Is a 2018 iPad Pro Charger Compatible with a MacBook Pro 17-Inch?

The compatibility of a 2018 iPad Pro charger with a MacBook Pro 17-Inch can be a topic of debate among device enthusiasts. While the iPad Pro uses a USB-C charging system, the MacBook Pro does not use USB-C for charging, leading to some confusion about their interchangeability. In this article, we will explore the compatibility, charging rates, and the implications for users.

Understanding Charging Systems

First, let's understand the charging systems used by the iPad Pro and the MacBook Pro.

The iPad Pro Charging System

The 2018 iPad Pro uses a USB-C charger and cable. This means both the iPad Pro 11-inch and 12.9-inch models from 2018 can be charged using a USB-C charger. USB-C has become a standard in many devices, offering flexibility and faster charging speeds compared to older types like Lightning.

The MacBook Pro Charging System

On the other hand, the MacBook Pro typically uses Apple's proprietary MagSafe and MagSafe 2 charging systems, or the USB-A port for older models. Recently, with the introduction of the M1 chip in the MacBook Air and the 13-inch MacBook Pro, Apple adopted the USB-C port for charging and data transfer. However, older 17-inch models like the one you mentioned still use USB-A ports.

Charging Compatibility

Given that the iPad Pro charger is a USB-C device, it will not work directly with a MacBook Pro that uses USB-A or MagSafe. However, there is a workaround if you want to charge your MacBook Pro using the 2018 iPad Pro charger.

Charging Though a Wall Adapter

You can use a third-party USB-C to USB-A adapter to connect the iPad Pro charger to the MacBook Pro. This adapter will convert the USB-C signal to USB-A, allowing the charger to connect to your MacBook Pro. However, this setup may result in slower charging speeds or no charging at all, as the charger may not be powerful enough to supply the necessary current for the MacBook Pro.

Example Usage Scenario

Some users have reported using their 2018 iPad Pro charger to charge their sleeping 15-inch MacBook Pro from 20% to 100% overnight. This may seem promising, but it is important to note that the charging speed will likely be very slow, dependent on the output capacity of the charger and the power demand of the MacBook Pro during charging.

Why is Charging Slow?

The reason why using the iPad Pro charger with a MacBook Pro is slow is due to the differences in charging requirements and outputs. The iPad Pro charger is designed to meet the specific power needs of the iPad Pro, while the MacBook Pro's charging requirements are much higher, especially considering its CPU, GPU, and display.

Power Output of Chargers

The typical power output of a 2018 iPad Pro charger is around 15W. This is well below the 65W output of most MacBook Pro chargers, especially newer models. When connected using a USB-C to USB-A adapter, the charger may not provide the necessary power for fast charging, leading to slower charging times.

Conclusion

To summarize, a 2018 iPad Pro charger is not directly compatible with a MacBook Pro 17-inch, as the charging systems are different. Using a USB-C to USB-A adapter can allow charging, but the process will likely be slow. For optimal performance and faster charging, it is recommended to use an appropriate MacBook Pro charger.

Related Articles and Keywords

For more information on charging compatibility and tips, consider checking out these articles:

Understanding MacBook Pro and iPad Charging Compatibility Tips for Faster MacBook Pro Charging Best USB-C to USB-A Adapters for MacBook Charging

Keywords: iPad Pro charger, MacBook Pro, charging compatibility