Get the best battery life for your MacBook by changing these settings
Engadget outlines practical macOS settings that can help MacBook users extend battery life immediately and preserve battery capacity over time. The most significant recommendation is to use Low Power Mode when running on battery, while checking the menu bar battery control for high-energy apps and current power settings.
Users are advised to check Battery Health in System Settings, with Apple recommending replacement below 80 percent capacity, and to enable Optimised Battery Charging, which limits charging to 80 percent to support long-term battery lifespan. Other measures include dimming the display, shortening screen and keyboard-backlight time-outs, optimising video streaming by using SDR instead of HDR on battery, and using Activity Monitor to identify power-hungry applications.
In short
- Low Power Mode offers the biggest immediate battery-life improvement.
- Replace the battery if capacity falls below 80 percent.
- Reduce display use and identify energy-hungry apps.
Explained simply
MacBook batteries store less energy as they age, so a charge may not last as long over time. The rate of wear depends partly on how the laptop is used and charged, as well as the apps and features running on it.
Apple provides battery controls in macOS, including Low Power Mode, which can reduce energy use while the MacBook is unplugged. Battery Health shows the battery’s remaining capacity; Apple advises considering replacement when it falls below 80 per cent, and Optimised Battery Charging can limit charging to help slow wear.
The display, video playback and demanding apps can all use significant power. Checking the battery menu or Activity Monitor can help users see which settings or apps are drawing more energy.