Apple’s MacBook chargers have become infamous, and not in a good way. They’re pricey, fragile, and prone to fraying like an old shoelace. We’ve all been there—sitting at a café, eyes darting around in fear that your charger will suddenly give up the ghost. But does it really have to be this way? Spoiler alert: it doesn’t. There are alternatives—better ones, in fact—and we’re going to talk about them. In 2024, you don’t need to stick with Apple’s overpriced power brick. Enter the era of the best alternate Apple laptop charger, where you pay less for more durability, versatility, and frankly, peace of mind.
Why You Should Avoid Apple’s Official Charger
First things first—why exactly do people hate Apple’s official chargers? Let’s not mince words here: Apple loves to overcharge, no pun intended.
- Pricey AF: Seriously, $79 for a charger? What are they made of, gold?
- Durability Issues: Many users report the cables fraying or breaking after just a few months of use.
- Overheating Problems: There’s a reason why your MacBook feels like it’s doubling as a space heater when it’s charging.
- Lack of Innovation: Apple’s chargers haven’t evolved much over the years. They’re still as basic as they come.
So, if you’re tired of paying through the nose for chargers that barely last, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the best alternate Apple laptop charger options for 2024 that’ll save you money and headaches.
What Makes a Great Alternate Apple Laptop Charger?
Before we jump into the list of the best alternate Apple laptop charger 2024, let’s discuss what to look for in a solid alternative. You can’t just grab any charger off the shelf, cross your fingers, and hope it works with your MacBook.
- Compatibility: Make sure it works with your specific MacBook model. USB-C is standard now, but older models might require adapters.
- Power Output: The last thing you want is a charger that’s too weak. Check the wattage, folks—at least 60W for most MacBook models.
- Durability: If the cable looks flimsy, guess what? It probably is flimsy.
- Safety Features: Over-voltage protection, short circuit protection, and overheating protection—don’t gamble with your expensive MacBook’s life.
- Portability: Smaller, sleeker chargers are a blessing when you’re always on the go.
The Best Alternate Apple Laptop Charger Options for 2024
Now, let’s get down to business. Here’s our rundown of the top alternative chargers for your Apple laptop this year. Each of these choices beats Apple’s official charger in one way or another (usually in more ways than one).
1. Anker 735 Charger (Nano II 65W)
Let’s be real: when it comes to chargers, Anker knows what’s up. The Anker 735 Charger, aka Nano II 65W, is hands down one of the best alternate Apple laptop chargers of 2024.
- Why It’s Awesome: It’s smaller than Apple’s chunky brick, charges just as fast (if not faster), and is way more affordable.
- Durability: The Nano II is built to last. You won’t find it fraying or overheating like certain white chargers we could name.
- Bonus: It charges multiple devices at once. MacBook, iPhone, iPad? No problem!
2. RAVPower PD Pioneer 65W
Another powerhouse in the world of chargers, the RAVPower PD Pioneer 65W packs a punch, and it’s also a great option for those looking to avoid Apple’s exorbitant prices.
- Why It’s Awesome: It offers fast charging with 65W of power, which is perfect for most MacBooks.
- Durability: With robust construction, this charger won’t give up after a few months.
- Bonus: Its foldable design makes it super portable, so you can toss it in your bag without a second thought.
3. Nekteck 65W USB-C Charger
Nekteck may not be a household name like Anker, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a contender. Their 65W USB-C charger is a fantastic budget-friendly alternative to Apple’s MacBook charger.
- Why It’s Awesome: Despite the low price, it’s certified by USB-IF, meaning it meets all industry standards for safety and performance.
- Durability: This thing is solid. It’ll stand up to being stuffed in a backpack day after day.
- Bonus: It comes with a 6.6ft USB-C cable, which is more than you’ll get with Apple’s charger.
4. HyperJuice 100W USB-C Charger
If you’re looking for something with a little more juice—literally—HyperJuice has you covered. Their 100W USB-C charger is perfect for people using MacBook Pros or anyone needing serious power.
- Why It’s Awesome: It can charge your MacBook and three other devices at the same time. Yes, you read that right.
- Durability: HyperJuice has built a reputation for producing rugged, high-quality products.
- Bonus: It’s compact, despite its power capabilities. Not as bulky as you’d expect for something this powerful.
5. Aukey Omnia 65W Charger
Aukey’s 65W Omnia charger is another top pick for the best alternate Apple laptop charger in 2024. This one’s especially popular for its travel-friendly design.
- Why It’s Awesome: Small, powerful, and smart enough to prevent overheating, this charger ticks all the boxes.
- Durability: Built with travel in mind, it’ll withstand the rigors of daily life and then some.
- Bonus: Aukey throws in an 18-month warranty, which is pretty generous.
FAQs
1. Are third-party chargers safe to use with MacBooks?
Yes, as long as you choose reputable brands with safety certifications. Look for chargers with over-voltage, over-current, and overheating protection.
2. Do alternate chargers charge as fast as Apple’s?
In many cases, yes! In fact, some third-party chargers can even outperform Apple’s charger, especially when it comes to fast charging.
3. Can I use my phone charger for my MacBook?
Not advisable. Most phone chargers don’t offer enough power (wattage) to efficiently charge a MacBook, and it could lead to overheating or slow charging times.
4. What wattage should I look for in an alternate charger?
Most MacBooks require a charger of at least 60W. If you have a MacBook Pro, you might need 85W or even 100W, depending on the model.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. The best alternate Apple laptop charger 2024 isn’t just one product; it’s a whole range of options that can easily outperform Apple’s official offerings. Why shell out more for a charger that’ll likely fall apart in a year when you can get something cheaper, more durable, and often more powerful? Whether you go for the sleek Anker Nano II or the powerhouse HyperJuice 100W, you’re making a smarter choice.