Have you just bought a MacBook? You’ve made a good choice, as its operating system, macOS, is intuitive and easy to use. This device is also known for being reliable and long-lasting. However, the way you use your MacBook can affect the lifespan of its battery and how quickly it discharges.
All about MacBook batteries
MacBook battery technology and its advantages
The different MacBook models are fitted with batteries using Lithium-Ion technology. These are particularly light. They also offer longer battery life.
This type of battery also has a rather specific charging behaviour. From 0 to 80%, the charge level rises quickly, allowing you to enjoy a sufficiently charged device in a short time. From 80 to 100%, the charging speed slows down. This system helps preserve the battery’s lifespan.
Remember that Lithium-Ion batteries do not suffer from the memory effect. Thanks to this feature, you can recharge your laptop without waiting for the battery to be completely drained.
The charge cycle of MacBook batteries and their lifespan
Apple laptop batteries are generally designed for 1000 charge cycles. Once this number is reached, they inevitably move towards the end of their life.
One cycle corresponds to a full charge of the battery (0 to 100%). If your battery is completely flat and you charge it to 100%, that counts as one cycle. If you charge it by 25% over 4 days, this also adds up to one cycle. If you charge it by 40% today and 60% the next day, that is likewise one cycle, and so on until you reach the predefined 1000-cycle limit.
The 1000-cycle threshold is reached depending on how you use your MacBook. Your battery will last longer if you only use your computer for 1 hour a day. On the other hand, the battery of a designer’s Mac used for more than 10 hours a day will wear out more quickly.
Checking the overall condition of a MacBook battery
Have you noticed that your MacBook has been draining too quickly for some time now? Check the system information of the device. This data will tell you about the condition of its battery.
Quick check
Go to the Apple menu (icon represented by the Apple logo). Open System Preferences, then click Battery twice.
You will see the wording Battery Health in the lower right corner. One of the following messages may appear:
- Normal: the battery is working properly and does not need to be replaced.
- Service recommended: this means that the battery’s charge capacity has significantly decreased compared with its original capacity. A battery replacement should be considered.
In-depth check
Click the Apple icon at the top left of your Apple laptop screen. Then click About This Mac, then System Report. Go to the Hardware section of this window, then click Power. You will then see a lot of information about the battery. Take a look at the cycle count. If the total is below 500, there is no need to worry.
Optimising your MacBook battery performance
Here are some techniques to help preserve your MacBook battery’s lifespan and optimise its battery life.
Keep your laptop at room temperature
It is best to use your Mac laptop in an environment where the temperature is between 10 and 35°C. If the MacBook is switched off and stored, it can withstand temperatures between -20°C and 45°C. However, you should favour locations at room temperature. Be particularly careful with excessive heat, as it can cause irreversible damage to the battery.
Use Energy Saver
As the name suggests, this feature reduces energy consumption. To enable it, click the Apple menu, then System Preferences and finally Energy Saver. You will see tick boxes in the Battery section. All you need to do is tick “Put hard disks to sleep when possible” and “Slightly dim the display while on battery power”.
Reduce screen brightness
Lowering your screen brightness helps you save more power. To do this, press the F1 key on your MacBook keyboard.
Disable certain features
Turn off Wi‑Fi if you are in an area without wireless coverage. When it is on, Wi‑Fi constantly searches for an available connection, which uses up battery power.
Update the operating system
By using the latest version of macOS, you benefit from the most recent battery saving technologies and improvements.
Charge your MacBook to 50% before long-term storage
If your MacBook is going to be stored for a long period, charge it to 50%. If it is completely discharged before being stored, the battery may become unusable. If it is charged to 100%, the battery may lose part of its capacity.
