Choosing the right MacBook charger: why more expensive isn't always better
Your MacBook charger is broken. USB-C or MagSafe? 30, 45, 61, or 87 watts? Too heavy, and you're paying unnecessarily high prices. Too light, and your laptop will charge slowly or not at all. The specifications on Apple's website aren't very helpful either – technical jargon without clear advice.
But here's what almost no one tells you: that expensive original Apple charger for €89 is often completely unnecessary. In fact, with the right knowledge, you can choose a charger that fits perfectly and will last for years in just two minutes. Because while everyone else is fixated on wattages and connectors, it really comes down to three simple checks you can do yourself. Just like choosing the right accessories or AirPods – if you know what to look for, it suddenly becomes a lot easier.
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The two main types: USB-C or MagSafe
The first step in choosing a charger is determining the connection type. Apple has used two main types over the years. MacBooks from 2015 onwards use USB-C, while older models from 2012 onwards have a MagSafe 2 connection. Even older models from 2008-2011 use the original MagSafe 1.
The difference lies primarily in the physical connection. MagSafe is magnetic and detaches with a yank on the cable – handy to prevent tripping. USB-C, on the other hand, is fixed and offers more options for data transfer and connecting external devices. So, check which port your laptop has before ordering a charger.
Wattage: More isn't always better
The wattage determines how quickly your MacBook charges. A charger that's too low will work slowly or not at all during heavy use. A more powerful charger isn't harmful—the laptop only draws what it needs—but you'll end up paying unnecessarily high prices.
The rule of thumb: choose the recommended wattage or one notch higher. A MacBook Air typically requires 30 or 45 watts, while a 16-inch MacBook Pro requires 96 watts. The exact wattage is listed on your original adapter or in your Mac's system information.
Overview per MacBook model
For the 12-inch MacBook (2015-2017), a 30-watt USB-C charger is sufficient. This compact model requires little power.
The MacBook Air varies by generation:
- 2008-2011: 45-watt MagSafe 1
- 2012-2017: 45-watt MagSafe 2
- 2018-present: 30-watt USB-C (M1/M2 models can also use 35 watts)
13-inch MacBook Pro models:
- 2012-2015 Retina: 60-watt MagSafe 2
- 2016-present without Touch Bar: 61-watt USB-C
- 2016-present with Touch Bar/M1/M2: 61-watt USB-C (67 watts for faster charging)
15-inch MacBook Pro :
- 2012-2015 Retina: 85-watt MagSafe 2
- 2016-2019: 87-watt USB-C
The 16-inch MacBook Pro (2019-present) requires 96-watt USB-C, although the latest M1/M2 Pro models can also use 140 watts for super-fast charging.
Practical tips for daily use
Do you use your laptop primarily at home? Consider an extra charger for the office or in your backpack. This will prevent you from constantly plugging and unplugging cables. Be careful, though: cheap, counterfeit chargers can pose a fire hazard. Therefore, choose certified alternatives with the appropriate safety standards.
The cable itself also deserves attention. Wrap it loosely without any sharp bends. The weak spot is often at the connection point—that's where the internal wires break first. A cable organizer or Velcro strap helps with neat storage.
Battery maintenance for longer life
A good charger alone isn't enough. The battery itself also needs maintenance. Modern MacBooks have lithium-ion batteries that perform best between 20% and 80% charge. Fully discharging the battery damages the cells, as does constantly keeping it at 100%.
macOS has built-in battery optimization that automatically limits charging to 80% during daily use in the same location. You can find this feature under System Preferences > Battery. For frequent travelers, it's best to disable this option to maximize battery life.
Temperature also plays a role. Extreme heat or cold significantly shortens the lifespan. Therefore, don't charge your MacBook in direct sunlight or freezing temperatures. The ideal ambient temperature is between 10 and 35 degrees Celsius.
When to replace?
A charger lasts for years with normal use. Signs that a replacement is needed: the adapter gets extremely hot, the cable shows cracks, or the laptop charges irregularly. If in doubt, check the voltage with a multimeter or consult a specialist.
It's worth replacing your charger preventatively if you travel a lot. A broken charger while traveling is especially frustrating. Keep the old one as a spare—handy for emergencies.
Conclusion: choosing wisely saves money and worries
Choosing the right MacBook charger is actually quite simple: check whether you need USB-C or MagSafe, check the wattage for your model, and choose a certified charger . That expensive original Apple adapter for €89? Often unnecessary – a high-quality alternative works just as well.
Combine your new charger with proper battery maintenance and you'll be good for years to come. Just like choosing a refurbished MacBook, it's all about the right knowledge, not the most expensive product.
