I effectively use it as a desktop, connected to one external monitor. I use the MacBook itself as a second monitor.
MacBook Pro 14″, macOS 14.6
That computer is a battery-CAPABLE device. It is not optimized as a battery-operated device. (It is NOT an iPhone.)
In general, you should ALWAYS connect a power source when it is possible to do so, and only run on batteries (which could be somewhat slower) when no power sources are at hand. Your Mac will NEVER over-charge.
That blocky device that plugs into the wall is the POWER ADAPTER. I am not trying to be a jerk about terminology, what these boxes do and how they do it is essential for understanding how they all work together. The LEDs in the MagSafe end are controlled by commands from the computer.
The CHARGER is inside the MacBook Pro, and is completely under program control. Your Mac accepts some power when needs to run, and accepts more power when intends to charge its internal battery. A power source like the Power Adapter can not 'force itself' on your MacBook Pro. Only the algorithms inside your Mac can decide when is a good time to charge the battery.
Since someone mentioned exercising their Mac on battery alone, monthly, Apple no longer recommends that. That function has been incorporated into general battery algorithms.
Do not spend a moment thinking about or fussing with your battery. That is great job -- for a computer.
And will go bad especially quick if you leave it in storage for a long period of time. Better to use than to store!
Thanks, I appreciate the advice.
Could you briefly explain reason for draining it? Does it need to have 'charging cycles' for the health of the battery?
Initially, I was thinking I would just unplug it every night, and let it go into sleep mode, not sure if that would be of any significance or not.
I actually very much appreciate how specific you are about the terminology. Your response is precisely what I was looking for. It contained the detail and knowledge I was seeking. I do not like hearsay, or watered down answers. This is why I came to this forum. I am using this setup for my business, and I do not have time to be fussing, or hyper focusing on anything that does not bring me closer to my goal.
Thank you.
And, thank the rest of you for taking the time to respond.
[Edited by Moderator]
Great information here!
The beauty of life is that you learn something new everyday! 👍
Ah yes, forgot to add that. Store it half charged for long term, thanks.
Is it ok to leave my 14 inch Macbook M3 Pro Max plugged in all the time while I use it?
