degrade faster, while extreme cold can make it less efficient. Keep your MacBook in a comfortable, room-temperature environment.
Use Genuine Chargers
When it comes to charging your MacBook, stick to genuine Apple chargers or reputable third-party options. Using cheap, knockoff chargers can damage your battery and even pose safety risks.
Battery Health Check
MacBooks come with a built-in tool to monitor battery health. To access it, click the Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen, go to “About This Mac,” then “System Report,” and finally “Power.” Here, you can check your battery’s condition and see if it needs servicing.
Unplug During Intense Tasks
When you’re engaging in processor-intensive tasks like video editing or gaming, consider disconnecting the charger if your battery is at a comfortable level. These tasks can generate heat, and having the MacBook plugged in while it’s hot might not be the best for the battery’s long-term health.
Regular Software Updates
Apple often releases software updates that optimize your MacBook’s performance, including battery management. Keeping your operating system up to date ensures you’re benefiting from the latest battery-saving features.
Enable Battery Saver Mode
MacBooks running macOS Catalina or later have a Battery Saver mode. When enabled, it optimizes your MacBook’s settings to reduce power consumption. You can turn this on in the Battery preferences under System Preferences.
Give Your MacBook a Rest
Lastly, if you’re not planning to use your MacBook for an extended period, store it with around 50% battery charge. This level is ideal for long-term storage and ensures your battery doesn’t go into a deep discharge state.
In conclusion, taking care of your MacBook’s battery isn’t complicated. It involves avoiding extremes, maintaining a comfortable charging range, using reputable chargers, and occasionally calibrating. By following these simple tips and making them a part of your routine, you can significantly prolong your MacBook’s battery life, ensuring it serves you faithfully for years to come.
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