Can I Charge a MacBook 12 Using a Phone Charger?

Understanding Your MacBook 12

When it comes to charging your MacBook 12 (a 2020 model with the M1 chip), many issues arise regarding compatibility with phone chargers. Contrary to what some might believe, the 2020 MacBook Air M1 model requires only 30 watts, which is the maximum power most phone chargers can provide via a USB-C port. However, this does not mean that a USB-A port from a phone charger can charge the MacBook 12 effectively.

How Does the USB-A Connector Fit?

The USB-A connector on a phone charger, while it can provide power to a phone, is not designed to fit into a MacBook's charging port. Additionally, the power output is insufficient to charge the MacBook 12, even if it were compatible physically.

Quick Charging Protocols and Compatibility

To understand the limitations of using a phone charger, it’s essential to delve into the charging protocols. Phone manufacturers often add proprietary fast charging protocols to their devices. One of the most popular is QC (Quick Charge) by Qualcomm, which uses D and D- lines to communicate with the device and the charger. A QC4 capable charger, which supports up to 100 watts, theoretically could provide enough power to charge the MacBook 12.

However, Apple has chosen not to support QC protocols in its devices. Instead, Apple uses the Power Delivery (PD) protocol, which is part of the USB standard. PD allows devices to communicate with chargers using the CC (Configuration Channel) wire on a USB-C port. There is also a way to support PD through a USB-A port, but it is exceedingly rare to find chargers that do this. Unless you happen to have one of these rare USB-A chargers that support PD, your MacBook 12 will only see a 5V 500mA output via the USB-A port, which is insufficient to charge it.

Understanding Power Output from Phone Chargers

Even if a charger supports QC or PD, it does not guarantee that it can provide the maximum defined power. Qualcomm chargers, for example, typically only support 5V 3A. Most 45W QC chargers will support up to 9V, and the higher voltages (12V and 20V) are available only on high-power chargers. Most 65W chargers, for instance, will only support 5V and 9V. It’s crucial to read the output voltage specifications of your charger, which are usually written in small letters on the charger’s label. If no voltages are listed, the charger typically outputs only 5V.

Conclusion

In summary, while a phone charger with a USB-A port can provide power to a phone, it is unlikely to be sufficient to charge a MacBook 12 effectively. The limited power output and lack of support for relevant charging protocols like Qualcomm’s Quick Charge mean that your MacBook 12 will not be charged using a standard phone charger via a USB-A port. Investing in a dedicated MacBook charger that supports the appropriate wattage and protocols is the best solution for ensuring your device stays charged efficiently.