# MagSafe vs USB-C: how to charge a MacBook

> One connector saves your laptop from a tripped cable, the other saves space in your bag. Here is when each wins.
- Title: MagSafe vs USB-C: how to charge a MacBook · Engadget
- Summary: One connector saves your laptop from a tripped cable, the other saves space in your bag. Here is when each wins. MagSafe is the safer, faster default for…
- Keywords: macbook, magsafe, usb-c, charging, apple, technology, charge, Engadget
- Source: Engadget — https://engadget.com/2252867/usb-c-vs-magsafe-best-macbook-charging-option
- Author: Filipe Espósito
- Published: 2026-09-14T00:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: macbook, magsafe, usb-c, charging, apple, technology
## Two ways to fill the battery
Modern MacBooks take a charge through the magnetic MagSafe port or through USB-C. You cannot use both at once, and either one does the job.

> they can both be great charging options depending on what you need at a given moment
## Not the iPhone MagSafe
The iPhone version runs on the Qi wireless standard. The MacBook uses a proprietary plug, and MagSafe 1, 2 and 3 are not cross-compatible with each other.
## The trip-over test
Yank a MagSafe cable and it pops off the laptop. Yank a USB-C cable and there is a good chance the Mac comes with it, onto the floor.

> It won't pull your MacBook down with it.
## MagSafe charges faster
On a 2021 MacBook Pro or 2022 Air and later, MagSafe hits 140W with Apple's $99 adapter. That is 50 percent battery in half an hour.

> a 50 percent charge in just 30 minutes
## Most USB-C cables are slow
The usual USB-C cable tops out at 60W, less than half of MagSafe. Only special cables push 100W or 240W, so check before you buy.
## One cable for everything
USB-C wins for travel: a single charger covers Mac, iPhone and iPad. MacBook Pros after November 2023 also take 240W over USB-C. Pack one of each.

> MagSafe is for Macs only.
## Key takeaway

MagSafe is the safer, faster default for most MacBooks, but a good USB-C cable is the one you want when you are packing light.