IPhone 12 Pro Battery At 87%: Should You Replace?

Hey guys, let's talk about your iPhone 12 Pro's battery. Specifically, what happens when it hits that 87% mark. It's a common question, and honestly, the answer isn't always a straightforward yes or no. The truth is, it depends on a bunch of factors, but we'll break it down so you know exactly what to consider. So, is it time for a battery replacement?

Understanding Your iPhone 12 Pro Battery Health

First off, let's get on the same page about how to check your battery health. It's super easy, and it gives you a quick snapshot of where your battery's at. You can find this in your iPhone's settings. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap on Battery.
3. Tap on Battery Health & Charging.

Here, you'll see the Maximum Capacity. This percentage is a measure of your battery's capacity relative to when it was brand new. 87% means your battery can hold 87% of the charge it could when it was fresh out of the box. Apple considers a battery in normal condition if it retains up to 80% of its original capacity. Anything below that is when they suggest a battery service, which includes replacement. So, in the case of your iPhone 12 Pro, is your battery health at 87%, it's still within the range of acceptable performance, technically. However, the performance and experience might not feel as optimal compared to when the battery was new. Over time, the chemical reactions inside your battery degrade. This means it can't hold as much charge, leading to shorter battery life. You might find yourself charging your phone more often, or it might shut down unexpectedly when the battery indicator shows a remaining charge.

The Impact of 87% Battery Health

So, what does an 87% battery health actually mean in practice? Let's be real, a battery at 87% isn't going to give you the same juice as a brand new one. You might notice your phone dying faster than it used to, especially if you're a heavy user. This means you are constantly on your phone, streaming videos, playing graphic intensive games, or using GPS navigation. It is also important to consider if you work in an area with a weak cellular signal. The phone will drain more battery trying to maintain the signal. If you find yourself constantly reaching for a charger by late afternoon, the battery degradation is affecting your daily usage. You may not necessarily need to replace the battery immediately, but you should prepare yourself to plug in your phone more frequently than before. Another sign is that your phone might feel slower. As batteries age, they sometimes struggle to provide the peak power your phone needs for demanding tasks. This can lead to your phone slowing down, or in extreme cases, your iPhone might shut down unexpectedly to protect its internal components.

Factors to Consider Before Replacing Your iPhone 12 Pro Battery

Before you make the call to replace your battery, consider these aspects:

• Your Usage: How do you typically use your iPhone? If you're a heavy user who streams videos, plays games, or uses power-hungry apps, the reduced battery life at 87% might be more noticeable. On the other hand, if you're a light user, you may still be able to get through a day without any issues.
• Charging Habits: Do you often charge your phone throughout the day? If you have access to a charger, the reduced battery capacity may be less of an issue, as you can easily top up your phone whenever needed. But, if you're frequently away from chargers, the shorter battery life can become a real pain in the neck.
• Performance Needs: Are you satisfied with the current performance of your iPhone? As mentioned earlier, older batteries sometimes affect performance. If your phone feels sluggish or if apps take longer to load, it might be a sign that a new battery is needed.
• Budget: Replacing a battery does come with a cost. You can choose to have it done at the Apple store or an authorized service provider, but you can also go to a third-party repair shop. Consider your budget and whether the improved battery life is worth the investment.

Advantages of Replacing Your Battery

If you decide to replace your battery, you'll experience several benefits. Firstly, you will get extended battery life, so you can stay unplugged for longer, which is super convenient, especially when you are traveling or out and about. Secondly, it is very likely that you will notice improved performance. A new battery can provide the power your iPhone needs, which results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and overall better performance. Besides this, you might notice an increased phone responsiveness with all the processes running smoother, and your iPhone will feel more snappy. A new battery can also ensure your iPhone does not shut down unexpectedly. This is important to ensure you don't lose any unsaved data or miss any important notifications.

Disadvantages of Replacing Your Battery

It is important to acknowledge any potential drawbacks of replacing your battery, even though the benefits usually outweigh the cons. Here are some of the potential downsides:

• Cost: Battery replacement costs money, and the price will depend on where you go, and who performs the replacement. Also, the quality of the replacement battery is very important. Cheaper batteries might not last as long as the original, and could even cause problems. Carefully weigh the benefits of a new battery against the cost of the repair.
• Downtime: Your iPhone will be out of commission for a while, while the repair is done. The time it takes will depend on the repair shop, or Apple's service center. Make sure to back up your iPhone before sending it in, in case something goes wrong.
• Potential for Third-Party Repairs: If you don't go with Apple's official service, it opens up the possibility of using third-party repair shops, which can sometimes come with risks. Not all shops use high-quality parts, and some repairs might void your warranty. Always do your research and choose a reputable shop.

Making Your Decision: Should You Replace Your Battery?

So, back to the big question: Should you replace your iPhone 12 Pro's battery at 87% health? Here's a simple guide to help you decide:

• If you're a heavy user and find your battery dying quickly: It's probably a good idea to replace it. The improved battery life will significantly enhance your experience.
• If you're a light user and the battery life is still acceptable: You can probably hold off for a while. Keep an eye on the battery health and monitor your usage.
• If your phone feels sluggish or shuts down unexpectedly: Consider a replacement sooner rather than later. This indicates your battery is affecting performance.
• If you frequently travel or can't always access a charger: A battery replacement might be a good investment to ensure you stay connected.

Essentially, there's no magic number. It's about weighing your needs and how you use your phone. At 87%, your battery is still usable, but you might start feeling the limitations. Consider your habits, budget, and desired phone performance to make the best decision for you. Getting your iPhone battery replaced can breathe new life into it, but it's not always a necessity. Think about what works best for you and your phone's performance. Good luck!