Apple's new M1 Pro and M1 Max MacBook Pro models boast fast-charging capabilities for quick top-ups, but buyers of the base model 14-inch variant will need to spring for a power adapter upgrade to take advantage of the feature.
Both the 14-inch MacBook Pro and 16-inch MacBook Pro can be fast-charged with a compatible power adapter, and Apple includes such hardware in most purchase configurations. That is not the case with the base 14-inch model, however, meaning users who want to access quick charging capabilities will need to purchase an upgrade at checkout or buy a separate adapter.
All 14-inch MacBook Pro models require a 96W adapter to perform a fast-charge, which can take the laptop from 0% to 50% charge in about 30 minutes, the company says on its website.
As noted on a tech specs webpage, the 14-inch MacBook Pro powered by an M1 Pro with 8-core CPU comes with a 67W USB-C power adapter in the box. That part is good enough for "efficient charging at home, in the office, or on the go," according to the company, but fast-charging is a non-starter.
For base model buyers, the requisite 96W USB-C adapter that is included with configurations powered by an M1 Pro with 10-core CPU or an M1 Max chip must be purchased as a $20 upgrade. The item costs $79 as a standalone purchase from the Apple Store and is currently out of stock.
With the proper equipment, users can fast-charge the 14-inch MacBook Pro through either a Thunderbolt 4 port or MagSafe 3.
A report earlier today noted that 16-inch MacBook Pro owners can only fast-charge via MagSafe 3, as the laptop's power requirements exceed the USB-C Power Delivery cap of 100W. Unlike base model 14-inch versions, however, all 16-inch configurations come ready to fast-charge with a 140W power brick in the box.