Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max has quietly gained one of its most practical upgrades yet: faster charging speeds. In detailed compatibility tests published by ChargerLAB, the flagship iPhone peaked at around 36W when paired with Apple’s latest 40W Dynamic Power Adapter and several existing MacBook chargers. This is a step up from last year’s iPhone 16 Pro Max, which topped out near 30W, and it means shorter charging times without requiring an unusual setup.
While Apple did not highlight the exact wattage during the iPhone 17 launch, its website now confirms that users can achieve 0-50% in about 20 minutes when using a 40W or higher USB-C adapter. That figure is noticeably faster than the 30-minute half-charge claim Apple gave for iPhone 16 Pro Max, and it demonstrates how Apple’s updated charging system takes advantage of the USB-C standard in a more efficient way.
ChargerLAB’s testing covered 15 Apple adapters, ranging from the compact 18W plug to the large 140W MacBook Pro brick. The results showed that the phone itself determines how much power to draw, so any adapter above 40W with the right Power Delivery profile can reach the new 36W peak. This includes Apple’s 61W, 67W, 70W, 96W, and 140W chargers. In other words, if you already own a MacBook charger, you may not need to buy a new plug specifically for iPhone fast charging.
Wireless charging also received a boost. Using Apple’s MagSafe puck, the iPhone 17 Pro Max managed to pull up to 32W, a significant increase compared to earlier models. That narrows the gap between wired and wireless charging, though wired connections still reach the maximum 36W and remain the fastest option for quick top-ups.
Apple’s 40W Dynamic Power Adapter plays a central role here. It supports USB PD 3.2 AVS (Adjustable Voltage Supply), which allows the phone to negotiate more precise voltage and current levels. This system enables short bursts of higher power that help the phone reach 50% faster, without putting too much stress on the battery during a full charge. For everyday use, that translates to more efficient “splash charging” sessions where just 15-20 minutes on the cable can make the difference before heading out.
For buyers deciding which charger to use, Apple’s 20W plug still works well for overnight or slow desk charging, but it will not unlock the higher speeds. A 30W adapter offers an improvement but still falls short of the new maximum. The most reliable choice is Apple’s new 40W Dynamic Power Adapter, although owners of recent MacBook chargers already have everything needed. Just as important is the cable: a certified USB-C cable with proper power delivery support is essential to avoid bottlenecks.
ChargerLAB’s findings confirm Apple’s own claims and provide useful clarity for users considering accessories. The new maximum of 36W is not tied to a single charger, but rather to the iPhone’s internal charging system. Overbuying on wattage will not increase that peak, though higher-wattage adapters do ensure that the phone can consistently reach its ceiling. