Summary
Laptop battery draining fast? Learn how to check your battery's health on Windows and Mac, what the numbers mean, and when to get help.
Body
Laptop battery not lasting like it used to? Batteries wear out over time. Here's how to check yours on a Windows laptop or MacBook, and what to do about it.
Windows
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Open Command Prompt
Select Start, type cmd, and open Command Prompt.
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Create a battery report
Type powercfg /batteryreport and press Enter. Windows saves a file called battery-report.html and shows where.
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Open the report
Open that file in your browser. Compare Design Capacity with Full Charge Capacity. The lower the full charge number is compared to design, the more the battery has worn.
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Mac
Select Apple menu > System Settings > Battery, then select the info (i) button next to Battery Health. You'll see the maximum capacity and whether service is recommended.
Get more from each charge
- Lower your screen brightness.
- Close apps and browser tabs you aren't using.
- Turn on Battery saver (Windows) or Low Power Mode (Mac) when you're away from a charger.
Swollen battery? Stop using it.
If the case is bulging, the trackpad is lifting, or the laptop gets unusually hot, turn it off, unplug it, and get help right away.
Get help
For an NCU laptop, submit a request through Computer and Device Hardware Troubleshooting. For your own laptop, see Help with Your Personal Device.
Still need help? Contact the IT Service Desk:
- Call: 612.343.4170
- Visit: Miller Hall 226
- Hours: Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. CT