To plug it in, or Not to plug it in

[~David]

That is the question.

I keep hearing that to increase the life of notebook batteries, that it is best to let them run on the battery until it's dead/almost dead. Is this the case with MacBooks as well?

I know the theory only applies to certain types of batteries, but I just don't know what battery type the MacBook uses.

Thanks

 

[CrzyCanuck72]

my theory on battery life is that to increase the life of your battery, use it in the way that is most convenient for you. If you're near a plug, plug it in. If you need to use the battery, use the battery. What's the point in having such a fun laptop if you're going to spend all your time worrying about if you're using it properly?

By properly applying this theory, I have a 12 month-old MacBook with 199 load cycles that still has 100% health.

 

[flopticalcube]

That is the question.

I keep hearing that to increase the life of notebook batteries, that it is best to let them run on the battery until it's dead/almost dead. Is this the case with MacBooks as well?

I know the theory only applies to certain types of batteries, but I just don't know what battery type the MacBook uses.

Thanks

With lithium ions its best to discharge a little bit and then recharge, not deepcycling.

www.batteryuniversity.com

 

[scienide09]

Apple has a handy document that gives battery maintenance instructions. Basicially what flopticalcube is the prescribed method.

http://www.apple.com/batteries/notebooks.html

 

[loafer]

I do both.

I do little discharges mixed in with deep discharges.

I am at 314 cycles with still 100% battery health - had my mackbook pro since aug 06

 

[pinktank]

common consensus holds (so far) that it doesnt matter

 

[applesith]

For the most part, with all my re-chargeable devices (including my MBP), I use the battery completely until it asks for me to plug it in. I have read that short charges or not charging the battery to full could shorten the life span of the battery.

I don't go crazy about it. Sometimes I have to unplug before it finishes charging, so i can bring it to class. I figure I will buy a new battery for my MBP in about a year.

 

[rchoo]

To what percentage would you start charging your battery? I personally prefer it to go down into the red or before it sleeps to do so. But when I do let it charge, whether i let it drain all the way or not, i let it fully charge.

just a habit,
rchoo

 

[~David]

Sweet, thanks for the info guys.