It depends on which 2010 model you have, since the line covers three screen sizes with 18 distinct part numbers. The 13 inch A1278 uses the A1322 family (about 63.5 Wh), the 15 inch A1286 uses the A1321 family (about 77.5 Wh), and the 17 inch A1297 uses the A1383 family (about 95 Wh). All are lithium-ion at 10.8 to 11.26 V. Check the model identifier on the bottom casing (for example A1286) to confirm the right one. Prices run $64.99 to $69.99.

Find the model identifier printed on the bottom casing, which reads A1278 (13 inch), A1286 (15 inch), or A1297 (17 inch). That identifier tells you the battery family: A1322 for the 13 inch, A1321 for the 15 inch, and A1383 for the 17 inch. From there you can match a specific part number such as 020-6380-A or 661-5229. Confirming the size and identifier is the surest way to avoid ordering a battery built for a different year.

Replacement batteries for this line run $64.99 to $69.99. The exact price within that range depends on which sub-series you have and the capacity it carries, from about 55 Wh up to 95 Wh on the 17 inch A1297. There are 18 distinct part numbers across roughly 77 compatible models, so pricing tracks with the specific battery your model needs rather than a single flat figure.

No, they are not interchangeable across screen sizes. The 13 inch A1278 takes the A1322 family (about 63.5 Wh), the 15 inch A1286 takes the A1321 family (about 77.5 Wh), and the 17 inch A1297 takes the A1383 family (about 95 Wh). Voltages also differ slightly within the 10.8 to 11.26 V range. Even between similar pro models the batteries differ, which is why matching your exact model identifier is essential before ordering.

Capacity and part family are the main differences. The 13 inch A1278 uses the A1322 family at about 63.5 Wh, the 15 inch A1286 uses the A1321 family at about 77.5 Wh, and the 17 inch A1297 uses the A1383 family at about 95 Wh. All are lithium-ion at 10.8 to 11.26 V. The bigger machines carry more cells and higher capacity to feed the i5/i7 processors and dedicated graphics, while the 13 inch is tuned for long runtime in a lighter chassis.

Look on the battery label itself once the bottom case is off, where you will see numbers like 020-6380-A, A1322557, or 661-5229. You can also use the model identifier on the bottom casing (A1278, A1286, or A1297) to narrow down the correct family before opening the machine. Common part numbers for this line include 020-5071-B, MA348LL/A, and MC-MBOOK15. Matching the printed part number to your model is the most reliable approach.

Yes. All 2010 MacBook Pro batteries are internal but not glued in, so they come out with a small Phillips head or tri-wing screwdriver. Remove the bottom case screws, disconnect the battery connector, unscrew the battery, and seat the replacement. This applies to the A1278, A1286, and A1297 alike. Just confirm your model identifier first, since the 15 inch A1286 (A1321 family) is easily confused with the 2011 model that uses A1382.

Watch for sharply reduced runtime, sudden shutdowns even when the meter shows charge left, a battery that no longer holds a charge, or a cycle count well past its useful life. Given these are lithium-ion packs from 2010, capacity loss is common, and a 77.5 Wh A1321 or 95 Wh A1383 that now lasts a fraction of its original runtime is a clear sign. If your Mac reports a service status for the battery, plan on a replacement in the $64.99 to $69.99 range.