Can a Mobile Phone Charger Charge MacBook Pro?

To ensure compatibility with your MacBook, it is recommended to opt for a Power Delivery (PD) charger that can connect via USB-C. PD chargers offer the advantage of supporting up to 240W of power, although the most commonly available models cater to the standard power requirements of laptops, ranging from 30W to 100W.

For optimal performance, it is advisable to opt for a charger with PD version 3.0 or higher. PD 3.1, in particular, stands out as it can deliver a charge of 140-240W, which suits the fast-charging needs of a 16-inch MacBook Pro. It is important to note that while Thunderbolt/USB-C ports are rated at PD 3.0, only the MagSafe port is compatible with PD 3.1. Therefore, to efficiently fast-charge the 140W 16-inch MacBook Pro, Apple’s USB-C to MagSafe 3 Cable must be used rather than a standard USB-C cable. However, it is still possible to power the laptop using a USB-C or Thunderbolt cable, although the maximum power for those options is 100W.

The most crucial aspect to consider when selecting a laptop charger, disregarding safety concerns, is the power capacity it can deliver to your MacBook.

A laptop is engineered to consume a certain number of watts when operating at its maximum potential, such as when utilizing numerous applications or engaging in graphics and video-intensive tasks—not when simply browsing the internet. The laptop manufacturer takes this peak power level into account when determining the wattage of the accompanying charger. During idle periods or when performing basic tasks, the laptop will only draw a minimal amount of power from the charger.

Apple now offers silicon fast charging for their latest MacBook models. With the right charger and cable, you have the ability to charge your MacBook battery up to 50% in just 30 minutes. For the M2 MacBook Air, you can utilize a 65W or higher power adapter with either the MagSafe or a USB-C charging cable to enable fast charging. Our tests confirm the effectiveness of fast charging on the M2 MacBook Air.

For the 14-inch MacBook Pro, fast charging is achievable with a 96W or higher USB-C charger, along with either a USB-C to MagSafe 3 Cable or a USB-C charge cable.

However, the 16-inch MacBook Pro can only be fast-charged using a 140W USB-C Power Adapter in combination with the USB-C to MagSafe 3 Cable. This limitation exists because the Thunderbolt ports on the 16-inch MacBook Pro are still of the 100W PD 3.0 standard. There is no harm in using a higher-wattage power adapter to charge a laptop. It will not make the charging process faster, unless specific fast-charge rules are followed.

Prior to the introduction of the M2 MacBook Air in July 2022, all Apple MacBook laptop chargers were equipped with only one port. While this design choice was logical, the need for multiple ports became increasingly evident due to the prevalence of multiple devices requiring charging.
When you are utilizing your MacBook at maximum capacity, your charger may not have sufficient excess power to charge other devices unless you opt for a charger with higher wattage. This allows the surplus power to be directed towards simultaneously charging your iPhone or AirPods while powering your laptop.

Apple has now unveiled the 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter, providing MacBook Air users with a charger featuring two ports. However, it is important to note that due to the 35W total power output, charging speed will be significantly slower compared to using the charger individually.

Apple’s power adapters, which use silicon-based technology, are generally larger in size compared to third-party chargers made with GaN (Gallium nitride) technology. GaN, known for generating less heat, allows for components to be placed closer together. This significant advantage results in smaller GaN chargers being manufactured.

Presently, some GaN chargers are even compact enough to fit conveniently into your pocket. However, it’s important to note that the USB-C cable still needs to be organized somehow. Although Apple has entered the GaN market later than others, its newer GaN power adapters are undeniably smaller than their older counterparts.

Typically, U.K. models of GaN chargers are wider than the U.S. Type A and B plug variants due to their ultra-safe and robust three-pin Type G plug design. While fewer U.K. chargers feature folding plug pins, a feature commonly found in most U.S. wall chargers, it is increasingly becoming a standard aspect in chargers not manufactured by Apple.

To charge your MacBook, you have two options for connecting the charger: a USB-C to USB-C charging cable or a USB-C to MagSafe cable. If your Mac is equipped with a MagSafe 3 port (specifically, the MacBook Air introduced in 2022 and the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro introduced in 2021), you can opt for Apple’s USB-C to MagSafe 3 Cable.

This cable supports PD 3.1 and can provide a maximum power of 240W. Not only does it enable MacBook fast-charging on the 16-inch model, but it also frees up one of the Thunderbolt ports. Additionally, it offers protection against accidental cable pulls. However, it should be noted that this cable is relatively expensive. Alternatively, you can consider purchasing a quality USB-C cable, which is more cost-effective. Apple also offers USB-C to USB-C charging cables with a maximum power of 100W. However, if you are willing to explore other options, you can find cheaper, yet reliable, USB-C charging cables from brands like APPHONE.

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The most common types are wall chargers that directly connect to the power socket. Alternatively, you may want to consider a desktop charger, which sets itself apart from the wall chargers by utilizing a longer plugged cable for power connection, offering enhanced flexibility. While this option provides a neater and more versatile solution for your desk, it may not be as easily portable during travel, unlike the wall chargers that only require a charger-to-device cable. Furthermore, there is another alternative available—a power strip or extender.