60W vs 85W MacBook Charger: Real Differences

The main difference between a 60W and an 85W MacBook charger is the maximum power output: 60W delivers 60 watts, 85W delivers 85 watts. The 85W charger will charge a compatible MacBook faster, but it is also physically larger and heavier; the 60W charger is more portable but may not be sufficient for larger MacBook Pro models.

Background: Why MacBook Chargers Have Different Wattages

Apple has used different wattages for MacBook chargers to match the power needs of different models. The 60W MagSafe charger was standard for the 13-inch MacBook Pro and the MacBook (2006–2012), while the 85W MagSafe charger was used for the 15-inch and 17-inch MacBook Pro models. The wattage indicates the maximum power the charger can supply, and Apple designed each charger to safely power the laptop and charge its battery simultaneously.

With the transition to USB-C (starting with the 12-inch MacBook in 2015 and the MacBook Pro in 2016), Apple switched to USB-C Power Delivery (PD) chargers, which are also rated by wattage: 29W, 30W, 61W, 67W, 87W, 96W, and 140W. The 60W and 85W chargers are specifically the older MagSafe (T-shaped) or MagSafe 2 (L-shaped) models, though the same wattage principles apply to USB-C chargers.

How Charging Works: Wattage, Voltage, and Current

Wattage (W) is the product of voltage (V) and current (A): Watts = Volts × Amps. The 60W charger outputs 16.5V at 3.65A, while the 85W charger outputs 18.5V at 4.6A. The MacBook communicates with the charger to negotiate the correct voltage and current, so using a higher-wattage charger is generally safe because the laptop only draws what it needs.

However, using a lower-wattage charger than the laptop requires can cause problems: the charger may not be able to supply enough power to run the laptop and charge the battery simultaneously. In that case, the laptop will run off the charger but the battery may slowly discharge, or the charger may overheat and shut down. Apple’s support documents recommend using a charger with the same wattage or higher, but never lower than what the MacBook requires.

Physical Differences: Size, Weight, and Connector

The 85W charger is noticeably larger and heavier than the 60W charger. The 60W MagSafe adapter measures about 2.4 × 2.4 × 1.1 inches (61 × 61 × 28 mm) and weighs around 9.9 ounces (280 grams). The 85W MagSafe adapter is about 2.9 × 2.9 × 1.1 inches (74 × 74 × 28 mm) and weighs around 13.4 ounces (380 grams). This difference matters if you carry the charger in a bag or travel frequently.

Both use the same MagSafe or MagSafe 2 connector, so they are physically compatible with the same laptops. The connector is magnetic, so it detaches easily if the cord is pulled, preventing the laptop from being yanked off a table. The 85W charger also has a slightly thicker and longer AC cord, but that is not a functional difference.

Compatibility: Which MacBook Uses Which Charger?

Apple’s compatibility guidelines are simple:

• 60W charger: For 13-inch MacBook Pro (all models) and MacBook (2006–2012).
• 85W charger: For 15-inch and 17-inch MacBook Pro (all models).

You can use an 85W charger with a 13-inch MacBook Pro, and it will work fine—the laptop will only draw the power it needs. Apple even lists this as acceptable. However, using a 60W charger with a 15-inch MacBook Pro is not recommended because the laptop may require more power than the charger can provide, especially under heavy load (e.g., video editing or gaming). The battery may not charge, and the charger could overheat.

For USB-C MacBooks, the equivalent wattages are: 61W for 13-inch MacBook Pro, 67W for 14-inch MacBook Pro, 87W for 15-inch MacBook Pro (2016–2019), and 96W for 16-inch MacBook Pro. The same rule applies: you can use a higher-wattage USB-C charger, but not a lower one.

Charging Speed: How Much Faster Is 85W?

The 85W charger can charge a compatible MacBook faster than the 60W charger because it can supply more current. For example, a 15-inch MacBook Pro with an 85W charger can charge from empty to 50% in about 1 hour, while the same laptop with a 60W charger might take 1.5 to 2 hours, and may not even charge while in use. The exact time depends on the battery capacity, the laptop’s power draw, and whether the laptop is on or off.

