Why it’s best to avoid charging your phone to 100% (and what to do instead to preserve battery life)

Who hasn’t felt that little bit of relief seeing their phone proudly display 100% before starting the day? We often think it’s the best way to ensure comfortable battery life… and yet, the reality is more nuanced. Behind this everyday gesture lies a subtle mechanism that we rarely understand. What if your phone charging method isn’t actually the gentlest on its battery?

Why the myth of 100% still persists

For many, fully charging the battery seems logical: the fuller it is, the longer it lasts, right? In reality, modern batteries work differently. They don’t react well to extremes, a bit like us when we push ourselves too hard. When the charge level consistently reaches 100%, the battery reaches a zone of internal stress that accelerates its natural aging. Nothing dramatic immediately, but over time, it becomes noticeable.

The ideal charging area for a phone that lasts

Good news: there’s a charging range that’s truly kind to your phone. Experts recommend keeping your battery between 20% and 80%, a much gentler range for the internal components. It’s a bit like choosing a cruising speed instead of constantly accelerating: smoother, more stable, and more sustainable.
And don’t worry, you don’t need to monitor your phone minute by minute. Many models already offer optimized charging, which automatically adjusts the battery level overnight or during extended periods of charging. 

Should we stop charging our phones at night?

Let’s be honest: leaving your phone to charge while you sleep is incredibly convenient. But once it reaches 100%, the device maintains that level by performing small, successive micro-charges. As a result, the battery remains at maximum charge for hours. Again, nothing urgent, but repeating this daily ritual slowly reduces battery life.
A good compromise? Enable optimized charging and avoid placing your phone under a pillow or near a heat source.

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