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I got the new MacBook Air 2020 17 days ago and my cycle count is at 9. I’ve seen people saying they only use 1 cycle count a week. Is mine high? How can I reduce my cycle counts? Also, can I leave it plugged in 24/7? Sorry if I sound paranoid, this is my first laptop and I want to make use of it the best way possible :]
MacBook Air 13″, macOS 11.0
If you use your computer on battery until you get the warning that it needs to be recharged and recharge it the computer will record that as a cycle. Partial cycles are also counted, so if you use 1/2 the battery and recharge it, that will be recorded as a 1/2 cycle even though the report doesn’t show partial cycles.
If you need to use the computer away from an electrical outlet, do so. Presumably that’s why you bought the MBA and not a desktop. If an outlet is conveniently nearby, plug it in. Don’t worry about cycles. Use the computer.
If you use your computer on battery until you get the warning that it needs to be recharged and recharge it the computer will record that as a cycle. Partial cycles are also counted, so if you use 1/2 the battery and recharge it, that will be recorded as a 1/2 cycle even though the report doesn’t show partial cycles.
If you need to use the computer away from an electrical outlet, do so. Presumably that’s why you bought the MBA and not a desktop. If an outlet is conveniently nearby, plug it in. Don’t worry about cycles. Use the computer.
Also, can I leave it plugged in 24/7?
Yes.
Basically do what dwb recommended. And although it's the furthest thing from the scientific method, it has been my experience that users who pay the least attention to how they use their Macs derive the greatest battery life from them. Seriously. Just use it. Apple obsessed about such minutia so you don't have to.
If you are near an AC outlet, leave it connected to the charge circuit.
If you need portability, use it on battery power.
How can I reduce cycle counts on my MacBook Air 2020?
