Charging to 100%? Here’s Why It Might Be Harming Your Phone Battery

Modern smartphones are increasingly being designed with non-removable batteries, raising concerns about how well these batteries will hold up over time, especially as brands like Samsung and Google now offer over five years of software updates. For those looking to maintain their device’s battery health, many new Android smartphones and iPhones now include a feature that allows users to limit charging to 80%. While this might seem unusual, capping the charge can actually help prolong the battery’s lifespan and enhance its long-term performance.

Why Limiting Battery Charge to 80% Works
The idea of stopping charging at 80% isn’t arbitrary—it’s rooted in science. Smartphone batteries degrade primarily due to heat and voltage. While heat can be managed by avoiding excessive fast charging and keeping the device cool, voltage wear is harder to control. This type of wear occurs during the charging process, particularly when the battery is nearing full capacity.

During charging, the battery experiences higher voltage levels in the first 60% of the cycle, which then tapers off as it approaches 100%. While occasional full charges aren’t harmful, consistently charging to 100% can accelerate battery degradation . By limiting the charge to 80%, the battery avoids reaching peak voltage levels, reducing wear and tear over time.

Should You Limit Your Battery to 80%?
It’s important to note that all batteries degrade over time, regardless of how well they’re maintained. Limiting charging to 80% is not a permanent solution but rather a way to slow down the aging process. Whether this strategy is beneficial for you depends on your usage patterns.

For example, if you frequently have access to a charger—such as at your desk or home—limiting your battery to 80% can be a practical choice. In such cases, topping up the remaining 20% takes only a few minutes when needed. This approach is also ideal for heavy users, such as those who rely on tablets or smartphones for work throughout the day. While the benefits may not be immediately noticeable, they can make a significant difference if you plan to use the device for several years.

On the other hand, if you’re often on the move without access to a charger or power bank, that extra 20% could be crucial. This is especially true for mobile gamers or individuals with irregular charging habits. In such cases, prioritizing convenience over battery health might be more practical.

What If Your Battery Degrades Over Time?
Fortunately, most smartphone manufacturers now offer affordable battery replacement services. If the company doesn’t provide this option, third-party stores often carry spare batteries for popular models, ensuring your device can continue to perform well even after years of use.

How to Enable 80% Battery Charging
Modern Android and iPhone devices make it easy to limit battery charging. On Samsung phones, this feature is available under “Battery Protection,” while OnePlus devices label it as “Battery Health.” For iPhone users, Optimised Battery Charging is enabled by default, but you can customize the charge limit by navigating to Settings > Battery > Charging and selecting a pre-set option.

By taking advantage of these features, you can help extend your smartphone’s battery life, ensuring it remains reliable for years to come. Whether or not you choose to limit charging to 80%, understanding the science behind battery health can empower you to make informed decisions about your device’s care.