Why is my MacBook Pro M5's cycle count already 2 after one charge?

Yes, that's normal.

It is not uncommon for a new battery to have some number of recharge cycles registered. It's likely due to quality assurance testing done at the time of manufacturing.

Two cycles is low. We've seen some counts in the double digits.

Nothing to be concerned about.

Meanwhile, here is some of Apple's guidance regarding battery health and management:

Batteries - Maximizing Performance - Apple Support

About battery health management in Mac laptops - Apple Support 

In a nutshell, 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.  

❝Worry is the misuse of imagination.❞ – Zadra

Consider that it was likely (minimally) charged once at the factory so you do not receive a completely dead Mac.

Getting a new Mac with under a dozen charge cycles already is like getting a brand new car with a hundred miles on it.

It was tested to make sure it worked GREAT so that you do not have any problems charging it.

Not_why wrote:

I bought a MacBook Pro m5 3 days ago, but the cycle count is already 2. I’ve only charged it once. Is this normal?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: MacBook Pro m5

?

This is not an issue. Normal.

You have an expect 1000 cycle count before service.

The rule of thumb—if you are near the mains leave it plugged in, if you need the portability then run on the battery only—this is how you help optimize your battery charging and extend the working life of your battery by reducing the cycle count.