Macbook charged to 100% on external display, all day

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Macbook charged to 100% on external display, all day

I use my MacBook Air (2024) connected to an external display via a USB-C cable throughout the day while I work. The cable also charges my laptop, so it reaches 100% very early in the morning and stays at 100% for the rest of the day while still plugged in.

I would like to know, does keeping it at 100% like this cause significant long-term battery damage? I know macOS has an optimized battery charging feature, but mine never seems to stop at 80%. It always charges fully to 100% and, as I mentioned, remains like that all day. Thanks!

Posted on Aug 13, 2025 05:50 AM

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Answer 1

Aug 13, 2025 07:04 AM in response to 1questionfromeve

To get the most from your battery:

• Let the OS and charging circuits manage the charging.

• Plug in when using the computer near available power.

• Use on battery when ac is unavailable or when you must be mobile.

• Don’t subject the computer and battery to extreme temperatures.

• Don’t allow the battery to regularly discharge deeply before plugging in. Yes, it may happen from time to time, just don't make it a habit.

• Don't obsess over battery life and/or health.

Here is Apple's guidance on the subject.

Batteries - Maximizing Performance - Apple Support

About battery health management in Mac laptops - Apple Support

An 80% charge is not the goal, it's a side effect.

If battery charging is paused or on hold on your Mac - Apple Support

❝Optimized Battery Charging is designed to improve the lifespan of your battery and reduce the time your Mac spends fully charged. When the feature is enabled, your Mac will delay charging past 80% in certain situations. Your Mac learns your charging routine and aims to ensure that your Mac is fully charged when unplugged.❞

❝Worry is the misuse of imagination.❞ – Zadra

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