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Do iPhone 14 Models Come With a Charger? The Straight Dope

No, the iPhone 14 models, including the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max, do not come with a power adapter (charger) in the box. This has been Apple’s practice since the iPhone 12 series, driven by environmental concerns and a desire to reduce e-waste.

Diving Deep: What’s in the Box?

So, if you’re unboxing a shiny new iPhone 14, you’ll find the phone itself, a USB-C to Lightning cable, the SIM ejector tool, and some minimal documentation. Notice the key word: USB-C to Lightning. While this cable allows you to connect your iPhone 14 to newer computers and some other devices, it requires a USB-C power adapter to actually charge your phone from a wall outlet.

Apple’s rationale, and it’s one that’s becoming increasingly common across the tech industry, is that most people already own a drawerful of power adapters. Eliminating them from the box reduces the overall size of the packaging, allowing more devices to be shipped at once, theoretically reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. It’s a noble goal, but also conveniently benefits Apple’s bottom line.

Understanding the USB-C to Lightning Cable

The inclusion of a USB-C to Lightning cable is a significant, albeit potentially frustrating, choice. Lightning is Apple’s proprietary connector for charging iPhones, iPads, and AirPods. While the industry standard is rapidly moving towards USB-C, Apple has stubbornly clung to Lightning. However, newer power adapters and many computers now feature USB-C ports. Therefore, to connect your iPhone 14 to one of these devices, you’ll need this cable.

If you’re upgrading from an older iPhone with the traditional USB-A to Lightning cable, your old power adapter will not be directly compatible with the included cable. You’ll need to purchase a new USB-C power adapter separately.

Charging Options: Navigating the Landscape

Fortunately, there are several ways to charge your iPhone 14, even without a bundled charger:

USB-C Power Adapter: This is the most straightforward option. You can purchase a USB-C power adapter from Apple or a third-party manufacturer. Apple sells a 20W USB-C Power Adapter, which is sufficient for fast charging your iPhone. Third-party options often offer more power (and sometimes multiple ports) for charging other devices simultaneously.
Wireless Charging: All iPhone 14 models support MagSafe and Qi wireless charging. MagSafe offers faster wireless charging (up to 15W) and a magnetic attachment for precise alignment. Qi wireless charging is a more universal standard and works with a wider range of wireless chargers, but the charging speed is generally slower (around 7.5W).
Charging via Computer: You can connect your iPhone 14 to a computer with a USB-C port using the included cable to charge it. However, this is usually the slowest charging method.
Power Bank: A portable power bank with a USB-C port is a convenient option for charging on the go.

Ethical Considerations: The Environmental Impact

While Apple frames the removal of the charger as an environmentally conscious decision, the reality is more complex. While reducing packaging and e-waste is undoubtedly positive, it also forces consumers to potentially purchase additional chargers, further contributing to the problem if they already own functional chargers with USB-A ports. This creates a grey area where the consumer must assess their personal environmental impact versus the manufacturer’s claims.

Making the Right Choice for You

Before you buy an iPhone 14, consider your existing charging ecosystem. Do you already have a USB-C power adapter? Do you prefer wireless charging? Understanding your needs will help you make the most informed decision about which charging method works best for you. The charger situation isn’t just about money; it’s about figuring out what is convenient and suits your lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About iPhone 14 Chargers

Here are some frequently asked questions to provide additional clarity:

1. What kind of charger do I need for the iPhone 14?

You need a USB-C power adapter to use the included USB-C to Lightning cable. Apple sells a 20W USB-C Power Adapter, but any reputable third-party USB-C power adapter will work.

2. Does the iPhone 14 support fast charging?

Yes, all iPhone 14 models support fast charging. Using a 20W or higher USB-C power adapter, you can charge your iPhone 14 to around 50% in about 30 minutes.

3. Can I use my old iPhone charger with the iPhone 14?

If your old iPhone charger has a USB-A port, it won’t directly work with the included USB-C to Lightning cable. You’ll need a USB-C power adapter. However, you can purchase a USB-A to Lightning cable separately.

4. Is the MagSafe charger included with the iPhone 14?

No, the MagSafe charger is sold separately.

5. How much does a USB-C power adapter cost?

Apple’s 20W USB-C Power Adapter typically costs around $19. Third-party options can range in price, depending on the brand and features.

6. What is the difference between MagSafe and Qi wireless charging?

MagSafe offers faster wireless charging (up to 15W) and magnetic alignment. Qi wireless charging is a more universal standard with slower charging speeds (around 7.5W).

7. Can I use a higher wattage charger with my iPhone 14?

Yes, you can use a higher wattage USB-C power adapter with your iPhone 14. The iPhone will only draw the amount of power it can handle.

8. Are there any risks to using a third-party charger?

Using a low-quality or uncertified third-party charger can potentially damage your iPhone or pose a safety risk. It’s always best to choose reputable brands and look for certifications like MFi (Made for iPhone/iPad/iPod).

9. Does the removal of the charger affect the price of the iPhone 14?

While Apple hasn’t explicitly stated that the price of the iPhone 14 is lower due to the removal of the charger, it’s generally believed that this contributes to cost savings for the company.

10. What does the “USB-C to Lightning” cable actually do?

The USB-C to Lightning cable allows you to connect your iPhone 14 to devices with USB-C ports, such as newer computers and USB-C power adapters. This enables charging, data transfer, and syncing.

11. Why did Apple stop including chargers with iPhones?

Apple cites environmental concerns as the primary reason for removing chargers and EarPods from the iPhone box. They argue that it reduces e-waste and allows for smaller packaging, leading to a lower carbon footprint during shipping.

12. Will all future iPhones come without chargers?

It’s highly likely that Apple will continue this trend for future iPhones and potentially other devices, solidifying the “bring your own charger” model. Furthermore, with the imminent move to USB-C charging on future iPhones due to EU regulations, the Lightning cable may eventually be phased out altogether.

By understanding your charging needs and exploring the available options, you can ensure a smooth transition with your new iPhone 14, even without a charger in the box.