With the many iPhone and MacBook models using type C ports, it is common for consumers to question if they can indeed use a USB C adapter to charge them.
However, is it advisable to do so? Will you be able to charge these gadgets effectively using any USB type C adapter?
That is what we will answer today.
Can you charge iPhone or MacBook with any USB C Adapter?
Technically, you can charge your MacBook or iPhone using any type C adapter if it uses a USB type C port.
However, it is good to stick to the cable or adapter that Apple provides you with these gadgets or at least go with one that has a long-standing brand such as Anker, LDNIO or Baseus. You can get these branded USB-C Adapters and other related electronic accessories in Sri Lanka at bestbargains.lk.
Want to know what Apple says about the same? We will let you know that but before that, let us understand what a USB C charger is.
What is a USB-C charger?
USB C charger is emerging as a popular alternative for charging various devices and transferring data. Since it offers better speed and efficiency while transmitting data and charging devices, it is being widely used.
USB Implementers Forum, which constitutes a group of companies, is behind the development of the USB C charger. It is the same group of companies that have developed USB technology over the last few years.
The popularity of type C connectivity is such that other manufacturers and apple have adapted it in many modern versions of the iPhone and MacBook.
Now that you know what a USB C charger is, it is time to look at apple’s opinion regarding using any USB C adapter for charging your iPhone or Mac.
Apple’s opinion on Non-Apple USB-C chargers:
According to Apple, if your MacBook or iPhone uses type C port for charging, you can use any USB type C power adapter. However, it adds that you can get the most optimum experience only when you use a cable and adapter that comes with these gadgets.
While this can be interpreted in many ways, it indicates that you can use any USB C adapter in an emergency. However, in the long run, you should stick to the cables and adapter provided by Apple.
Does it make a difference? (Apple vs Non-Apple)
It does not make a lot of difference when it comes to operational use. However, in regular use, it can make a difference.
The adapter designed by Apple is designed specifically for that gadget. It has many inbuilt protections as well to ensure that your gadget is completely safe while using it.
This is not to say that other manufacturers of type C adapters might not have these inbuilt protections. Many of them do. However, if you buy one in the budget category, it would be devoid of those protection measures. In that case, your gadget is always at risk.
You will seldom face any voltage fluctuations or other such issues in the occasional use. That is why there will be no problem. Consistent use means that whenever there is an electrical problem, it will impact the battery of your gadgets rather than the adapter handling the same.
Another problem that you might face is that the technical specifications of the adapter you have might be different than what your iPhone or MacBook requires. It is essential to find out the right wattage for your iPhone or MacBook model.
The question is how to do so?
We will answer that below.
How to find the right wattage charger for your Apple device?
The good news is that whether you want to know the wattage of your iPhone charger or your MacBook charger, all you need to do is look at the information printed on the adapter of the charger itself.
On the charger, you will find the voltage rating and the ampere rating. To calculate the wattage, you have to multiply both.
For example, if 9 volts at 2 amps is mentioned, the wattage becomes 18W.
That way, it is easy to find the right wattage for your iPhone or MacBook type C adapter.
A good cable is essential
As we highlighted above, the quality of the cable and adapter is pretty essential. This is what separates a substandard charger from a premium one.
The question is, what exactly constitutes a good charging cable?
We will share with you a few parameters which will help you choose such a cable.
What constitutes a good cable?
There are four signs to look out for when deciding if a cable is good enough for charging your iPhone or MacBook.
Certification by USB-IF:
USB-IF is the same authority that has developed USB technology over the years. That is why, if it has certified the charging cable or if its logo is present on the charging cable or adapter, it indicates that it conforms to their standards. It is entirely safe to charge your iPhone or MacBook using such a cable.
Wattage:
If the wattage rating of the cable is lower than what your iPhone and MacBook require, both these gadgets will charge slowly. In some cases, if the difference is huge, your gadget might not charge at all.
On the other hand, higher wattage is not good enough as well. It will lead to excessive power being supplied to your gadget. In the long run, its use can damage the battery of your gadget. Even though Apple has protection for the same, it is better to use a cable with an equivalent wattage rating.
Length:
The length of the cable should be such that it is easy to connect to the electrical socket and the gadget itself. Otherwise, the cable might be loose, and you might not experience appropriate charging for your gadget.
Outer jacket:
Over a period of time, the cable can start fraying. In that case, it will not supply proper power to your gadget. It will become susceptible to radio interference as well. It will undoubtedly make it difficult for you to charge your iPhone or MacBook using such a cable.
Instead of suffering from these problems, a much better idea is to choose a cable with a heavy jacket. That way, fraying won’t be an issue, and you will get the optimum charging experience.
Conclusion
So, technically, yes, you can charge iPhone or MacBook with any USB C adapter. However, for the best charging experience, you should always use the adapter provided by Apple along with your gadget. Then, you won’t have to worry about the wattage mismatch, slow charging, or any other such issues.
