// WINDOWS

How to Make Your Laptop Battery Last Longer

If your laptop doesn’t last as long as it used to, a few simple changes can stretch each charge — and help the battery last for years. Here is how.

Published 16 June 2026 · Windows · by the 365 Techies team — Microsoft Partners & Dell specialists, looking after Dorset since 1995

Some quick habits make a real difference to how long each charge lasts, and how long the battery stays healthy overall.

Get more from each charge

The screen is the biggest drain, so turn down the brightness. Switch on Battery saver when you’re unplugged (Settings > System > Power & battery), close apps and browser tabs you’re not using, and unplug accessories you don’t need. You can see which apps use the most power in the same settings.

Keep the battery healthy

Avoid letting the laptop get very hot, and don’t worry about leaving it plugged in occasionally — modern batteries cope fine. If it no longer holds a useful charge, the battery itself may be worn out, and we can usually replace it. Not sure if it’s worth it? Try our repair-or-replace advisor.

Key points

  • Turn down the screen brightness
  • Switch on Battery saver when unplugged
  • Close apps and browser tabs you are not using
  • Unplug accessories you do not need
  • Check which apps drain the most in Settings
  • Avoid letting the laptop get very hot
  • Replace a worn-out battery if it no longer holds charge

Prefer to let us handle it? Our monthly IT support plans include this and much more, from £18.25/month per computer — with a friendly techie on hand whenever you need one. Call 01202 775566 or view our plans.

// GOOD QUESTIONS

Frequently asked

Should I leave my laptop plugged in all the time?

It’s fine occasionally — modern laptops manage charging sensibly. For battery health, it’s good to let it discharge and recharge sometimes rather than sitting at 100% forever.

Why does my battery drain so fast?

Often high brightness, lots of background apps, or an ageing battery. The steps above help — and if it’s worn out, a replacement restores it.

Can a worn-out laptop battery be replaced?

Usually, yes — on many laptops we can fit a new battery. See computer repairs for a no-fix-no-fee check.

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