Apple Silicon Macs are renowned for their impressive battery life, capable of lasting from sunrise to sunset. However, even with their long-lasting batteries, there are instances where we may find ourselves in need of a charge and lacking access to a power source. So, the question arises: Can we use an external battery to power our laptop? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question.
External batteries
The first consideration to keep in mind is that not all batteries are suitable for charging MacBooks. While some batteries are designed specifically for iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches, we need to select a battery that meets the criteria for charging Apple laptops. It’s important to note that the requirements differ depending on the specific MacBook model, such as the 13-inch MacBook Air versus the 16-inch MacBook Pro.
When searching for a battery for your MacBook, it’s crucial to choose one that features USB-C ports with Power Delivery technology. This technology enables higher power output compared to USB-A ports, making it compatible with the MacBook’s charging requirements.
Additionally, you should consider the minimum output capacity of 30W for 13-inch models and 140W for the newer 16-inch models. However, it’s worth noting that these values may vary slightly between different generations, but significant changes are unlikely to occur that would require you to replace your existing battery.
How does the external battery have to be?
Choosing the right battery for your MacBook involves considering various factors, and one of the most important is the battery’s capacity, measured in mAh (milliampere-hours). Comparing it to mobile phones and tablets, which typically range from around 3,000 to 7,000 mAh, MacBook batteries are much larger.
To ensure sufficient capacity, it’s recommended to select a battery with several times higher capacity than those of mobile devices. A good range to aim for is around 20,000-30,000 mAh, which should provide enough power to charge your MacBook at least once before needing to recharge the external battery itself.
When considering a battery or external power source for your MacBook, it’s important to consider the size and ergonomics. Opting for a lightweight and portable option is crucial, allowing you to easily carry it in your suitcase or backpack without adding excessive weight.
Furthermore, it’s worth examining whether the battery offers multiple connection ports. This feature enables you to charge several devices simultaneously, making it especially convenient if you have multiple devices with significant power needs or if you require a large storage capacity.
After selecting the appropriate external battery, it’s important to be aware of the power transmission during the charging process. It should mimic a regular charging process. If the power being transmitted is insufficient due to using a 30W charger on a device that requires twice its capacity, it’s possible that the battery will not charge at all. In some cases, it may remain constant or even fail to charge the Mac.
In conclusion, it’s essential to remember that using this type of charging method should be reserved for exceptional circumstances. The best practice to protect and extend the battery life of your Mac is by adhering to proper charging techniques with the official Apple charger, allowing for controlled and regular charging intervals.