The battery location depends on your HP model, but most are under the keyboard or in a removable panel on the bottom

HP makes dozens of laptop models, and the battery sits in different places depending on which one you own. The most common locations are underneath the keyboard (you have to remove the keyboard to access it), inside a panel on the bottom of the laptop that you can open with a screwdriver, or in a slot on the side or back. The easiest way to find yours is to check your specific model number and look at the manual or HP's support website for that model.

Your model number is printed on a sticker on the bottom of the laptop, usually near the hinge or in a corner. It looks like "HP Pavilion 15-ef1234ca" or "HP Envy x360 13-ay0012dx". Once you have that number, you can search HP's support site directly, or search "[your model number] battery location" online to find diagrams and instructions.

Key Takeaways

  • Find your HP model number on the sticker on the bottom of the laptop, then search that model on HP's support website for battery location and removal steps.
  • Most HP laptops have the battery either under the keyboard, in a removable bottom panel, or in a side slot — the location varies by model year and product line.
  • Removing a battery usually requires a screwdriver and takes 5 to 15 minutes, but some newer models have batteries that are glued in and require professional removal.
  • Before you open the laptop, shut it down completely, unplug the power cable, and wait a few minutes so the battery has time to cool.

Battery under the keyboard

On many HP Pavilion, Envy, and older ProBook models, the battery sits directly under the keyboard. To reach it, you have to remove the keyboard first. This usually means unscrewing a few screws on the underside of the laptop, then carefully lifting the keyboard up and away from the case — it is connected to the motherboard with a ribbon cable that you have to disconnect.

Once the keyboard is out of the way, the battery is visible and held in place with one or two screws or a clip. Disconnect the power cable from the battery (a small connector that plugs into the motherboard) before you remove the screws. This step is important because it prevents electrical damage if you accidentally touch the wrong part while the battery is still connected.

HP's support pages for your specific model will show you exactly which screws to remove and how to disconnect the ribbon cable without breaking it. If you are not comfortable opening your laptop, a technician can do this in 15 to 30 minutes.

Battery in a removable bottom panel

Some HP models — particularly newer Pavilion and Envy laptops — have a battery that sits in a panel on the bottom of the case. You can open this panel without removing the keyboard. The panel is usually held on with four to eight screws that you can see when you flip the laptop over.

Unscrew the panel and set it aside. The battery will be visible inside, held in place with a clip or one or two screws. Disconnect the power cable from the battery first, then remove the screws or release the clip. The battery should slide out easily once it is no longer fastened.

This type of battery is the easiest to remove yourself because you do not have to disassemble the keyboard or navigate ribbon cables. The whole job usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

Battery in a side or rear slot

Some HP ultrabooks and compact models have a battery that slides into a slot on the side or back of the laptop. These are less common but easier to access than batteries under the keyboard. The battery usually has a small lever or tab that you pull to release it, and it slides straight out without any screws.

Check the sides and back of your laptop for a slot or a small lever. If you see one, your battery may be this type. Your model's manual will confirm whether this is the case.

Newer HP laptops with glued-in batteries

Many newer HP models, especially thin ultrabooks and premium Envy or Spectre models, have batteries that are glued directly to the case. These batteries are not designed to be removed by the user. Removing one requires heating the adhesive, carefully prying the battery out, and then re-gluing it back in — a job that risks damaging the laptop if you do not have the right tools and experience.

If your laptop has a glued-in battery and you need to replace it, contact HP support or take the laptop to an authorized service center. They have the equipment to do this safely. Do not attempt to pry out a glued battery yourself.

How to find your model number and manual

Your HP model number is on a sticker on the bottom of the laptop. It usually starts with "HP" followed by the product line (Pavilion, Envy, ProBook, Spectre, etc.) and then a series of numbers and letters. Write down the entire model number.

Go to hp.com/support, enter your model number in the search box, and look for the "Manuals" or "Documentation" section. read the user manual or service manual for your model. The manual will have a diagram showing exactly where the battery is and how to remove it. If you cannot find the manual on HP's site, search "[model number] manual PDF" online — many manuals are also hosted on other sites.

Safety steps before you open your laptop

Before you remove the battery, shut down the laptop completely. Do not put it to sleep — shut it all the way down. Unplug the power cable from the wall and from the laptop. Wait two to three minutes so the battery has time to discharge any remaining charge and cool down.

If you are working in a carpeted room, wear an anti-static wrist strap connected to a metal part of the laptop case. This prevents static electricity from damaging the motherboard. If you do not have a wrist strap, touch a metal part of the case frequently while you work to discharge any static buildup.

Keep track of all the screws you remove and put them in a small container so you do not lose them. Take a photo of the inside of the laptop before you start, so you have a reference if you forget how something was arranged.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my HP battery is removable or glued in?

The easiest way is to check your model number on HP's support site — the manual will say whether the battery is user-removable. If you cannot find the manual, look at the bottom of your laptop. If you see a panel with visible screws, the battery is likely removable. If the bottom is smooth with no obvious panel, the battery is probably glued in.

Can I remove the battery while the laptop is on?

No. Always shut the laptop down completely and unplug it before you remove the battery. Removing the battery while the laptop is powered on or in sleep mode can cause data loss or damage the motherboard.

What should I do if I cannot find the battery after opening the panel?

The battery may be under the keyboard, or your model may have a glued-in battery that is not visible from the bottom. Check your model's manual to confirm the location. If the manual says the battery is removable but you still cannot find it, contact HP support with your model number — they can direct you to the correct location.

Is it safe to remove the battery myself?

Yes, if your model has a removable battery and you follow the steps in your manual. Take your time, use the right screwdriver size, and disconnect the power cable before removing screws. If you are uncomfortable opening the laptop, a technician can remove it safely in under an hour.

What do I do with the old battery after I remove it?

Lithium batteries cannot go in the trash. Take the old battery to an electronics recycling center, a Best Buy, or a battery retailer — most accept old laptop batteries for free. Some HP service centers also take old batteries when you bring in a new one.