Apple MacBook Pro Laptop Computer with Intel Duo Core 15.4 Inch PC Notebook Logo
Anonymous Posted on Dec 13, 2011

Any tips on extending the life of a Macbook Pro battery?

My Macbook Pro can currently be unplugged for only ten minutes at a time before dyring. This is undoubtedly frustrating, as it has essentially become a desktop computer for me. I have had issues with it in the past (this is my second battery in two years), and was wondering if anyone had tips to conserve battery power. Are the Macbook Pro batteries notoriously faulty, or is this a case of me not paying enough attention to proper battery care? Thanks for the help!

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  • Posted on Dec 15, 2011
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My suggestion would be to buy a new battery.

After that you should shut down your computer at night (or every other night) and make sure you don't leave it plugged in for a long time (only charge until it is 100% then unplug).

These are two of the most important things towards ensuring significant battery life.

Hope that helps!

Testimonial: "Thanks!"

  • Jeffrey Groves
    Jeffrey Groves Dec 27, 2011

    Actually, leaving Lithium Ion batteries, like the ones in the Macbook Pro, on charge consistently is not bad for them. It's actually better not to deep cycle the batteries (don't discharge the batteries all the way down every time). Make sure that you immediately recharge the battery after running it on batteries only.

    Additionally, shutting down a Macbook isn't necessary. All you need to do is just close it and it will sit in standby mode for a very long time without discharging the battery. Constantly starting up and shutting down your Macbook isn't necessary and it just adds to the the time that takes to get things going again.

    When you're not using the Macbook, just close the lid and plug it in to the power adapter and let it sit. It will be fine.

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