Safer Alternatives for Apple A1398 15-inch Li-Ion Battery
Apple recently recalled around 1.8 million lithium-ion batteries with cells made by Sony, due to a potential overheating risk that could pose a safety hazard. While Apple products are generally known for their quality and reliability, battery issues can occur even in premium devices. If you own a 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display (model A1398), which was not part of the Sony battery recall but may still experience battery aging or malfunction, you may need to replace your battery to avoid performance problems or safety concerns.
One option for replacing your A1398 battery is to buy an original Apple battery from an authorized dealer or service provider. However, this can be expensive and may not always be available, especially if your MacBook Pro is an older model. Another option is to look for third-party or aftermarket batteries that can provide similar performance and reliability at a lower cost. When shopping for a replacement battery, here are some factors to consider:
Capacity: The higher the Wh (Watt-hour) rating of a battery, the longer it can last on a single charge. The original A1398 battery has a capacity of 95Wh, but you may find aftermarket batteries with different capacities, ranging from 85Wh to 100Wh. Keep in mind that higher-capacity batteries may be heavier or bulkier than the original battery, and may also require longer charging times or have shorter lifespan due to internal stress.
Compatibility: Not all A1398 batteries are the same, even if they have the same capacity or look alike. You should check the specifications and compatibility of a battery before buying it, to ensure that it can work with your MacBook Pro and its operating system. Some batteries may only support certain versions of macOS or firmware, or may require a specific type of connector or installation kit.
Quality: The quality of a battery can affect its safety, performance, and longevity. Poor quality batteries may have lower-grade cells, weaker casing, or defective circuitry that can lead to overheating, swelling, or even explosion. To minimize the risk of getting a substandard battery, you should buy from a reputable seller that provides warranty, customer support, and certification from recognized safety organizations such as UL, FCC, or CE.
Price: The price of a replacement battery can vary greatly depending on the brand, capacity, quality, and seller. While you may be tempted to buy the cheapest battery you can find, keep in mind that quality and safety should always come first. A battery that is too cheap may be too good to be true, and may end up costing you more in the long run if it fails prematurely or damages your MacBook Pro. On the other hand, a battery that is much more expensive than the average may not necessarily be a better option, unless it offers exceptional features or benefits.
Based on these factors, here are some of the recommended A1398 replacement batteries that you can consider:
- NewerTech NuPower: This brand offers a range of high-capacity batteries for A1398 and other MacBook Pro models, with up to 103Wh capacity and up to 87% more capacity than the original battery. The batteries are made with premium cells and have a tough outer casing that can withstand impact and heat. They come with a 1-year warranty and a user-installation kit that includes a screwdriver and adhesive strips.
- OWC Mercury: This brand offers a selection of A1398 batteries with capacities ranging from 74Wh to 99Wh, depending on the model year and configuration of your MacBook Pro. The batteries are tested to meet or exceed Apple's standards and have a 1-year warranty. They come with a full installation kit that includes a tri-wing screwdriver, adhesive strips, and a pry tool.
- Anker PowerCore: This brand offers a portable external battery pack that can provide up to 26800mAh capacity, which is equivalent to around 98Wh. The battery pack has two USB ports and can charge multiple devices simultaneously, including smartphones, tablets, cameras, and even some laptops. It has built-in safety features such as surge protection, short circuit prevention, and temperature control. The battery pack comes with an 18-month warranty and a micro USB cable.
- GreenTech LGG059: This brand offers a budget-friendly A1398 battery with 99Wh capacity and UL certification. The battery uses high-quality cells and has a smart chip that regulates voltage and current to prevent overcharging or discharging. It comes with a 1-year warranty and a user-friendly installation guide.
These are just some of the options you can consider when looking for a replacement battery for your A1398 MacBook Pro. Remember to read reviews, compare prices, and choose wisely based on your needs and preferences. Having a reliable and safe battery can enhance your productivity and mobility, while giving you peace of mind.