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Identifying MagSafe Chargers

 
 

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There are three styles of MagSafe chargers for MacBooks. This article will cover each one, as well as additional information about the chargers, such as the LED light.

White, T-style



This adapter was the first of the MagSafe adapters. It came with the following Mac models:
  • MacBook Pro (2006 - 2008)
  • MacBook (black/white, 2006-2010)
This adapter uses the original MagSafe technology, and the magnet is skinnier than the one found on MagSafe 2 chargers.


Aluminum, L-style




This adapter was the second variety introduced, first used in 2008. It came with the following Mac models:
  • MacBook Pro (non-Retina, 2008 and later)
  • MacBook Air (2008 - 2011)
This adapter uses the original MagSafe technology, and the magnet is skinnier than the one found on MagSafe 2 chargers.


Aluminum, T-style



This adapter is the first and only adapter so far to use MagSafe 2. It was first introduced in 2012. It came with the following Mac models:
  • MacBook Air (2012 and later)
  • MacBook Pro (Retina, all)
This adapter uses the MagSafe 2 technology, and the magnet is wider than the one found on original MagSafe chargers.


Other Information

What is the Difference Between MagSafe and MagSafe 2?
MagSafe 2 is thinner, which helps it adapt to the thin design of the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with Retina display, and to allow more room for internal components in the computer. As a result, the magnet is slightly weaker and may come detached more easily, but the difference in magnet strength is minuscule.

Can a MagSafe Charger be used on a Mac with MagSafe 2?
Yes, with a $10 adapter from Apple: http://store.apple.com/us/product/MD504ZM/A/magsafe-to-magsafe-2-converter. However, a MagSafe 2 charger cannot be used with a Mac that uses the original MagSafe; there is no adapter that goes the other way.

What does the LED Light on the Charger Mean?
When the light is off, the Mac is not charging. When it is red, it is charging. When it is green, it is fully charged. The MacBook and MacBook Pro  (non-Retina) have a button on the computer that you can press to see the battery level. On the MacBook and non-unibody MacBook Pro, this is located on the battery itself, on the bottom of the computer. For the unibody MacBook Pro (2008 - 2012), with a non-removable battery, there is a small, round button on the left side of the computer.

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