Your MacBook Pro 15-inch Retina from 2013 to 2015 still has plenty of life left, but the original battery has long since lost its hold. Swapping in an A1398 replacement battery is the most cost-effective way to revive that machine, and the market has filled with options aimed at DIYers comfortable opening their laptop. The catch is that every option claims compatibility, and not every cell delivers the runtime or build quality the originals once offered.
This guide sorts through ten current aftermarket options for the A1398 platform, covering both the A1494 and A1618 part numbers, plus a few sister picks for nearby MacBook models that share the same form factor or repair workflow. Each entry focuses on genuine compatibility, capacity, voltage, and the practical ownership considerations that separate a smart buy from a frustrating one.
The Main Contenders
PlxMxr A1398 Battery Replacement MacBook Pro 15″ Retina (Mid 2015)
ASUNCELL A1398 Laptop Battery Replacement (99.5Wh)
pengguo A1398 Replacement Battery A1494 A1618 (8440mAh)
NDWQGFS A1819 A1706 Battery MacBook Pro 13″ Touch Bar
NDWQGFS A1398 A1618 Battery MacBook Pro 15″ Retina (99.5Wh)
pengguo Battery A1713 A2171 MacBook Pro 13″ (5100mAh)
pengguo Battery MacBook Pro 15″ A1990 A1953 (7400mAh)
ASMARK Replacement Battery MacBook Pro A1398 Retina 15″
NDWQGFS A1582 A1502 Battery MacBook Pro 13″ Retina (Repair Kit)
SeaPlant Replacement Battery MacBook Pro A1398 15″ (98Wh)
Taking A Closer Look At The Options
The PlxMxr A1398 Battery Replacement is built specifically for owners of the Mid 2015 MacBook Pro 15-inch Retina, covering the A1494 and A1618 part numbers that define this generation. For anyone whose original battery has finally given up the ghost after a decade of daily use, this pick offers a focused path back to unplugged productivity.
What’s nice is that the manufacturer kept the scope tight, so the listing avoids the cross-year confusion you sometimes see in this category. For most owners of that specific Mid 2015 build, installation tends to go smoothly, with a connector footprint that matches the original. If your laptop is the slightly older Late 2013 or Mid 2014 A1398, you may need to look at a broader fit pick instead.
Where It Excels
- Targeted compatibility with the Mid 2015 A1398 reduces the risk of ordering the wrong cell.
- Lithium-polymer chemistry matches Apple’s original, which helps macOS recognise the new pack without complaint.
- Reasonable choice for owners keeping their 2015 MacBook as a daily driver or travel laptop.
- Plug-and-play connector design (the cable that links the battery to the logic board) suits standard DIY swaps.
Worth Noting
- Capacity and cycle rating aren’t published in the available listing details, so direct comparisons are harder.
- Not the right pick for Mid 2012 or Early 2013 A1398 owners.
- You’ll still want a quality Pentalobe driver (a five-pointed screwdriver for Apple’s proprietary case screws) and a plastic spudger (a non-marring pry tool) on hand, which aren’t included.
Feature Snapshot
The Right Fit
Best suited to Mid 2015 MacBook Pro 15-inch Retina owners who want a model-specific replacement rather than a generic fit.
Reach For A Different Pick When
The ASUNCELL A1398 Laptop Battery Replacement is a better match for owners of Late 2013, Mid 2014, or Early 2015 A1398 machines who need confirmed high-capacity specs.
The ASUNCELL A1398 Laptop Battery Replacement targets the sweet spot for most 2013-to-2015 MacBook Pro 15-inch Retina owners, with explicit coverage of EMC 2745, 2881, 2909, and 2910 variants. That specificity matters, since the A1398 generation shipped across enough internal revisions that one listing can rarely cover every chassis.
