Should I keep the iPad 2 plugged in whenever I can?

Question

Should I keep the iPad 2 plugged in whenever I can?

I have seen many discussions regarding Lithium-Ion batteries but am not yet sure whether I should keep my new iPad 2 plugged in to the power outlet whenever I can conveniently do so? As long as I deplete the battery completely once a month as suggested at http://www.apple.com/batteries/ipad.html, having the power adapater plugged in would reduce the overall number of charge cycles and thereby enhance the life of the battery, or?

Would it be better to unplug it when it is fully charged in order to not overheat/overcharge the iPad?

Thanks for any advice!

Nancy

iPad 2, iOS 4.3.2

Posted on Apr 24, 2011 11:08 AM

Reply

Answer 1

Apr 24, 2011 11:35 AM in response to Nancy California

Plug it in when it's convenient. It will stop charing when it gets to 100%. If it appear to be overheating, there's something wrong either with you iPad or your wiring.

Reply

Answer 2

Apr 24, 2011 2:15 PM in response to IdrisSeabright

Thanks Meg, appreciate it! No, I haven't noticed any overheating, just was wondering if that could happen.

Reply

Answer 3

hawleyrw

Level 3

629 points

Apr 24, 2011 3:28 PM in response to Nancy California

The best maintenance for any battery is to use it as much as possible. Charge it when the battery gets low (turns red). I let mine go as low as possible considering my circumstances (when I'm just sitting at home is one thing, when I'm on the go, it's another).

Batteries (no matter the technologly behind them), do best when the battery is used like it's supposed to - use until it needs charging, then charge to full charge. Leaving the charger on there causes no risk - it can't overcharge and shouldn't ever overheat. BUT - don't leave your iPad charging ALL THE TIME. It's best way to have a battery that won't hold it's charge when you need it to.

I've seen all too many folks who've had laptops, keeping them plugged in all the time, then wonder why when they do use the battery, it no longer works. I hear the same thing: "I haven't even used the battery!".

Just remember, batteries are meant to be USED...so let them do their job. Charge/Discharge/Charge....and so on.

Cheers!

Reply

Answer 4

Apr 25, 2011 1:16 AM in response to hawleyrw

Thanks hawleyrw for a detailed reply, appreciate it! Sounds like using batteries are like using muscles, if you don't use them, they will atrophy!

Reply

Answer 5

Jun 14, 2012 12:14 PM in response to Nancy California

Why cant we get any concensus on this? There should be any easy answer. Yes or no?

Reply

Answer 6

Jun 14, 2012 1:35 PM in response to rexluther

Here is what Apple says on the subject:

http://www.apple.com/batteries/ipad.html

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4060

Here is an additional resource:

http://batteryuniversity.com/

However, for most consumer devices which will only be used for 2-3 years, it really doesn't matter that much. Don't waste too much time worrying about the battery. Just use and enjoy your device.

Best of luck.

Reply