Since early 2015 when Apple introduced the reversible USB-C connector and ultrafast charging capabilities, their MacBook laptops have relied on this slim interface for transferring data and power. While convenient, moving to USB-C meant saying goodbye to the proprietary MagSafe charging port that provided a secure, magnetic breakaway connection.
Fast forward to today with new higher-wattage USB-C Power Delivery (USB-PD) chargers and GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology – MacBook charging abilities have caught up. USB-C ultimately provides a future-proof, universal connectivity standard for Apple‘s thin and light notebooks – and opens up options for more advanced third-party chargers.
But with so many models available offering different wattages, ports, sizes and prices – how do you determine which USB-C charger works optimally with your MacBook Air, Pro or even Max? As an long-time Apple user and charging accessories analyst, I‘ve assessed dozens of chargers hands-on and curated my top recommendations here based on performance, design, value and safety.
Whether you need compact travel chargers, maximum power for professional workflows, or reliable accessory charging – these USB-C picks check all the boxes to keep your MacBook running at full speed. I‘ll explain key factors like wattage requirements, port needs, material construction and latest GaN enhancements so you can shop smarter. Let‘s power up!
How to Select the Right USB-C Charger
Choosing an appropriate USB-C PD charger comes down four main considerations:
- MacBook Model
- Charging Wattage
- Number of Ports
- Price
Getting the optimal blend of these elements first requires understanding capabilities and limitations of your MacBook.
Apple has Friendly Charging Support built into their Mac line limiting battery input current as needed regardless of connected charger power. So higher-wattage USB-C chargers can be used safely with any model, though charging times are reduced unless wattage capabilities match.
Ideally you‘ll want to match charger wattage to what‘s provided by the OEM power adapter to enable fastest charging. Consider watt needs now if your workflow leans towards more intensive tasks, but also down the road if you ever upgrade to the latest power-hungry Silicon Macs.
Here’s a breakdown of charging specs for Apple’s current MacBook models:
| Device | Charger Wattage |
|---|---|
| 13′′ M2 MacBook Pro | 67W |
| 14′′ & 16′′ M1 Pro/Max MacBook Pro | 140W |
| M2 MacBook Air | 30W (67W Fast Charge compatible) |
| M1 & M2 MacBook Air | 30W |
Beyond pure power, think about convenience and productivity needs in terms of ports. Models with an extra USB-A or USB-C allow simultaneously charging another device like a phone, tablet or accessory.
Lastly, price should reflect capabilities. Higher wattage, multiple output chargers cost more but also enable faster charging. Consider how much those minutes saved not tethered to a cable are worth balanced against budget.
Now let‘s dive into my curated picks for the 5 best USB-C chargers for Apple MacBooks available in 2023.
1. Anker 747 Charger – Best Overall
[ INSERT IMAGE]Key Specs:
- Power: 140W
- Ports: 2 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A
- Dimensions: 2.48 x 2.48 x 1.38 in
- Materials: GaN II, PC
If you need to maximize charging speed for an intensive workflow on the go, Anker‘s premium 747 model is my top choice that really packs a punch.
This compact, high-performance charger squeezes 140 watts from an advanced GaN II chip – meeting needs of Apple‘s most powerful 16-inch MacBook Pro. What‘s GaN? It‘s an efficient semiconductor material that runs cooler and allows for smaller, more powerful designs compared to traditional silicon chips. I‘ll elaborate more on differences between GaN and silicon later.
The 747‘s clever tri-fold prongs tuck completely flush for easy portability. Its handsome, minimalist design even mirrors Apple‘s own impeccably styled power bricks.
For ports, you get two USB-C and one USB-A. The 747 can drive full 140W output solely over USB-C to fast charge a single device like a MacBook in about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can spread 96W of peak power across all ports to juice up accessories like an iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods simultaneously.
This flexibility makes the 747 a versatile choice for both travel and full workstation setups. It comes backed by Anker’s 18 month warranty and U.S. based customer service.
