Unable to start my MacBook Pro running macOS Catalina

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Unable to start my MacBook Pro running macOS Catalina

I was using my 2020 MBP/Catalina & noticed battery was very low. During normal use it gets low. I plug in the power & go on with my normal life, but this time plugging it in seemed to slow down the loss of power but not stop it. It kept losing power even though plugged in though plugging it in seemed to slow down the charge loss, but it wasn’t stopping it. I tested it for a few minutes, Then I shut it down & haven’t tried to start it again.

I was thinking the battery just wore out & tomorrow I’ll get a new one at an Apple store. But I was reading posts here & it sounds like there could be other problems. I’ve had Mac laptops since around 2020 . I don’t remember a battery dying on previous Mac’s, usually I’ve gotten a new one relating to other problems.

im wanting to learn anything more I can about what might be happening . Does it sound like I need a new battery? Or any other problems?

I got the MBP from Apple in October 2020. It has Catalina.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Seems like battery died 2020 MBP Catalina

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 10.12

Posted on Jun 8, 2025 12:20 AM

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Answer 1

Jun 8, 2025 7:12 AM in response to jaw444

That computer is a battery-CAPABLE device. It is not optimized as a battery-operated device. (It is NOT an iPhone.)

Your computer performs best when connected to AC power, such as the power adapter. It can use the full output of the Power Adapter AND when doing especially challenging work will also freely "borrow" power from the battery. In some cases, even with the power adapter connected, the charged state may decline during very stressful work.

When used only on battery, your computer has no extra cushion of power, and may perform more slowly. However, for ordinary non-stressful tasks this may not be objectionable (possibly not even noticeable.)

In general, you should ALWAYS connect a power source when it is possible to do so, and only run on batteries (which could be somewhat slower) when no power sources are at hand. Your Mac maintains optimum battery charge levels under program control, and will NEVER over-charge. Be sure to turn on Battery Health Management, if available to you.

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Answer 2

Jun 8, 2025 8:03 AM in response to jaw444

All batteries die. Some faster than others.

Using the computer on battery power most of the time is the easiest and fastest way to rack up the recharge cycles. While cycles are only one factor that affects battery life, it's wise to minimize the effect.

The best guidance for getting the most from your battery:

• Plug in when using the computer near available power.

• Use on battery when ac is unavailable.

• Don’t subject the computer and battery to extreme temperatures.

• Let the OS and charging circuits manage the charging.

• Try not to allow the battery to discharge deeply regularly before plugging in. Yes, it may happen from time to time, just don't make it a habit.

• Don't obsess over battery life and/or health.

Here is Apple's guidance on the subject.

Batteries - Maximizing Performance - Apple Support

About battery health management in Mac laptops - Apple Support

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