How To Make A Mac Stop Charging At 80%

You’ve probably heard varying advice on charging your Mac, with some experts suggesting that stopping the charge at 80% can improve your battery’s longevity. Here’s a detailed guide on how to achieve this and extend your Mac’s battery life.

1. Unplug Manually at 80%

The simplest method is to unplug your Mac once it reaches 80%. This requires monitoring the battery percentage and unplugging it at the right time. While straightforward, it might not be convenient if you often leave your Mac unattended while charging.

2. Enable Optimized Battery Charging

Apple has introduced Optimized Battery Charging to help extend your battery’s lifespan. This feature predicts your charging habits and adjusts the charging rate to reduce battery wear.

Steps to Enable Optimized Battery Charging:

1. Open your Mac and go to the Apple Menu.
2. Select System Preferences.
3. Click on Battery.
4. In the Battery window, select Battery from the sidebar.
5. Check the box for Optimized Battery Charging.

This feature adjusts the charging speed based on your usage patterns, often keeping the charge around 80% if it predicts that you will keep it plugged in for a long time.

3. Use Third-Party Applications

Several third-party apps can help manage your Mac’s charging to stop at 80%. Here are some popular options:

AlDente

• Download and install AlDente.
• Open the application from the Applications folder.
• Follow the prompts to install the Helper application.
• Disable Optimized Battery Charging in System Preferences > Battery.
• Set the charge limit to 80% using the slider in AlDente.

Charge Limiter

• Download and install Charge Limiter.
• Open the app and set the limit to 80%.
• Click Set Charge Limit.

BatteryStatusShow

• Download and install BatteryStatusShow.
• Open the app and set the charge limit to 80% using the slider.
• Confirm the setting, and it will stop charging at 80%.

4. Manual Configuration for Developers

Advanced users can manually configure the maximum charge level using developer tools. This method involves using terminal commands to set the battery charge limit.

Note: This method is complex and recommended only for those familiar with terminal commands and system configurations.

5. Alternative Methods

Let it Fully Charge or Leave It Plugged In

Some experts suggest that fully charging your Mac occasionally or keeping it plugged in for prolonged periods can also be beneficial. Modern battery technology is quite advanced, and these methods won’t significantly harm your battery.

Monitor Cycle Count and Battery Health

Regularly check your battery’s health and cycle count to understand its condition better.

Checking Battery Health and Cycle Count

1. Open your Mac and go to the Apple Menu.
2. Select About This Mac.
3. Click on System Report.
4. In the sidebar, select Power.
5. Here, you can see the cycle count and overall battery health.

Checking Battery Health and Cycle Count

1. Open your Mac and go to the Apple Menu.
2. Select About This Mac.
3. Click on System Report.
4. In the sidebar, select Power.
5. Here, you can see the cycle count and overall battery health.

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