How to Limit Your MacBook's Charging to 80% for Better Battery Health

Many experts, including Battery University and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, recommend charging devices only up to 80 percent to prolong battery life. MacBooks have a built-in feature that helps manage this, but users can take further control with a free application.

MacBooks are designed with a charging optimization feature that limits charging to 80 percent under certain conditions. This feature, enabled by default, learns from your charging habits and adjusts accordingly. For instance, if you charge your laptop overnight, it will charge up to 80 percent and wait until morning to complete the charge, minimizing the time the battery remains fully charged. This automatic feature aims to protect battery health without requiring user intervention.

However, this built-in optimization may not suit everyone, especially those with unpredictable routines. If your daily activities vary, you might find your MacBook not fully charged when you need it most, such as waking up earlier than usual for a trip. For users who prefer more control over their device's charging, a free and open-source application called Battery can be a solution.

The Battery app allows users to set a limit on charging to 80 percent, giving them the flexibility to manage their charging needs manually. The app resides in the menu bar, providing easy access to toggle between limited and full charging. This requires users to be proactive, enabling full charging when necessary and reverting to the 80 percent limit afterward.

For those who primarily use their MacBook at a desk, this app offers a way to maintain battery health over time. By managing charging habits actively, users can ensure their devices are ready for use when needed while also extending the lifespan of their batteries.