I’ve tested many MacBook accessories – and this USB-C made the biggest impact

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• This Type-C to Magsafe 3 Converter is available for around $15.
• It turns any USB-C cable into a MagSafe 3 cable, with the same charging speeds and same magnetic breakaway.
• It’s far cheaper than buying a replacement cable from Apple.

I think Apple’s MagSafe charging system for its MacBook line is a fantastic idea. The breakaway magnetic connector not only makes attaching the cable to the MacBook a snap — literally. But it also prevents potentially thousands of dollars of damage if you or someone in your vicinity accidentally trips over the cord.

But what happens when you lose or damage your cable? Is Apple’s $50 replacement your only option? Definitely not. 

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You could just settle for a plain old USB-C cord. Get one that can deliver 140W or more of power, and you’re good to go. 

If you’re worried about someone tripping over the cable and dragging your laptop across the table to certain doom, you could get a magnetic breakaway USB-C connector, but then you’re now permanently devoting a USB-C port to charging, and USB-C ports can be in short supply. What you really need is a USB-C to MagSafe 3 adapter 

This adapter has fits the MagSafe 3 connector.

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

This adapter fits onto the end of a USB-C cable — again, you want a 140W or better cable to get the fastest charging experience — and turns it into a MagSafe 3 cable. It’s that simple. It’s magnetic, so it will break away if something bad happens and keeps the USB-C ports free for more important stuff.

The connector can fit either way, offering flexibility in the way the cable goes.

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET

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I’ve been testing quite a few of these adapters, and they work great. You can even get ones in different orientations to get the best cable orientation. Best of all, you can pick one up for about $15, which is a lot cheaper than Apple’s official MagSafe 3 cable.

ZDNET’s buying advice

While nothing beats the original Apple hardware — the latest USB-C to MagSafe 3 cable is stylish and tough — the prices can, at times, be a bit hard to swallow. Many people don’t realize how much a replacement MagSafe 3 cable is until they are faced with having to buy one. 

Luckily, there are more budget-friendly options open, and these USB-C to MagSafe 3 adapters are one of the cheapest solutions that don’t have any compromises.