Does it ruin a laptop if the battery is always connected? The answer is clear

Many people use their laptop with the power plug in all the time. But is it really harmful to the battery? Here’s what you need to know.

It’s convenient to have your laptop plugged in all the time when working at your desk for long periods of time.

But the question arises: Is it harmful to the battery when the computer is constantly charging?

The answer depends on both the age of the device and how you use it.

For older models with older battery technology, constant charging can be harmful.

There is a risk of overcharging, which can shorten both lifespan and capacity.

Disconnecting the power once in a while and letting the battery run down completely before recharging can better protect the battery.

It is also recommended to avoid leaving the battery at 100 percent all the time, as this increases voltage and heat.

These are two factors that accelerate battery aging.

Modern laptops handle charging smarter

Most newer computers have built-in protection systems that stop charging when the battery is full.

Instead, power is fed directly to the system without putting any strain on the battery.

So-called trickle charging keeps the battery at a stable level with minimal current pulses, reducing wear and tear.

But even for these devices, constant heat and voltage can damage the battery over time.

Lithium-ion batteries typically last between 500 and 1,000 charge cycles, after which the capacity starts to decrease.

If your laptop has the option to remove the battery, it’s a good idea to take it out when the machine is used stationary for longer periods of time.

This way you avoid unnecessary strain.

Many newer computers also offer “Smart Charging”, where the battery is not fully charged, but instead stays around 80 percent of its capacity.

In general, batteries do best when they are kept between 30 and 70 percent charge.

By trying to keep the battery level in this range, you can significantly extend battery life.

It’s also important to use original charging equipment, as cheap or unoriginal chargers can damage both battery and computer.

In addition, extreme temperatures should be avoided. This applies to both extreme heat and cold, which can be harmful.

Especially direct sunlight and frost are recommended to protect the computer from.