Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup continues to refine performance across hardware and software, but charging speed and compatibility remain important for users. A new charging test from ChargerLAB on YouTube provides a detailed look at how the iPhone 17 performs with Apple’s own adapters as well as popular third-party solutions.
In the video, ChargerLAB tested the iPhone 17 with a wide range of chargers, including Apple’s 20W USB-C adapter, older 18W models, high-wattage MacBook adapters, and certified third-party brands. This real-world approach helps answer whether investing in higher-wattage bricks actually results in faster charging or if Apple’s power management system limits gains.
The results confirmed that the iPhone 17 is fully optimized for Apple’s 20W adapter, reaching expected peak charging speeds. When paired with higher-wattage options like 30W or 35W MacBook chargers, the phone maxed out at around 28W, showing that Apple enforces a ceiling to protect battery health. Third-party USB-C PD chargers also delivered similar results, proving that users are not locked into Apple-only solutions.
ChargerLAB also evaluated wireless charging via MagSafe. As expected, Apple’s official MagSafe charger delivered speeds of up to 15W, while cheaper third-party options were slightly less efficient, likely due to coil alignment and thermal differences. Wired charging remains the fastest and most reliable option, while wireless offers convenience for lighter daily use.
iPhone 17 charging compatibility results (ChargerLAB)
| Category | Examples (Observed peak wattage) |
| Original Apple chargers | Apple 20W (19W), Apple 87W (24.7W), Apple 30W (28.1W), Apple 40W (28.3W), MagSafe (≈12W wired equivalent) |
| Third-party chargers | Samsung 25W (23.2W), Xiaomi 45W (27.2W), UGREEN 140W (27.5W), Huawei 100W (28.0W) |
| High-wattage third-party | Samsung 65W (28.2W), Huawei 120W (28.5W), Lenovo 140W (29.5W) |
| Power banks | Samsung 25W PB (23.6W), Anker 140W (27.5W), UGREEN 145W (27.9W), Aohi 300W (29.8W) |
| Car chargers | UGREEN 45W (27.8W), Samsung 45W (27.8W), Oppo 80W (27.9W), Xiaomi 100W (28.1W) |
| Power stations | Jackery 2000 Pro 2 (27.3W), Ecoflow Delta Max (27.6W), UGREEN GS1200 (28.0W) |
These findings highlight Apple’s balanced charging strategy. Instead of competing with Android devices that boast extreme wattage numbers, Apple prioritizes consistent, thermally safe charging speeds across multiple adapters. For most users, the 20W adapter remains the most practical choice, while higher-wattage chargers are mainly useful for cross-device compatibility with iPads and MacBooks.
By showing that iPhone 17 works well with both official and third-party chargers while capping at 28W, ChargerLAB’s testing reassures buyers that performance is consistent and predictable. This flexibility ensures that users can adopt newer charging standards while continuing to use older adapters they may already own.
