Apple 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max Review (MGKN4AM/A)
Charging tech has gotten weird in a good way. Instead of “bigger watt = always better,” Apple’s 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max aims for something smarter: a compact charger that can deliver higher power when it actually helps—then drop back down for heat control and efficiency. Apple+2The Verge+2
If you’re buying it mainly for an iPhone, iPad, or as a small “do-everything” USB-C brick for travel, this charger makes a lot of sense. Here’s the real-world breakdown.
Quick Verdict
Buy it if: you want the fastest wired charging for iPhone 17 models, a premium compact charger for travel, or one adapter that can handle iPhone + iPad + occasional laptop top-ups. Apple+2B&H Photo Video+2
Skip it if: you regularly charge power-hungry laptops (like a MacBook Pro) and want sustained high wattage—go 70W/96W/140W instead.
Key Specs at a Glance
- Rated output: 40W (with dynamic boost up to 60W max) Apple+1
- Port: Single USB-C Best Buy Canada
- Compatibility: Works with USB-C devices (cable sold separately) Apple
- Model: MGKN4AM/A Apple+1
What “Dynamic Power (60W Max)” Actually Means
Most chargers advertise one number (like 60W) and try to hold it when possible. Apple’s approach here is different:
- It’s designed as a 40W-class charger, but it can burst higher (up to 60W) when the device and charging protocol allow it. The Verge+1
- That burst behavior is tied to newer charging standards (often discussed as USB Power Delivery 3.2 with AVS) which can improve efficiency and manage heat during fast charging. The Verge+1
In simple terms: you get “bigger-charger benefits” in a pocket-sized brick, because it doesn’t need to sustain max output all the time. Apple+1
Charging Performance: Who Gets the Biggest Benefit?
iPhone 17 fast charging (main reason this exists)
Apple specifically highlights this adapter for iPhone 17 models, claiming up to 50% in around 20 minutes (with the right conditions/cable). Apple+2Apple+2
Independent testing coverage has also reported results in that ballpark when using this charger. LTT Labs
iPhone Air
Apple also mentions iPhone Air reaching 50% in around 30 minutes with this adapter. Apple+1
iPad, AirPods, Apple Watch, and “normal” USB-C stuff
Retail listings commonly position it as compatible across Apple’s USB-C ecosystem (iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch/AirPods charging accessories), which makes it an easy one-brick solution for many people. B&H Photo Video+1
MacBooks (light use)
A big advantage of the 60W max headroom is flexibility: it can top up smaller laptops or handle lighter loads better than a standard 20W/30W brick—though it’s not meant to replace a high-watt sustained laptop charger for heavy work. The Verge+1
Design & Everyday Use
Compact, travel-friendly
Apple’s pitch is basically: stop carrying a huge brick. This adapter aims to feel closer to a phone charger than a laptop charger—easy for pockets, tech pouches, and daily carry. Apple+1
One USB-C port (simple, but not “multi-device”)
You get a single USB-C port. That’s great for max performance to one device, but if you want to charge two devices at once, consider a dual-port charger (Apple 35W dual USB-C or a good GaN alternative).
Cable not included
You’ll need a USB-C to USB-C cable (or USB-C to Lightning if you’re charging older iPhones). Apple notes the cable is sold separately. Apple
40W Dynamic vs 20W / 30W / 35W / 67W: Which Should You Choose?
- 20W: cheapest “good enough” option for basic iPhone charging, but not the best for newer fast-charge peaks.
- 30W/35W: good midrange (especially if you need dual ports), but you may miss the newer dynamic/AVS-style benefits that Apple is leaning into for iPhone 17 peak charging. TechRadar+1
- This 40W Dynamic (60W Max): best fit for people who want small size + fastest iPhone 17 wired charging + flexible power for iPad and occasional laptop use. Apple+1
- 67W/70W+: better if you primarily charge laptops and want sustained higher wattage.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very compact for the charging speed it can deliver Apple+1
- Built for iPhone 17 fast charging (Apple’s stated 50% claim) Apple+1
- Extra headroom (up to 60W max) helps with broader USB-C use The Verge+1
Cons
- Single port only (no multi-device convenience)
- Cable sold separately Apple
- Not the best pick for sustained laptop-heavy workloads The Verge+1
Who Should Buy This Charger?
You’ll love the Apple 40W Dynamic Power Adapter if you are:
- An iPhone 17 owner who wants the best wired fast charge Apple is targeting Apple+1
- A traveler who wants one small premium charger for phone + iPad + accessories
- Someone upgrading from an old 5W/12W brick and wanting a modern USB-C setup
You can skip it if you need:
- Multi-device charging from one brick (look at dual-port GaN)
- Sustained laptop power for heavy tasks (70W+)
FAQ
Does it work with non-Apple devices?
Yes—Apple states it’s compatible with USB-C–enabled devices. Your device will draw what it supports. Apple
Will it charge a MacBook?
It can charge or top up some laptops, but it’s primarily positioned around faster charging for iPhone/iPad and compact convenience rather than sustained high-watt laptop use. The Verge+1
Do I need a special cable for fastest charging?
Use a quality USB-C to USB-C cable (and make sure your device supports fast charging). The cable is not included. Apple
Final Thoughts
The Apple 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max is a smart pick for people who want serious charging speed without carrying a big brick. It’s especially compelling if you’re on iPhone 17, where Apple explicitly markets the fastest wired charging results with this adapter. Apple+2TechRadar+2
If your daily carry is iPhone + iPad (and maybe occasional laptop top-ups), this is one of the cleanest “one charger” solutions Apple sells right now.
