A MacBook battery slowly loses capacity as it ages. Most of the time you won’t notice until the MacBook runs for noticeably less time on a charge, or starts shutting down early. Here is how to check your battery health in a couple of minutes, the signs it’s time for a new one, and how to look after it.
1. Check Battery Health in System Settings
Open the Apple menu, choose System Settings, then click Battery. Next to Battery Health, click the information button. macOS shows the condition as Normal or Service Recommended, and newer versions also show the maximum capacity as a percentage.
2. Check the cycle count
A charge cycle is using 100% of the battery’s capacity, whether in one go or across several partial charges. To see the count, hold Option, click the Apple menu and choose System Information. Under Hardware, click Power and look for Cycle Count. Apple says most modern MacBook batteries are designed to keep up to 80% of their original capacity at 1,000 cycles.
3. Signs your MacBook battery needs replacing
- Battery Health says Service Recommended
- The charge drops quickly, even with light use
- The MacBook shuts down while the battery still shows charge
- It only works when plugged in
- The case, keyboard or trackpad is lifting, which can mean a swollen battery
4. If you think the battery is swollen
Stop using the MacBook, keep it unplugged, and don’t press on the case. A swollen battery should be replaced promptly. See our MacBook battery replacement service.
5. How to make a battery last longer
- Keep Optimised Battery Charging switched on in Battery settings
- Keep your MacBook out of heat, such as a hot car or direct sun
- Keep macOS up to date, as updates often include battery improvements
- Use the charger that came with your MacBook, or one with the right wattage
When to get it checked
If Battery Health shows Service Recommended, or the MacBook shuts down unexpectedly, a new battery will bring back proper battery life. MacBook battery replacement starts from £60 for labour, with the battery quoted for your exact model, and diagnosis is free. We carry out other Mac and MacBook repairs too.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check my MacBook battery health?
Open System Settings, click Battery, then click the information button next to Battery Health. It shows Normal or Service Recommended.
What is a good cycle count for a MacBook battery?
Apple says most modern MacBook batteries are designed to keep up to 80% of their original capacity at 1,000 cycles. Battery Health in System Settings tells you whether yours needs attention.
How much does MacBook battery replacement cost?
At PC Laptop Repair in Ilford, MacBook battery replacement starts from £60 for labour. The battery is quoted for your exact model before any work starts.
Call 07856 990719 or message us on WhatsApp for a free diagnosis and an upfront quote. Open 7 days, 7am to 10pm, in Ilford (IG4).
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