Can You Charge a MacBook Pro with a 12″ MacBook Charger?

The beauty of USB-C is the technology’s inherent ability to be universal. It’s capable of data exchange, high-resolution video output, 100W of power transfer – not to mention USB-C connectors fit in any USB-C port – so connection possibilities are virtually endless.

In one example, you might find yourself with a dead MacBook Pro – and no MacBook Pro charger. You might wonder if it’s possible to charge it with a different power cable and adapter, like the smaller one that comes bundled with the 12″ MacBook.

The short answer is yes, yes you can. The long answer is also yes, but your MacBook Pro will charge much slower than it will with its intended adapter.

• The AC to USB-C adapter that comes bundled with the latest MacBook Pro is rated at 61W.
• The AC to USB-C power adapter included with the 12″ MacBook is rated at 29W – meaning it’s capable of delivering less power at one given time.

While it can be convenient to charge your MacBook Pro with another adapter, we recommend you don’t rely on an underpowered AC adapter, as the long-term effects are unknown.

However, there isn’t any solid proof stating that using a different Apple charger or cable will pose harm to yourself or your devices.

Use the 61W adapter whenever possible, but for charging in a pinch, the 29W adapter will work fine (just slowly).