Introduction
The debate over whether MagSafe or USB-C chargers are faster for the M1 Pro and M1 Max MacBooks has been a subject of discussion in the tech community. This article aims to clarify the differences and determine which charger is the better choice for faster charging.
MagSafe Charging: The Powerhouse of the M1 Pro/Max
The M1 Pro and M1 Max MacBooks are equipped with the MagSafe 3 charger, which can deliver up to 140W of power. This makes it an outstanding choice for faster charging, especially when using a high-wattage charger. The ability to provide such a significant amount of power is a direct advantage of the MagSafe system.
The Speed of the MagSafe Charger
When using the 140W MagSafe 3 charger, the M1 Pro and M1 Max MacBooks can charge at an impressive speed. This high-wattage charger is designed to leverage the full power potential of the MagSafe system, making it ideal for rapid charging sessions.
USB-C Charging: The Versatile Choice
While USB-C chargers can support high-wattage charging up to 100W with USB Power Delivery (USB PD), their speed may not match that of the MagSafe charger, especially if the USB-C charger is lower in wattage. USB-C is known for its versatility and compatibility with various devices, but in the context of the M1 Pro and M1 Max MacBooks, it may not provide the same charging speed as MagSafe.
Limitations of USB-C Charging
USB-C and Thunderbolt are limited to a maximum of around 100W of power. Therefore, a 100W USB-C charger might not achieve the same charging speeds as the 140W MagSafe charger. However, for some users, a high-wattage USB-C charger (such as a 140W one) might provide similar charging speeds.
The Actual Testing Perspective
While I haven't personally tested the MagSafe and USB-C charging methods, my experience suggests that wired charging (cables) generally outperforms wireless charging. The MagSafe system is essentially a wireless charger, which could be why some users perceive it as slightly slower.
Advantages of MagSafe Charging
Not only is the MagSafe charger faster, but it also provides more energy for faster charging. USB-C and Thunderbolt are limited to around 100W, while the M1 Pro and M1 Max MacBooks can benefit from the higher wattage of the MagSafe charger. The 140W MagSafe charger is particularly recommended for the 14-inch models and necessary for the 16-inch models to achieve fast charging speeds.
MagSafe Wattage Variations
The MagSafe chargers for the M1 come in various wattages, ranging from around 60W to 150W. While USB PD (Power Delivery) as of 2021 can handle up to 100W, the 140W MagSafe charger can still provide faster charging compared to the lower wattage options. The MagSafe system uses a combination of a specialized cable and the magnetic system to deliver power at higher rates.
Future Considerations
It's worth noting that the USB consortium, of which Apple is a member, has defined a specification for USB-C charging up to 200W. This means that future USB-C cables might be able to provide the same charging speeds as the most powerful MagSafe chargers. However, for now, the 140W MagSafe charger remains the superior choice for faster charging.
Conclusion
In summary, while USB-C charging remains a viable option, the MagSafe charger is generally faster for the M1 Pro and M1 Max MacBooks, especially when using a high-wattage charger. USB-C's compatibility and versatility make it a strong contender, but the MagSafe system is purpose-built for the M1 chip's power requirements, offering unparalleled speed and efficiency.