All lithium-ion batteries degrade over time. After 2-3 years of daily use, most laptop batteries retain 70-80% of their original capacity. Battery replacement restores your laptop’s portability without the cost of a new machine.
How to Check Battery Health
Windows: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run “powercfg /batteryreport”. macOS: Hold Option and click the battery icon, or check System Information → Power for cycle count (Apple batteries rated for 1,000 cycles).
Replacement Options
| Option | Pros | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| OEM Battery | Guaranteed compatibility | £40-100 |
| Third-Party Battery | Lower cost, widely available | £25-60 |
Extending Battery Life
Keep charge between 20-80% when possible. Avoid leaving plugged in at 100% continuously — many modern laptops have a battery limiter in BIOS. Store at 40-60% if unused for extended periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I replace my battery?
Replace when it holds less than 50% of original capacity, or when you can’t get through a reasonable work session.
Are third-party batteries safe?
Quality third-party batteries from reputable brands are generally safe. Avoid ultra-cheap no-name batteries.