For MacBook owners that need prosumer charging abilities in a highly portable form factor – the Anker 747 should top your list with its clean yet powerful performance.
Check Price: [Link to Anker 747 Product Page]
2. Aukey Omnia Mix 65W – Best Budget Dual Port
[ INSERT IMAGE]Key Specs:
- Power: 65W
- Ports: 2 x USB-C
- Dimensions: 1.77 x 1.61 x 1.1 in
- Materials: GaN II, PC/ABS
While lower profile compared to Anker‘s 747, Aukey‘s Omnia Mix still unleashes 65 watts of power enough to fast charge 13 or 14-inch MacBook Pros at full speed. Its slim design sporting foldable prongs coupled with dual USB-C ports makes it an compelling affordable travel charger option.
I‘m a fan of Aukey‘s robust quality and trendsetting designs over the years. The Omnia Mix features an oval, puck-like shape with tips finished in Aukey‘s attractive navy blue color treatment.
Its choice of upgraded GaN II technology increases power conversion efficiency for faster charging compared to standard silicon chipsets – while running a cool 41°F lower under load testing. This means the tiny Omnia can sustain max speeds without getting hot, enabling Aukey to concentrate every last millimeter into a highly compact footprint.
While its 65 watt output is only about half what Anker‘s 747 supports, that‘s still plenty powerful to refuel most modern MacBooks and iPads at speed. Dual USB-C ports let you power two devices at once, though with a split of 45W/20W prioritization. Still, super convenient to charge your phone or accessories from the same brick while juicing your Mac.
If you‘re looking for a versatile two-port USB-C charger with advanced GaN performance in a supremely compact design – all for just $30 – throw the Aukey Omnia Mix 65W in your gear bag.
Check Price: [Link to Aukey Omnia Mix Product Page]
3. Anker PowerExtend 7-in-1 – Best for College
[ INSERT IMAGE ]Key Specs:
- Power: 60W USB PD
- Ports: 1 x USB-C, 5 x USB-A, AC Outlet
- Dimensions: 3.15 x 2.80 x 1.10 in
- Materials: PC
Anker‘s aptly named PowerExtend 7-in-1 brings the full multiport powerstrip experience in a compact, desk-friendly gadget perfect for college dorm life.
It packs 60 watts of USB-PD charging from its main USB-C port – enough for full speed fills on 13-inch MacBooks. Four of its five USB-A ports pump out Anker‘s proprietary PowerIQ fast charging for phones, tablets and accessories. And there‘s even a compact AC outlet to directly plug in lamps, displays or printers.
This Swiss Army charger aimed at students dispenses an incredible variety of options to power up virtually any device thrown its way in a tidy white puck. Its multi-segmented design folds flat keeping connectors safe for tossing in backpacks between classes. A 5 foot USB-C cable stretches to reach awkward dorm outlets.
While only packing 60 USB-PD watts limits its ability to quickly refuel the latest powerful MacBook Pros for professional use, as an affordable USB/AC charging hub for basic needs – the Anker PowerExtend 7-in-1 is a versatile pick for tech-laden scholars.
Check Price: [Link to Anker PowerExtend 7-in-1 Product Page]
4. ZMI PowerPack 10K – Best All-In-One for Travel
[ INSERT IMAGE ]Key Specs:
- Battery Capacity: 10,000 mAh
- Charger Power: 45W USB-PD
- Ports: 1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A
- Dimensions: 5.71 x 2.68 x 0.94 in
- Materials: ABS, PC
Frequent flyers will love the ultimate portability of ZMI‘s integrated battery pack and wall charger combo. The PowerPack 10K combines a compact 10,000 mAh mobile battery with 45 watt USB-PD wall charging abilities.
This two-in-one design lets you juice up your MacBook on the go via 45W USB-PD, while also packing along backup power to recharge your iPhone multiple times. Dual outputs include one USB-C PD ideal for laptops, while a standard USB-A Quick Charge port handles phones – allowing you to power two devices simultaneously.
