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User profile for user: MsDalfo2
MsDalfo2 Author
User level: Level 1
8 points

MacBook Pro being charged by external monitor; is this okay for battery health?

I'm assuming this is okay (and see similar questions have been asked), but I want to be sure.


New MacBook Pro, new LG monitor (sold in the Apple store). Noticed that the laptop is staying charged at 100% (and keeps the charging status icon in the toolbar) because I keep it plugged in (USB-C) to the monitor throughout the workday, rarely taking it from my desk. I do unplug it overnight.


I know that battery cycling can be important to the health of a laptop battery, but I can't imagine Apple would sell a product that would harm the life of my battery. Is it alright for it to be charging all day like this?

Posted on Dec 2, 2020 3:54 PM

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User profile for user: BobTheFisherman
BobTheFisherman
User level: Level 10
81,457 points

Posted on Dec 2, 2020 3:57 PM

You can leave the computer plugged in charging when convenient to do so. Neither your computer nor battery will be damaged. An advantage of leaving it plugged in is that the rate of accumulation of battery cycles will be reduced.

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User profile for user: Grant Bennet-Alder
Grant Bennet-Alder
User level: Level 10
132,805 points

Dec 2, 2020 4:05 PM in response to MsDalfo2

An external power supply that provides "USB Power Delivery" (like certain displays)  can not 'force itself' on your Mac. The Voltage and Current are delivered only after your Mac requests and the charger agrees to supply power under certain controlled conditions. The computer is in control of the entire process.


In general, you should ALWAYS connect AC power when it is possible to do so, and only run on batteries (which will be somewhat slower) when no AC sources are at hand. There are three micro-controllers cooperating on battery and charging issues, and your Mac will NEVER over-charge.

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MacBook Pro being charged by external monitor; is this okay for battery health?

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