Checking Battery Health in Windows Windows does not provide battery health data in an easily accessible way, but you can generate a detailed report using the PowerShell or Command Prompt tool. Follow these steps:

1. Click the Start menu and search for “PowerShell” or “Command Prompt.”
2. Right-click on it and select Run as Administrator.
3. Type the following command and press Enter: powercfg /batteryreport /output "C:\batteryreport.html"
4. The system will generate a report and save it to your C: drive.
5. Open the file by navigating to the saved location and double-clicking batteryreport.html.

If you face a 0x422 error, check whether the Diagnostic Policy Service is enabled in services.msc and enable it if necessary.

The report includes:

• Battery Capacity History: Displays how much charge your battery can hold compared to its original capacity.
• Estimated Battery Life: Shows how long Windows predicts your battery will last under different usage conditions.

If your laptop’s battery health is significantly degraded, you may want to consider replacing it.

Checking Battery Health on macOS For MacBook users, macOS provides built-in tools to monitor battery health. Follow these steps:

1. Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner.
2. Select System Settings > Battery.
3. Look for the battery health status:
   • Normal: The battery is functioning properly.
   • Service Recommended: The battery has degraded significantly.

MacBooks with Apple Silicon chips provide a battery capacity percentage relative to its original condition. To check your battery cycle count:

1. Open System Information from Spotlight or the Applications > Utilities folder.
2. Scroll down to Power in the left sidebar.
3. Locate the Cycle Count value and compare it with the maximum cycle count for your Mac model.

If your MacBook’s battery is no longer holding a charge well, consider replacing it.

Replacing Your Laptop Battery If your battery has deteriorated significantly, replacing it is a cost-effective solution compared to buying a new laptop. Replacement batteries typically cost between $30 and $120, depending on your laptop model.

Many laptops allow user-replaceable batteries, while others, like MacBooks, require specialized tools. Fortunately, various online guides can walk you through the process step by step.

Conclusion Regularly checking your laptop’s battery health helps ensure optimal performance and longevity. If your battery’s capacity has dropped significantly, consider replacing it to extend your laptop’s lifespan and maintain productivity. With simple steps, you can keep your device running efficiently without breaking the bank.

Also Read : Top 5 Samsung Phones for the Ultimate Gaming Experience in 2024

Meanwhile, refurbished iPhones, including Apple-certified models and third-party refurbished devices from retailers like Back Market, offer a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative. Let’s compare the iPhone 16e with refurbished models to see which offers the best value.

iPhone 16e: What’s New?

The iPhone 16e is a blend of old and new technology. Here are its key features:

• Design: Resembles the iPhone 14, featuring an all-screen front with thin bezels.
• Camera: Single 48 MP sensor with pixel-binning 2x zoom (no ultra-wide lens).
• Processor: A18 chip, but with one fewer GPU core than the standard iPhone 16.
• Display: 60 Hz refresh rate (no ProMotion).
• Charging: No MagSafe support.
• Battery Life: 26 hours of video playback.
• Modem: Apple’s new C1 modem, replacing Qualcomm’s.
• Storage Options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB.
• Colors: Limited to black and white.

Comparing the iPhone 16e to Refurbished Models

Key Considerations When Choosing Between the 16e and Refurbished Models

1. Price & Value

The iPhone 16e starts at $599, while a refurbished iPhone 14 can be found for $529, and a refurbished iPhone 15 for around $619. If budget is the priority, a refurbished iPhone 14 offers similar performance and features at a lower price.

2. RAM Advantage

One major advantage of the iPhone 16e is its 8GB RAM (matching the iPhone 16 Pro). Older refurbished models might have 6GB or less, affecting multitasking performance.

3. Camera System

The 16e lacks an ultra-wide camera, which the iPhone 14 and 15 have. If you rely on a dual-camera setup for photography, a refurbished model might be the better choice.

4. Repairability & Longevity

• Apple has improved repairability with recent models, but the iPhone 16e’s design is still untested.
• Refurbished models have established repair processes, with available spare parts and third-party repair support.
• If you want a phone that lasts 9-10 years, check Apple’s update support timeline for each model.

Why Refurbished iPhones Are a Smart Buy

• Significant Savings: Prices are typically 20% lower than new models.
• Certified Warranty: Apple-certified refurbished models come with a full warranty.
• Eco-Friendly Choice: Buying refurbished reduces e-waste and carbon footprint.
• Wide Selection: Depending on availability, you can pick different colors, storage options, and even higher-end models at a discount.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the iPhone 16e or Go Refurbished?

If you’re looking for the latest tech with a longer lifespan, the iPhone 16e is a good choice—but it’s not as much of a budget option as its SE predecessors.

If you want more features (MagSafe, ultra-wide camera, better repairability) at a lower price, a refurbished iPhone 14 or 15 is likely the better deal.

For the ultimate budget-friendly option, waiting for refurbished iPhone 16e models to appear later in the year could give you the best of both worlds.

What do you think? Would you choose a refurbished iPhone over the iPhone 16e? Let us know in the comments!

Also Read : How to Fix Samsung Tablet Charging Issues: Lightning Bolt Icon But Not Charging