Capacity lands at 8755mAh (milliamp hours, a measure of how much charge the cell stores) and 99.5Wh (watt hours, a measure of total energy), running on an 11.36V platform, which mirrors Apple’s original specification. If your laptop cycles through heavy creative work and you remember the original lasting most of a workday, this number is what you’re looking for.
Real Benefits
- 8755mAh/99.5Wh capacity lines up with the original A1494/A1618 spec for dependable runtime.
- Explicit EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility identifier, Apple’s internal hardware revision code) coverage helps shoppers confirm fit before ordering.
- Rated for around 500 recharge cycles, which translates to several years of typical daily use.
- Useful 11.36V voltage means the power management chip treats it as a familiar pack.
Trade Offs
- Not compatible with Mid 2012 or Early 2013 A1398 units, so older shells need a different option.
- Requires careful model verification via “About This Mac” before purchase, or risk a wasted order.
- Some owners commonly report needing a couple of full charge-discharge cycles before macOS shows accurate battery health.
Quick Facts
Made For
Late 2013 through Mid 2015 MacBook Pro 15-inch Retina owners who want a confirmed, high-capacity cell that matches the original Apple specs.
Skip It When
The PlxMxr A1398 Battery Replacement is a tighter, model-specific choice if you only own the Mid 2015 variant and don’t need broader EMC coverage.
The pengguo A1398 Replacement Battery targets the Late 2013, Mid 2014, and Early 2015 versions of the A1398, which covers the bulk of the MacBook Pro 15-inch Retina population still in service. Built around a Li-Polymer (lithium-polymer, a flat, lightweight battery chemistry) cell using NCM (Nickel Cobalt Manganese, a common cathode chemistry) and LCO (Lithium Cobalt Oxide, a higher-energy-density cathode chemistry) cathode materials, it’s pitched at users who want long cycle life over outright maximum capacity.
Where this one distinguishes itself is the cycle rating, claiming more than 1500 recharge cycles before noticeable degradation. That figure is generous compared to the 500-cycle typical, and depending on your usage pattern, it may translate to years of additional use before you need another swap.
Positive Takeaways
- 1500+ claimed cycle rating, which outpaces most aftermarket A1398 batteries.
- Li-Polymer chemistry built from NCM/LCO cells aimed at longevity rather than peak capacity.
- Compatible with the major EMC numbers across 2013-2015 A1398 models.
- Reasonable 8440mAh/95.03Wh capacity at 11.26V.
Points To Keep In Mind
- Capacity sits below the 99.5Wh ceiling offered by some competitors, so absolute runtime is somewhat shorter.
- Mid 2015 owners should double-check EMC compatibility, since the title only lists through Early 2015.
- Real-world cycle numbers depend heavily on heat exposure and charging habits, so claims should be taken as upper bound.
Best Suited To
DIYers who plan to keep their A1398 MacBook running for several more years and value cycle longevity over peak runtime hours.
Consider Something Else When
The ASUNCELL A1398 Laptop Battery Replacement is the stronger call for those who want every watt-hour available and prefer a 99.5Wh spec.
The NDWQGFS A1819 A1706 Battery is a side-track entry in this roundup, built for the 13-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar from Late 2016 and Mid 2017 rather than the 15-inch A1398. It’s included because plenty of readers searching for an A1398 replacement also own a smaller Touch Bar machine, and the EMC numbers (3071 and 3163) often surface in the same repair conversations.
Capacity sits at 49.2Wh (4314mAh) at 11.41V, which is close to the original Apple spec for this generation. For commuters running a 13-inch Touch Bar as their daily machine, that’s enough to clear most of a workday on light tasks.
Noteworthy Benefits
- Specifically covers the Touch Bar 13-inch models that are otherwise harder to find.
- 49.2Wh capacity mirrors Apple’s original for predictable runtime expectations.
- 11.41V voltage aligns with the A1819/A1706 logic board design.
- Useful cross-compatibility across MLH12LL/A and similar Apple part numbers.
