---
id: backups.can-i-make-backups-only-run-when-plugged-in
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/backups/can-i-make-backups-only-run-when-plugged-in
category: "Backups & restore points"
subcategory: "When backups run"
question: "Can I make backups run only when my MacBook is plugged in?"
alt_questions:
  - "backup only on power"
  - "don't back up on battery"
  - "Waiting for power backup"
  - "backup drains battery MacBook"
  - "The Mac is plugged in condition"
short_answer: "Yes. In the set's Change… popover, turn on The Mac is plugged in under Only when. Automatic runs then wait for power, the card says why, and Back up now still works any time."
tags: ["battery", "power", "conditions"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/backups/can-i-stop-backups-using-my-phone-hotspot", "https://storagestudio.us/faq/backups/can-i-keep-backups-out-of-my-working-hours"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# Can I make backups run only when my MacBook is plugged in?

Yes. Open the set's **Change…** popover and, under **Only when**, turn on **The Mac is plugged in**. Automatic and scheduled runs then wait until you connect power.

While waiting, the card explains itself: *"Waiting for power — you asked for backups to run only when plugged in."* You can still start one yourself at any time with **Back up now**; conditions only hold the automatic runs.