The MacBook Pro is a powerful laptop designed for professionals and heavy users who require a reliable machine that can keep up with their demanding tasks. One of the most significant concerns for users who are constantly on-the-go is battery life. With the constant need to stay connected and productive, having a reliable power source is crucial. In recent years, external batteries have become increasingly popular as a means to extend the battery life of laptops, smartphones, and other portable devices. But the question remains: can you charge a MacBook Pro with an external battery?
Understanding the MacBook Pro’s Power Requirements
Before we dive into the world of external batteries, it’s essential to understand the power requirements of the MacBook Pro. Apple’s flagship laptop requires a significant amount of power to operate, especially when running demanding applications like video editing software, 3D modeling tools, or other resource-intensive programs.
The MacBook Pro’s power requirements vary depending on the model and specifications. For example, the 15-inch MacBook Pro with a Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD has a rated power consumption of around 87W. The 13-inch model with a Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 256GB SSD has a rated power consumption of around 61W.
To put these numbers into perspective, the average external battery pack designed for laptops usually has a capacity of around 20,000mAh to 50,000mAh. While these battery packs can charge smaller devices like smartphones and tablets multiple times, they may not be enough to fully charge a MacBook Pro.
What Type of External Battery Do You Need?
When it comes to choosing an external battery to charge your MacBook Pro, there are a few factors to consider. The type of battery you need depends on the MacBook Pro model you own, the type of charging port it has, and the power requirements mentioned earlier.
There are two main types of external batteries:
- Batteries with a USB-C port: These batteries are designed to charge devices with a USB-C port, such as the latest MacBook Pro models. They can deliver up to 100W of power, making them suitable for charging larger devices like laptops.
- Batteries with a DC input: These batteries have a DC input that can be used to charge devices with a DC power adapter, such as older MacBook Pro models. They can deliver higher levels of power, making them suitable for charging laptops with higher power requirements.
When choosing an external battery, look for one that has a high capacity, high-power output, and a compatible charging port.
Charging a MacBook Pro with an External Battery: What Are the Options?
Now that we’ve discussed the power requirements of the MacBook Pro and the type of external battery you need, let’s explore the options for charging your MacBook Pro with an external battery.
Option 1: USB-C External Battery Packs
One of the most popular options for charging a MacBook Pro with an external battery is using a USB-C external battery pack. These battery packs have a USB-C port that can deliver up to 100W of power, making them suitable for charging MacBook Pros with a USB-C port.
Some popular USB-C external battery packs include:
- Anker PowerCore Fusion: This battery pack has a capacity of 20,000mAh and can deliver up to 100W of power. It’s compact, lightweight, and has multiple USB ports for charging other devices.
- Mophie Powerstation USB-C XXL: This battery pack has a capacity of 20,800mAh and can deliver up to 100W of power. It’s designed specifically for charging larger devices like laptops and has a sleek, compact design.
Option 2: DC External Battery Packs
If you have an older MacBook Pro model with a DC power adapter, you can use a DC external battery pack to charge your laptop. These battery packs have a DC output that can deliver higher levels of power, making them suitable for charging laptops with higher power requirements.
Some popular DC external battery packs include:
- Antec PowerUp 20000: This battery pack has a capacity of 20,000mAh and can deliver up to 120W of power. It has a DC output and is designed for charging laptops with higher power requirements.
- Goal Zero Sherpa 100: This battery pack has a capacity of 24,000mAh and can deliver up to 100W of power. It has a DC output and is designed for charging laptops, tablets, and other devices.
Charging Your MacBook Pro with an External Battery: What to Expect
When charging your MacBook Pro with an external battery, there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Charging Time: The time it takes to fully charge your MacBook Pro with an external battery will depend on the capacity of the battery pack and the power requirements of your laptop. On average, it can take around 2-5 hours to fully charge a MacBook Pro with an external battery.
- Power Output: The power output of the external battery will also affect the charging time. A battery pack with a higher power output will charge your MacBook Pro faster than one with a lower power output.
- Compatibility: Make sure the external battery you choose is compatible with your MacBook Pro model. Check the charging port and power requirements to ensure compatibility.
- Safety: When charging your MacBook Pro with an external battery, make sure to follow proper safety precautions. Avoid overheating, overcharging, and short-circuiting, which can damage your laptop or battery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, charging a MacBook Pro with an external battery is possible, but it requires careful consideration of the power requirements of your laptop and the type of external battery you need. When choosing an external battery, look for one with a high capacity, high-power output, and a compatible charging port.
