What wattage does your MacBook charger need?
Apple publishes a minimum and, on recent models, a fast-charge wattage. The table below uses those figures.
Independent advice
Editorial picks 2026
Documented sources
Your Mac only draws what it needs
A higher-wattage Mac charger will not fry the machine. USB Power Delivery negotiates. A weaker charger will still work, but slowly — details in the Mac charger guide.
Recommended wattage by model
| Model | Minimum | Fast charge (Apple) |
|---|---|---|
| MacBook Air M1–M5 | 30W (13" M1 through M5) / 35W (15") | 70W+ (M2 through M5); Apple 67W also on 13.6-inch Air |
| MacBook Pro 13" | 61W (adapter Apple recommends; the M2 shipped with a 67W) | not published |
| MacBook Pro 14" | 60W (M5) / 70W (M5 Pro/Max) | 96W or higher |
| MacBook Pro 16" | 96W (Intel 2019) / 140W (2021+) | 140W USB-C |
Estimate your ideal wattage
The estimator repeats the Apple figures from the table. It does not multiply them by how you use the Mac.
If you go weaker
It will charge, slowly. A Pro 14" on a 30W brick can take hours — or not charge at all under load. Prefer a certified brick from the comparison.
If you go stronger
Often a good idea if you also charge a phone or want headroom. A 96W charger on an Air is fine. For official vs GaN, see Apple vs compatible.
Wattage FAQ
No. MacBooks regulate incoming power. A more powerful charger does not force extra current into the battery.
Yes, but charging will be slow — or stall — if the machine draws more than the charger can supply.
Check Apple’s spec sheet or the label on your old charger. Our wattage table also lists each model.
This page has no shopping links. The Amazon links on the comparison and model pages are paid links.
Ready to pick the charger?
Open the MacBook charger comparison, or return to the English hub.