Possible Compromises
- Not compatible with A1398 15-inch models, despite sometimes appearing in similar search results.
- Touch Bar assembly is more delicate to remove than a non-Touch Bar chassis, so install time runs longer.
- Battery adhesive (the strong pull-tab strips under the pack) can resist removal on first attempts, requiring patient heat application.
Spec Overview
Who It Suits Best
Best for owners of a 13-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar from Late 2016 or Mid 2017 whose battery has started swelling or dying mid-day.
Not Your Match When
The PlxMxr A1398 Battery Replacement is the correct pick for anyone with a 15-inch A1398 MacBook Pro Retina from 2013 to 2015.
The NDWQGFS A1398 A1618 Laptop Battery Replacement casts a wide net across the 15-inch Retina lineup, claiming fit for Late 2013, Mid 2014, Mid 2015, and Early 2015 builds, with explicit EMC coverage spanning 2674, 2745, 2876, 2881, 2909, and 2910. For shoppers managing more than one of these laptops in a household or studio, that breadth is genuinely useful.
Capacity lands at 8755mAh (99.5Wh) on an 11.36V platform, matching the top spec seen elsewhere on this list. Compared to the pengguo option’s 8440mAh, you gain roughly an extra hour of light-use runtime, though real-world gains depend on screen brightness and workload.
Points In Its Favor
- Spans nearly every A1398 EMC variant from 2013-2015 in one listing.
- 99.5Wh capacity sits at the top of the aftermarket envelope for this platform.
- Smart protection circuitry claimed for overcharge, short-circuit, and temperature events.
- Strong choice for households or repair shops that handle multiple A1398 units.
Less Ideal Details
- Not compatible with Mid 2012 or Early 2013 A1398 models.
- Model-year verification via “About This Mac” is essential before purchase.
- Wide compatibility means packaging is generic, and you’ll need your own toolkit on hand.
Perfect Match For
Shops or households with several A1398 MacBooks across different model years who want a single, broad-coverage replacement in the parts drawer.
Swap It Out When
The ASMARK Replacement Battery for MacBook Pro A1398 is a tighter choice if you only own one MacBook and want a brand with a focused A1398 catalog.
The pengguo Battery A1713 A2171 is another 13-inch entry, bridging the A1708 Late 2016 and Mid 2017 machines to the A2159 (2019), A2289 (2020), and A2338 (2020) generations. It’s a sensible secondary recommendation for anyone who landed on this article while troubleshooting a smaller MacBook, since the same repair logic applies.
Capacity comes in two stated configurations: 5100mAh and 5800mAh, both running at 11.41V. The cycle rating is again advertised at 1500+, so the brand is leaning hard on longevity claims. For users running a recent 13-inch MacBook with multiple daily top-ups, the higher-capacity option is worth the small price difference.
Advantages To Know
- Covers a wide range of 13-inch MacBook Pro models from 2016 to 2020.
- Available in both 5100mAh and 5800mAh variants to match different originals.
- 1500+ claimed cycle rating aims at long-haul users.
- Upgrade chip claimed for six-fold protection including thermal and overcharge events.
A Few Limitations
- Not designed for A1398 15-inch laptops, despite showing up in some related searches.
- Adhesive strips on newer MacBooks can be stubborn, so a heat pad or hair dryer helps.
- Model-year verification is essential given the wide range of supported machines.
At A Glance
Who Should Grab It
Owners of 13-inch MacBook Pro A1708, A2159, A2289, or A2338 laptops whose daily cycles are wearing down the original battery.
A Better Fit Elsewhere
The PlxMxr A1398 Battery Replacement is the obvious choice if your laptop is the 15-inch A1398 platform, not a 13-inch machine.
The pengguo Battery for MacBook Pro 15″ A1990 covers the Mid 2018 and Mid 2019 generation, which is a step newer than the A1398 but a common repair target for the same reasons. Capacity is rated at 7400mAh (84.36Wh) on an 11.4V platform, with EMC 3215 and 3359 coverage.