While there are limitations to charging a MacBook Pro with an external battery, it can be a convenient and reliable way to extend the battery life of your laptop. Just remember to follow proper safety precautions and choose an external battery that meets your needs.
| External Battery | Capacity | Power Output | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anker PowerCore Fusion | 20,000mAh | Up to 100W | USB-C MacBook Pros |
| Mophie Powerstation USB-C XXL | 20,800mAh | Up to 100W | USB-C MacBook Pros |
| Antec PowerUp 20000 | 20,000mAh | Up to 120W | DC MacBook Pros |
| Goal Zero Sherpa 100 | 24,000mAh | Up to 100W | DC MacBook Pros |
Note: The table above provides a summary of some popular external battery packs that can be used to charge a MacBook Pro. The capacity, power output, and compatibility of each battery pack are listed.
Can I charge my MacBook Pro with just any external battery?
You should not attempt to charge your MacBook Pro with just any external battery. Not all external batteries are designed to charge laptops, and using the wrong one can damage your device or even cause a safety hazard. It’s essential to choose an external battery that is specifically designed to charge laptops and has the correct output voltage and amperage rating.
Look for an external battery with a high-capacity rating, typically measured in watt-hours (Wh), and a USB-C port that supports Power Delivery (PD) or USB PD. The MacBook Pro requires a minimum of 61W of power to charge, so ensure the external battery can provide at least that much. Additionally, consider the size, weight, and durability of the external battery, as well as its compatibility with other devices you may want to charge.
What is the maximum capacity of an external battery that I can use to charge my MacBook Pro?
There is no maximum capacity limit for an external battery that you can use to charge your MacBook Pro, but there are some practical considerations to keep in mind. Larger capacity external batteries are typically heavier, larger, and more expensive. However, they can provide more extended battery life and more charge cycles for your MacBook Pro.
When choosing an external battery, consider how often you plan to use it, how much power you need, and what features are essential to you. A higher-capacity external battery may be beneficial if you’re always on the go or need to charge multiple devices at once. On the other hand, a smaller capacity external battery may be more portable and convenient for casual use.
Can I charge my MacBook Pro with an external battery simultaneously with the original charger?
Yes, you can charge your MacBook Pro with an external battery simultaneously with the original charger. This is known as “dual charging” or “pass-through charging.” However, not all external batteries support this feature, so make sure to check the specifications before making a purchase.
When dual charging, your MacBook Pro will prioritize the power source with the highest wattage rating. If you’re using a high-wattage external battery, it may be able to charge your MacBook Pro faster than the original charger. Dual charging can be convenient, especially if you need to top off your battery quickly or charge multiple devices at once.
How long does it take to fully charge my MacBook Pro with an external battery?
The time it takes to fully charge your MacBook Pro with an external battery depends on several factors, including the capacity of the external battery, the output voltage and amperage rating, and the type of USB-C port used. Generally, a higher-capacity external battery with a faster charging speed will charge your MacBook Pro more quickly.
On average, it can take anywhere from 2-5 hours to fully charge a MacBook Pro with an external battery, assuming the external battery has a capacity of around 20,000mAh. However, this time may vary depending on the specific devices and charging conditions. It’s essential to check the specifications of the external battery and your MacBook Pro to estimate the charging time more accurately.
Can I use an external battery to charge my MacBook Pro while it’s in use?
Yes, you can use an external battery to charge your MacBook Pro while it’s in use, but with some caveats. If you’re using a high-wattage external battery that can provide enough power to both charge your MacBook Pro and power its components, you can continue to use your device while charging.
However, if the external battery cannot provide enough power, your MacBook Pro may not charge or may charge slowly. Additionally, using an external battery to charge your MacBook Pro while it’s in use can increase the risk of overheating, so make sure to monitor the temperature and adjust your usage accordingly.
Are external batteries safe to use with my MacBook Pro?
When used correctly, external batteries are generally safe to use with your MacBook Pro. However, as with any electrical device, there are some risks involved, such as overheating, electrical shock, or fire.
To minimize the risks, choose a high-quality external battery from a reputable manufacturer that has built-in safety features, such as overcharge protection, short-circuit protection, and heat dissipation. Additionally, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use, storage, and maintenance, and avoid using damaged or modified external batteries.
Can I use an external battery to charge other devices besides my MacBook Pro?
Yes, you can use an external battery to charge other devices besides your MacBook Pro, such as smartphones, tablets, or other laptops. Most external batteries come with multiple USB ports that can charge multiple devices simultaneously.
Look for an external battery with a variety of output ports, such as USB-A, USB-C, and DC outlets, to ensure compatibility with different devices. Additionally, consider the maximum output power of the external battery and the power requirements of the devices you want to charge to ensure safe and efficient charging.