How to use MacBook on the desk?

[trerep]

I will use my MacBook Air M2/M3 always on my desk in a very clean and minimal setup

It is better to use it on battery and charge it when necessary or use it always plugged in?

 

[Bigwaff]

It is better to use it on battery and charge it when necessary or use it always plugged in?

Better in what context? For the battery?

 

[xDeadTechx]

I use AlDente to keep the battery at 69% while in "desk" mode, this allows it to turn off charging to the battery. If I know I will be using it off AC power I just top it off to 100% and use it like a laptop. When it's back on AC it charges to 70% and doesn't go past it to prevent battery degradation.

 

[ShadowJamie]

I will use my MacBook Air M2/M3 always on my desk in a very clean and minimal setup

It is better to use it on battery and charge it when necessary or use it always plugged in?

Always keeping it connected to power is the way to go. Constantly charging and discharging will stress the battery more.

 

[Alpha Centauri]

I use AlDente to keep the battery at 69% while in "desk" mode, this allows it to turn off charging to the battery. If I know I will be using it off AC power I just top it off to 100% and use it like a laptop. When it's back on AC it charges to 70% and doesn't go past it to prevent battery degradation.

Another AlDente user here. I wonder, why did you settle on 70% versus, for example 80% ?

 

[ducknalddon]

Always plugged in. You don't need any extra software, you can configure it to settle on 80% charge itself.

 

[Ifti]

I also use Aldente. Even though I use mine mostly at my desk I actually use it on battery and charge when its at 20%. I've noticed no difference in battery health between this and leaving on the charger all the time (as I did with my other laptop). Its better to use and cycle the battery, every so often at the very least.