How to Change Power Mode in Ubuntu Linux
Power modes in Ubuntu Linux let you control how fast your computer runs and how long your battery lasts. Ubuntu includes 3 main built-in power profiles to pick from: Balanced, Power Saver, and Performance.
Balanced is the default mode for everyday use. Power Saver stretches out your battery life by lowering the computer speed, while Performance cranks up the speed for heavy tasks like video editing or gaming.
Open System Settings, click on Power, and then select your desired Power Mode from the dropdown menu. You can choose between Balanced, Power Saver, or Performance profiles to optimize for battery life or speed.
How to choose power mode in Ubuntu Linux
Switching power modes helps either save battery life or squeeze maximum performance from the computer. Ubuntu Linux centralizes most settings in a single place: the System Settings panel.
Here’s how to do that in Ubuntu Linux.
Access the System Settings panel by typing Settings into the Activities overview, or by clicking the system menu in the top-right corner of the desktop and selecting Settings.
Open the Activities overview and start typing Settings to reach System Settings.

Alternatively, click on the System menu at the top-right corner of the desktop's top bar.
Select Settings from the System menu.

Click on the Power tile inside the Settings app.

Choose a power mode or profile under Power Mode on the System Settings > Power settings panel:
- Balanced: Standard performance and power usage. This is the default setting.
- Power Saver: Reduced performance and power usage. This setting maximizes battery life. It may enable some power-saving options and prevent them from being switched off.
- Performance: High performance and power usage. This mode will only be visible if it is supported by your computer. It will be selectable if your computer is running on AC power. If your device supports lap detection, you will not be able to select this option if the device is running on someone's lap.

Close the Settings app once finished.
Conclusion:
- Changing the power mode in Ubuntu Linux is a straightforward process that allows users to optimize performance and power usage according to their needs.
- Following the steps outlined in this article, users can select from different power modes such as Balanced, Power Saver, and Performance, ensuring flexibility based on their specific requirements.
- Accessing the System Settings panel and navigating to the Power settings allows users to seamlessly modify the power mode for their Ubuntu Linux system.
- Whether prioritizing battery life, performance, or a balance between the two, Ubuntu Linux empowers users with the tools to customize their power usage effortlessly.
What does Ubuntu power mode do?
Operating speeds and background services adjust to match the selected profile. "Power Saver" mode lowers the CPU operating speed (downclocks) and adjusts background services to reduce power draw.
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Richard
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Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
[…] systems it is possible to set a power mode to allow you to use the least amount of power you need. In Ubuntu this is done from the Power settings, but in Debian running XFCE the Power Manager does not give you this option. But that doesn’t […]
Anyone who dont have performance button enabled. You can also use that terminal command as a root.
powerprofilesctl set performance