Modern gadgets rely primarily on rechargeable batteries, and currently most devices use USB-C ports for this task. However, it’s not the only game in town. Apple brought back MagSafe charging after it was discontinued, so some owners may understandably wonder if their MacBook came with the charging system.
In order to locate your computer’s MagSafe charging port (assuming it has one), look at the left side of the laptop’s case, near the “Esc” key. You should find a fairly long, rounded rectangular port (USB-C ports are more of a flat oval). If you see this port, you have found your MagSafe port. Simply insert the included MagSafe cable and plug the USB-C end into a power adapter (then plug it into a wall outlet) or another powered USB-C port, and you should start charging.
As the name suggests, MagSafe uses magnets to maintain a secure connection without plugging a connector deep into a MacBook. It’s not particularly prone to falls, but it’s still easy to attach and detach. However, due to the gap in production times, not all MacBooks include the port. Currently, Apple uses MagSafe 3, which is only compatible with MacBook Air 2022 or later or MacBook Pro 2021 or later (and MacBook Pro 2022 M2 13-inch or later). Anything made before these dates will not have MagSafe ports or run on MagSafe or MagSafe 2 technology, which is incompatible with modern MagSafe cables. Oh, and MacBook Neo laptops don’t have MagSafe ports, so don’t bother looking if you have one.
MagSafe vs. USB-C: Which is Better?
For the most part, charging with a MagSafe cable versus charging with a USB-C cable is apples and oranges. Modern MacBooks can charge quickly using either method, although you shouldn’t rely too much on fast charging, because as with Android phones, regular charging puts less strain on the battery. The only real difference between MagSafe and USB-C charging is a matter of convenience.
The main advantage of the MagSafe port is that it is only used for charging. This design might diminish its potential uses, but MagSafe charging frees up your MacBook’s USB-C ports for other uses. Perhaps you want to connect a wired device (for example, a keyboard) while your MacBook is charging. You can also plug your Apple AirPods case into your MacBook and charge two devices with one plug. Plus, the MagSafe port has a handy status light that lets you know when your laptop is fully charged.
Alternatively, charging via USB-C is easy since these ports and cables are universal by design (it’s in the name). If you’re going on a trip and want to save space in your bags, just pack a single USB-C cable and the required power adapters, and you can charge all your devices with that single wire, but one at a time. Plus, if you misplace your charging cable, you can go to almost any electronics store and buy one. Just keep in mind that unless you spend a little more money on a quality USB-C cable that best suits your particular device, it won’t support fast charging speeds for your MacBook (or any other device with this feature, for that matter).