What sets this listing apart is the inclusion of installation guidance and a 12-month after-sales service commitment. For someone tackling their first 15-inch MacBook teardown, those soft support touches can be the difference between a smooth swap and a frustrating afternoon.
Everyday Advantages
- Targets the Mid 2018-2019 A1990 generation, which has its own battery-wear cliff.
- 7400mAh capacity lines up with the original 15-inch Touch Bar spec.
- Manufacturer offers a 12-month after-sales service window.
- Professional installation guide claimed, which helps first-time swappers.
Where It Is Less Suited
- Not designed for A1398 15-inch 2013-2015 machines, so it’s a category sibling rather than a direct match.
- Touch Bar assembly on the A1990 makes the swap more involved than a non-Touch Bar chassis.
- Real-world capacity may land slightly below the stated 7400mAh in some units, depending on cell batch.
Feature Rundown
Built With In Mind
Owners of the Mid 2018 or Mid 2019 MacBook Pro 15-inch Touch Bar who want a branded replacement with after-sales backing.
Where Another Pick Suits Better
The SeaPlant Replacement Battery for MacBook Pro A1398 is the right call for owners of the older 15-inch A1398 2013-2015 generation.
The ASMARK Replacement Battery for MacBook Pro A1398 is a focused entry aimed squarely at the 15-inch Retina 2013-2015 lineup, covering A1494 and A1618 part numbers. It’s pitched at the user who values safety circuitry over headline capacity claims.
Capacity lands at 8700mAh and 98Wh, with a built-in smart protection chip that the brand highlights for overcharge, overheat, and short-circuit prevention. For shoppers nervous about installing an aftermarket cell into a beloved machine, that smart chip emphasis can be reassuring, though no battery is immune to failure.
Good Reasons To Consider
- Smart protection chip is a meaningful safety touch during charging cycles.
- 98Wh capacity sits near the top of the aftermarket envelope for A1398.
- Specific A1398 focus means fewer compatibility surprises than wide-list rivals.
- Works with the Mid 2015, Mid 2014, and Late 2013 builds most commonly repaired.
Small Caveats
- Brand presence is smaller than pengguo or ASUNCELL, so long-term support is less proven.
- You should still verify your EMC number before ordering.
- No installation kit included, so factor in the cost of a Pentalobe driver and spudger.
Whose Shelf It Belongs On
Best for cautious DIYers who prioritise built-in safety circuitry and want a focused, single-model replacement rather than a wide-coverage listing.
Consider Something Else When
The NDWQGFS A1398 A1618 Laptop Battery Replacement is a better pick for households managing multiple A1398 models who want one listing to cover them all.
The NDWQGFS A1582 A1502 Battery targets the 13-inch MacBook Pro Retina from Late 2013 through Mid 2015, covering A1493 and A1582 part numbers. The standout feature is the bundled repair tool kit, which addresses the most common barrier for first-time battery swappers: not owning the right drivers and spudgers.
Capacity is rated at 74.9Wh on an 11.42V platform, with the brand highlighting Grade A premium cells. For most owners of this older 13-inch model, this represents a comfortable step up from a dying original.
Key Advantages
- Repair tool kit included, removing the most common first-swap barrier.
- Grade A premium cells are claimed to resist swelling under normal use.
- 74.9Wh capacity suits the smaller 13-inch chassis without adding bulk.
- macOS battery health and cycle count reportedly display normally after install.
Factors To Consider
- Designed for 13-inch Retina, not the 15-inch A1398 that anchors this roundup.
- Repair kit quality can vary, so don’t expect professional-grade tools.
- Always recalibrate (fully charge then fully discharge once) after install for accurate readings.
Who Will Love This
First-time battery swappers with a 13-inch MacBook Pro Retina who don’t already own a MacBook toolkit and want everything in one box.
