What is a "Cycle Count"? Learn how to check your battery health on Windows and Mac, and the magic number for replacement.
Battery Health 101: The "Cycle Count" Secret
Batteries are like tires; they wear out with miles driven. In batteries, we call these "cycles."
What is a Cycle?
One cycle is using 100% of your battery's capacity.
- Example: Tou drain 50% today, charge it, then 50% tomorrow. That equals 1 Cycle.
When is it "Dead"?
Most lithium-ion batteries are rated for 500 to 1,000 cycles.
- 0 - 500 Cycles: Peak performance.
- 500 - 800 Cycles: ~80% Capacity left. Noticed drain.
- 1,000+ Cycles: "Service Recommended." Risks of swelling.
How to Check It
On MacBook:
- Click Apple Logo (Top Left).
- Hold Option Key -> Click System Information.
- Go to Power.
- Look for Cycle Count.
On Windows:
- Open Command Prompt (Cmd).
- Type:
powercfg /batteryreport. - Open the file it creates.
The "Plugged In" Myth
"Can I leave my laptop plugged in 24/7?" Yes, but... modern laptops stop charging at 100%. However, heat kills batteries. If you game while plugged in, the heat degrades the battery faster than the charging does.
The Techfix Recommendation
If you are over 800 cycles, or your battery health is below 80%, change it. A weak battery can cause CPU throttling (slow computer).
📍 Battery Replacement Services: RM 180 - RM 450 depending on model.