Four LEDs display remaining battery, while an advanced PMIC chip regulates safe recharging and voltage dispensing. The whole shebang weighs only 8 ounces encased in durable ABS and PC plastic available in both black and white finishes.
For travelers seeking the ultimate charging Swiss Army knife able handle any mobile power scenario, the ZMI PowerPack 10K is a well-rounded pick that ticked all my boxes.
Check Price: [Link to ZMI PowerPack 10K Product Page]
5. Anker 733 – Best Wall Charger for iPhone & Accessories
[ INSERT IMAGE ]Key Specs:
- Power: 30W USB-PD
- Ports: 1 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A
- Dimensions: 1.77 x 1.77 x 1.1 in
- Materials: GaN II, PC
My last recommendation switches gears to provide a more streamlined wall charger option focused on iPhones & accessories rather than laptops.
Anker‘s 30W 733 model delivers Apple-spec‘d charging speeds for recent iPhones in a pint-sized footprint matching their 12W stock power adapter. Its folding twin prongs accommodate worldwide outlets, while 15W USB PowerIQ speeds top off tablets or even Quick Charge compatible Android devices from the USB-A port.
The 733‘s choice of GaN II transformers allows for a remarkable reduction in size compared to equivalent 30W silicon chargers – without sacrificing muscle or heat dissipation. At just 1.3oz, its barely larger than an AirTag!
For iPhone owners seeking a future-proof charger beyond what Apple provides in-box to also fast charge accessories or even charge modernized iPads – the Anker 733 punches way above its tiny weight class at an affordable price.
Check Price: [Link to Anker 733 Product Page]
Key Advantages of GaN vs Silicon Chargers
Many of my recommendations feature the latest Gallium Nitride or GaN semiconductor technology which offers significant performance and efficiency benefits compared to traditional silicon transformers in chargers. Let‘s analyze key differences:
Efficiency
GaN chargers convert and deliver over 90% of input power, versus just 60-80% efficiency from silicon. This allows more compact designs running cooler given reduced wasted heat dissipation.
Temperature
GaN transistors operate 60°C cooler under load conditions enabling sustained fast charging without risk of overheating, especially in more compact footprints.
Size
GaN‘s wide bandgap properties concentrate capabilities allowing for much smaller, thinner designs – yet supporting higher peak power transfers. A 60W GaN charger can be 64% smaller than silicon equivalent.
Speed
Higher efficiency GaN conversion circuits charge connected devices potentially 3x faster compared to standard silicon models given reduced electrical resistance.
So in summary, GaN technology enables manufacturers to build smaller, smarter chargers that waste less input power while charging devices faster and at lower safer operating temperatures. As adoption spreads, prices are lowering putting these advanced power bricks within reach of more savvy shoppers. Consider GaN a must-have for your next MacBook charger!
Shop Smart: Choosing Safe, Reliable USB-C Chargers
While my charger picks come from manufacturers like Anker and Aukey with strong reputations for quality and safety – its always wise practice when dealing with electrical products sourced from anywhere in the world to put safety first.
Here are key buying practices I‘d recommend to ensure getting authentic certified chargers that won‘t damage your pricey Apple gear:
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Research Brand Reputation – Stick to recognizable names like Anker, RAVPower, ZMI. Avoid no-name accessories with little accountability.
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Verify Safety & Compliance Certifications – Legitimate chargers should display marks like UL, ETL, FCC, CE, RoHS, etc confirming third-party safety testing.
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Purchase From Reputable Retailers – Buying directly from Amazon, Apple or licensed sellers gives additional fraud protection over random websites.
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Inspect Product Photos Carefully – Counterfeit models often mimic branding without proper certification marks visible upon close examination.
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Check Condition Upon Arrival – Don‘t use if any sign of damage or bent electrical contacts that could indicate shortcuts.
I hope these practical buying tips help you shop safer as much as my charger recommendations! Please don‘t hesitate to comment any questions below!
