Where Can I Get My MacBook Battery Replaced?
- by Bryan Veldboom - updated on 3/15/2022
Did you know that the battery in your MacBook has a limited lifespan? Over time, your battery will begin to degrade. Once it reaches the end of its lifespan, you'll need to have it replaced. This article will help answer your questions regarding MacBook batteries and help you determine when and where you should replace them.
How Long Do MacBook Batteries Last?
A battery's lifespan is measured in charging cycles. One full charging cycle is completed when you've used a measure of power equal to 100% of your battery's total capacity. Let's say that you use 75% of your battery's capacity on a Monday, then charge it back up again overnight. If you use 25% the next day, you will have completed one full charge cycle over the course of those two days.
Modern MacBook batteries can last up to 1,000 charging cycles, although the lifespan of your battery will depend on what model MacBook you have and when it was manufactured. You can check your model against the list provided on the Apple support page for a rough estimate of how long you can expect it to last. For most people, a lifespan of 1,000 cycles will typically last between two and three years, although this will vary depending on your usage.
How Do I Know if My MacBook Battery Needs to Be Replaced?
Apple makes it easy to check how many cycles your laptop battery has completed. Just follow these easy instructions:
- Hold down the Option/Alt key and click on the Apple icon in the upper left corner of the screen
- Select "System Information"
- Under the "Hardware" section, select "Power"
- You'll find the total number of charge cycles your battery has completed under "Cycle Count"
How Do I Check My MacBook Battery Health?
MacBooks also allow you to check your battery's health using the following steps.
For macOS Big Sur or later:
- Choose the Apple menu in the upper left hand corner, then select "System Preferences"
- Under "System Preferences," click "Battery," then select "Battery" in the sidebar and click "Battery Health"
For macOS Catalina or earlier:
- Hold down the Option/Alt key and click on the battery icon at the top right corner of the screen
- This will engage a drop-down menu known as the battery status menu.
- On that menu, select "System Information"
Once that's completed, you see one of the following messages:
- Normal - Means that the battery is functioning normally.
- Service Recommended - Indicates that the battery no longer holds a charge as well as it used to or that it isn't functioning normally. While still safe to use, you should consider having the battery replaced soon.
What are the Signs of a Bad Battery on a MacBook?
In addition to checking the cycle count or battery health, you can usually tell when a laptop battery is at the end of its life based on how it's performing. A dying battery will have a hard time holding a charge. If you find yourself having to charge your laptop more often than you used to, it's a good bet that your battery is getting old. Old batteries can also cause a laptop to overheat or shut down unexpectedly.
How Do I Know Which Battery to Buy for My MacBook?
When shopping for a replacement battery you will need the model and manufacture date of your particular MacBook. This information is easy to find. Simply click on the Apple symbol in the top left corner of your screen and select "About This Mac." The details of your particular laptop will display beneath the operating system you are currently using.
Can I Change My Battery Myself?
MacBook models manufactured in 2009 or later feature built-in batteries that are glued inside the laptop's casing. Unless you really know what you're doing, it's best to have your battery replaced by a professional. Visit our Laptop Repair Service page to schedule a battery replacement appointment at your nearest store. If you don't see "battery replacement" listed for your particular model, don't worry. Many of our stores have additional battery options in-stock. Just call your nearest Batteries Plus location and ask them if they have any replacement batteries for your model.
Visit Batteries Plus for Your Laptop Essentials
Looking for additional accessories for your MacBook or other brand laptop? No problem. Batteries Plus sells UPS systems, surge protectors and more. Do you have additional questions regarding laptop batteries? Read our blog article entitled "Do I Need to Break In a Laptop Battery?" for more information.