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Best Battery Life when Plugged or Not Plugged?

AC Plugged in or Not?

  • Plugged in

    Votes: 6 60.0%

  • Un-plugged

    Votes: 4 40.0%
  • Total voters
    10
  • Poll closed .
V

varchar

macrumors member
Original poster
Aug 9, 2008
62
0
A daunting question is always on my mind. I use my MBP 15" (the new one), as my primary machine in my office. I sit by my best usually 10-12hrs a day working on it.

I am trying to figure out what is best to do, keep the AC plugged in or have it un-plugged and only plug it in when the battery is drained (or less then 50%)? I have tried different experiments, plugged in, not-plugged and time is about the same for life of the battery. The true question is, how is is best to do it for the health of the battery.

I was even thinking, maybe its just a good idea to get the new iMac (when it comes out) and use that as my primary... dunno...

Thoughts?
 
There's no need for a poll on this. It's not up for a vote. Refer to Apple's information on notebook batteries. You should unplug and run on battery every few days, to keep electrons moving, and calibrate about once a month.
 
Best practice would be to maintain battery life between 20-80%. Your longevity will be affected if you always run on power.

Either way be sure to calibrate every month.
 
My MBP's battery is near death after two years of mostly plugged in use. iStat Pro reports 151 cycles, 32% health. My last MBP spent more time unplugged and seemed to survive better, but I only had it for one year.

If it's always on a desk, consider a desktop. You can either spend less or get more for the money.
 
I'd venture to say that nobody's battery would maintain proper health if constant power were to be applied most of the time. Mine sure hasn't but I didn't figure this out until a few weeks ago.

Now, at least once a day I make sure I'm running on battery only until about 20 minutes remaining. My battery health has gone from 85 to 95% (82 cycles) and it's still rising (I hope).
 
Rotator said:
Probably 3rd party re-seller. I suggest you just get one directly from apple to ensure best quality.
Click to expand...
I don't believe any 3rd parties sell the unibody battery. They have to be replaced by Apple to keep from voiding the warranty.

Replacing the battery in MacBook Pro (Early 2009) and later
The battery in the following MacBook Pro models should only be replaced by an Apple Authorized Service Provider. Please do not attempt to replace the battery in your MacBook Pro yourself.

MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2009)
MacBook Pro (15-inch, Mid 2009)
MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2.53GHz, Mid 2009)
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Mid 2009)
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2009)
Click to expand...
I found the prices:

Replacing the Battery in your MacBook Pro:
Picture 1.jpg​
 
When you NEED the replacement it will be much less expensive in three years.

Plus, under $200, wonderful!
 
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