Look Elsewhere When
The ASUNCELL A1398 Laptop Battery Replacement is the correct fit for owners of the larger 15-inch A1398 platform, not the 13-inch model.
The SeaPlant Replacement Battery for MacBook Pro A1398 rounds out the roundup with a balanced offering for the 15-inch Retina 2013-2015 generation. Capacity is rated at 98Wh and 8700mAh on an 11.26V platform, fitting the Late 2013, Mid 2014, and Mid 2015 builds through the A1494 and A1618 part numbers.
The brand emphasises an advanced protection system covering overcharging, circuit overload, short circuits, and temperature events. For shoppers who want a straightforward, middle-of-the-road option without paying extra for the highest-capacity cells, this one covers the essentials without overselling.
Notable Upsides
- 98Wh capacity lands in the upper bracket for A1398 replacements.
- Advanced protection system covers the four main failure modes.
- Coverage spans the most commonly repaired A1398 model years.
- A reasonable choice for first-time installers who want a balanced pick.
Practical Considerations
- Voltage at 11.26V is slightly lower than the 11.36V seen on some competitors, which is within tolerance but worth noting.
- Not for Mid 2012 or Early 2013 A1398 builds.
- Brand recognition is moderate, so warranty handling depends on retailer support.
Right Fit For
General A1398 owners from 2013-2015 who want a balanced, no-fuss replacement with broad protection features.
Not Your Match When
The ASUNCELL A1398 Laptop Battery Replacement is the stronger pick for buyers prioritising the absolute highest 99.5Wh capacity and 500-cycle rating.
What Matters Most Before Choosing A1398 Replacement Battery
Confirming Your Exact MacBook Model
The single biggest mistake in this category is ordering the wrong battery for the wrong year. Apple uses the A1398 model identifier across the entire 15-inch Retina 2012-2015 run, but the internal EMC numbers (hardware revision codes) and battery part numbers (A1494 versus A1618) changed along the way. Click the Apple menu, choose “About This Mac,” and read the model year before anything else.
Capacity, Voltage, and Cycle Expectations
The original A1398 packs shipped at roughly 95-99.5Wh on 11.26-11.36V platforms. Aftermarket replacements cluster around these numbers, and going significantly lower often means shorter real-world runtime. Cycle ratings of 500 to 1500+ are common claims, but actual lifespan depends heavily on heat exposure and how often you drain the pack to zero.
Fit, Tools, and Installation Realities
A1398 battery swaps require a Pentalobe driver for the case screws, a Torx driver (a six-pointed star screwdriver) for the battery connector, and a plastic spudger for the adhesive strips. Most listings don’t include these, though a few bundle a basic kit. Plan on 30-45 minutes for a careful first install, and have isopropyl alcohol on hand for cleaning residual adhesive.
Reading the Compatibility Notes Carefully
Listings that claim “fits A1398” sometimes skip the Mid 2012 and Early 2013 builds, since those used different battery part numbers. If your MacBook dates to that earlier window, look for a listing that explicitly includes Mid 2012 or Early 2013 in its title rather than just “A1398.”
Key Considerations Across These Picks
Where Shoppers Go Wrong
The most common error is trusting the model identifier alone without checking EMC numbers or the printed battery part on the original cell. Mid 2012 and Early 2013 A1398 machines use a different connector than the 2013-2015 versions, and forcing the wrong battery in can damage the logic board. Always cross-reference the printed A1494 or A1618 label on your old pack before you order.
Why Top Tier Costs More
Higher-tier listings in this category tend to advertise larger cycle counts, smarter protection chips, or slightly higher watt-hour ratings than budget alternatives. The premium also covers tighter quality control during cell matching, which reduces the chance of receiving a pack that fails within the first few months. For users planning to keep their 2013-2015 MacBook running as a daily driver for several more years, that extra margin often pays back in avoided repeat swaps.