iPhone Charging Speeds Comparison
Understanding the evolution of iPhone charging speeds, from Lightning to USB-C and the rise of MagSafe.
Max Charging Speeds by Model
| iPhone Model | Port | Max Wired Speed | MagSafe Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 Pro / Max | USB-C | 45W (Est.) | 25W |
| iPhone 16 Pro / Max | USB-C | 45W | 25W |
| iPhone 16 / Plus | USB-C | 45W | 25W |
| iPhone 15 Pro / Max | USB-C | 27W | 15W |
| iPhone 15 / Plus | USB-C | 20W-27W | 15W |
| iPhone 14 Series | Lightning | 20W-27W | 15W |
| iPhone 13 Series | Lightning | 20W-23W | 15W |
| iPhone 12 Series | Lightning | 20W | 15W* |
* iPhone 12 mini and 13 mini are limited to 12W MagSafe charging.
The USB-C Revolution
Starting with the iPhone 15 series, Apple transitioned to USB-C. This not only unified cables but paved the way for faster charging speeds in the iPhone 16 lineup, which supports up to 45W wired charging with a compatible adapter.
MagSafe Improvements
MagSafe started at 15W with the iPhone 12. With the iPhone 16, Apple introduced a new MagSafe charger capable of 25W wireless charging, significantly closing the gap between wired and wireless speeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a specific charger for 45W charging?
Yes, to achieve the maximum 45W speed on iPhone 16 and newer, you need a USB-C power adapter rated at 45W or higher (like a MacBook charger) and a cable that supports higher wattage.
Is fast charging bad for battery health?
Fast charging generates more heat, which can degrade batteries over time. However, iPhones have smart power management to throttle speeds when the battery gets warm or reaches 80% charge to protect longevity.