If you use an 85W charger on a 13-inch MacBook Pro, the charging speed will be the same as with a 60W charger because the laptop limits the current draw to its design maximum. The extra headroom only matters if the laptop is under heavy load—the 85W charger can power the laptop and charge the battery simultaneously, while the 60W charger might just maintain the battery level.

Cost and Availability

The 85W charger is generally more expensive than the 60W charger, both from Apple and third-party sellers. As of 2025, Apple’s official 85W MagSafe charger retails for around $79, while the 60W is around $69. Third-party chargers are cheaper, but quality varies. Since Apple has discontinued MagSafe chargers in favor of USB-C, you may find them only through resellers or used markets, where prices can be lower but authenticity is a concern.

When buying a replacement, check the charger’s wattage and the connector type (MagSafe vs. MagSafe 2). MagSafe 2 is thinner and used on MacBook Pro models from 2012–2015; it is not compatible with the original MagSafe without an adapter.

Safety and Common Misconceptions

One common misconception is that using a higher-wattage charger will “overcharge” or damage the battery. This is false—the laptop’s charging circuitry regulates the current and voltage, so the battery only receives the correct amount. Overcharging is prevented by the battery management system.

Another misconception is that a lower-wattage charger is always safe because it “just charges slower.” In reality, using a 60W charger with an 85W MacBook Pro can cause the charger to run at its maximum capacity for extended periods, leading to overheating. Apple’s chargers have thermal protection, but sustained high load can still shorten the charger’s lifespan. It is best to use the correct wattage or higher.

Safety tips:

• Only use chargers with the correct wattage or higher for your MacBook.
• Check for frayed cables or damaged connectors—replace the charger if damaged.
• Do not cover the charger while in use; it needs airflow to dissipate heat.
• Use genuine Apple chargers or certified third-party ones (e.g., MFi or UL-listed) to avoid fire risks.

Alternatives: USB-C Chargers and Power Banks

If you have a MagSafe MacBook, you can use a USB-C to MagSafe 2 adapter (Apple sells one) to charge with a modern USB-C charger. This allows you to use a 61W or 87W USB-C charger, which is smaller and more versatile. For USB-C MacBooks, you can use any USB-C PD charger, including those from other brands, as long as the wattage meets the minimum requirement.

For travel, consider a GaN (gallium nitride) charger, which is smaller and lighter than the original Apple charger while delivering the same wattage. For example, a 65W GaN charger can replace both a 60W and an 85W charger for most MacBooks, but check that it supports the required voltage and current. Power banks with USB-C PD output (e.g., 65W or 100W) can also charge a MacBook on the go, but they are heavier and more expensive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an 85W charger on a 13-inch MacBook Pro?

Yes, it is safe. The laptop will only draw the power it needs, so the 85W charger will not damage the battery or the laptop. Apple explicitly states that using a higher-wattage charger is acceptable.

Will a 60W charger damage my 15-inch MacBook Pro?

It won’t immediately damage the laptop, but it may not charge the battery while the laptop is in use, and the charger may overheat under heavy load. Apple does not recommend using a lower-wattage charger, as it can cause the charger to fail prematurely.

How do I know which wattage my MacBook needs?

Check the original charger that came with the laptop, or look up the model number on Apple’s support site. You can also check the “About This Mac” → “System Report” → “Power” section, which lists the wattage of the connected charger.

Can I use a USB-C charger with an old MagSafe MacBook?

Yes, with an Apple USB-C to MagSafe 2 adapter. This adapter lets you connect a USB-C charger to the MagSafe 2 port. It works with 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro models from 2012–2015.

Is it okay to leave my MacBook plugged in overnight with an 85W charger?

Yes, modern MacBooks have battery management that stops charging when the battery reaches 100%. Leaving it plugged in is safe, though Apple recommends occasionally letting the battery drain to keep it healthy.

What happens if I use a 100W USB-C charger on a MacBook that needs 60W?

It will work fine; the MacBook will negotiate the correct voltage and current, drawing only what it needs. The charger will not force more power into the laptop.

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