Understand the variety of Apple USB Adapters: Your Guide to Safe and Efficient Charging

We have got all the details you need right here. We will unravel the complexities of Apple power adapters, ensuring you can charge your Apple devices safely, efficiently, and conveniently.

Understanding Apple USB Power Adapters

Apple designs its USB power adapters and cables with customer safety as a top priority. Rigorously tested for safety and reliability, they are designed to meet government safety standards globally. 

Here’s the twist: to further Apple’s environmental goals, they longer include a power adapter in the box with iPhone models. But don’t worry, your iPhone continues to work flawlessly with existing power adapters and USB-A to Lightning cables. Apple now only includes a USB‑C to Lightning cable in the box that supports fast charging and is compatible with USB‑C power adapters and computer ports. With the release of the iPhone 15 series which is now a USB-C port, you will receive a USB-C to USB-C cable in your box.

Choosing the Right Adapter

Depending on the model of your device, it may come with a specific power adapter. Let’s dive into the details:

5W USB Power Adapter

Most iPhone models earlier than iPhone 11 came with a 5W power adapter in the box.

10W USB Power Adapter

You’ll find a 10W power adapter in the box with the following devices:

• iPad Air 2
• iPad Air
• iPad mini 4
• iPad mini 3
• iPad mini 2
• iPad 2

12W USB Power Adapter

The 12W power adapter is included with:

• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st generation)
• iPad Pro (10.5-inch)
• iPad Pro (9.7-inch)
• iPad Air (3rd generation)
• iPad mini (5th generation)
• iPad (7th generation)
• iPad (6th generation)
• iPad (5th generation)

Note: In some countries and regions, the above models ship with the 10W power adapter.

18W USB-C Power Adapter

These devices come with an 18W power adapter:

• iPad Pro 12.9 inch (4th generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9 inch (3rd generation)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation)
• iPad Pro 11-inch

Fun fact: The Apple 18W USB-C power adapter can fast charge your iPhone 8 or later.

20W USB-C Power Adapter

The 20W power adapter is included with:

• iPad mini (6th generation)
• iPad (9th generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)
• iPad (8th generation)
• iPad Air (4th generation)

Power Adapter Certifications

When an iOS or iPadOS device is packaged with an Apple USB power adapter, rest assured that the adapter is certified to meet government safety standards in the countries and regions where the device is available.

Apple USB power adapters are designed for use with power sources rated to provide 100V AC to 240V AC at 50Hz to 60Hz. The Type A (flat parallel-blade design) Apple 5W USB, 18W, and 20W USB-C power adapters, as well as the 10W and 12W USB power adapters (with Type A AC plug attached) also comply with the IEC/UL 60950-1 and IEC/UL 62368-1 standards for use with power sources rated to provide 115V AC at 400Hz.

Apple USB Adapters for iPad and Mac Laptops

Apple’s USB power adapters aren’t just for their specific devices – they’re more versatile than you might think. You can use Apple USB power adapters for iPad and Mac laptops to charge not only your iPad and Mac but also your iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods, and other Apple products.

The Apple 12W USB Power Adapter, for instance, is a multitasking powerhouse. It can charge your iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, and even your AirPods and Siri Remote. Simply connect your device to the power adapter with the USB to Lightning cable or the Apple Watch charger that came with your device.

Also, if you are a proud owner of a USB-C Power Adapter, you should know that some models are fast-charge compatible with specific iPhone and iPad models when paired with an Apple USB-C to Lightning cable.

The 35W Dual USB-C Port Power Adapter

Charge two devices at once? Now that’s possible with the 35W Dual USB-C Port Power Adapter. This high-powered gadget lets you charge two devices simultaneously, meaning you won’t have to choose between charging your iPhone or iPad first.

Fast Charging Your iPhone

Speed matters. When it comes to charging your iPhone, fast charge compatibility allows you to power up your iPhone up to 50 percent battery in just about 30 minutes. This feature is available for iPhone 8 and later models.

To fast charge your iPhone, you’ll need an Apple USB-C to Lightning cable and one of these adapters:

• Apple 18W, 20W, 29W, 30W, 35W, 61W, 67W, 87W, 96W, or 140W USB-C Power Adapter
• A comparable third-party USB-C power adapter that supports USB Power Delivery (USB-PD)

Keep in mind that fast charging might not work in conditions that are too cold or too hot. If you’re not sure which Apple Power Adapter you have, check the wattage on the top or bottom of the adapter.

The Apple USB-C to Lightning Cable

The Apple USB-C to Lightning cable is a versatile tool in your tech kit, opening up a world of charging and syncing possibilities. Here’s what you can do with this handy cable:

• Charge your AirPods, AirPods Pro, iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch when connected to a USB-C port.
• Fast-charge compatible iPhone models when connected to certain USB-C power adapters.
• Sync your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch or import your photos when connected to a USB-C port on your Mac or PC.
• Charge a Siri Remote when connected to a USB-C port on a Mac, PC, or USB-C power adapter.
• Charge Apple accessories like a Magic Mouse, Magic Keyboard, or Magic Trackpad.
• Use your iPhone or iPad as a Personal Hotspot when connected over a USB-C to Lightning cable.

FAQ

1. Can I use any Apple power adapter for any Apple device?

Yes, you can use any Apple USB power adapter to charge your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or iPod. You can also use a Mac USB-C Power Adapter or third-party adapters that comply with applicable safety standards.

2. What is fast charging and which devices support it?

Fast charging is a feature that allows your device to be charged significantly faster than standard charging methods. With fast charging, you can recharge your iPhone 8 and later up to 50 percent battery in around 30 minutes. This requires an Apple USB-C to Lightning cable and a compatible Apple or third-party USB-C power adapter that supports USB Power Delivery (USB-PD).

3. How do I identify my Apple power adapter?

You can identify your Apple Power Adapter by checking the wattage on the top or bottom of the adapter. The wattage signifies the power output of the adapter and can range from 5W to 140W depending on the model.

4. Can I charge non-Apple devices with an Apple power adapter?

Yes, you can charge non-Apple devices with an Apple power adapter. However, make sure the adapter’s output suits the device’s requirements, and you have a compatible charging cable. If your iPhone is not charging or is showing an unsupported accessory warning, read this article for more troubleshooting.

5. What’s the difference between USB-C and Lightning cable?

USB-C and Lightning cables are different types of connectors. The Lightning connector is proprietary to Apple and is used to connect Apple mobile devices like iPhones, iPads, and iPods to host computers, external monitors, cameras, USB battery chargers, and other peripherals. USB-C, on the other hand, is a type of connector that’s used by a wide range of manufacturers and can be found on various types of devices, from laptops to mobile phones.

6: What happens if I use a non-OEM or non-Apple approved charger for my Apple device?

Using a non-original equipment manufacturer (non-OEM) or non-Apple approved charger can potentially have negative effects on your device’s battery health.

Non-Apple chargers may not adhere to the same safety and quality standards that Apple implements for its products. This can lead to a risk of overheating, short-circuiting, or even causing a fire in extreme cases. These chargers may not provide a consistent power supply or the correct voltage for your device. This inconsistency can cause undue stress on the battery, leading to accelerated battery wear and a shorter overall lifespan. In some cases, it may even lead to battery swelling or failure.

Using a non-Apple charger can also potentially void your device’s warranty, as Apple’s warranty terms specify the use of Apple-branded or Apple-certified products.

To ensure optimal battery health and safety, it is always recommended to use Apple-branded or Apple-certified chargers and adapters for your Apple devices. These products are specifically designed to work with your devices and meet strict safety standards.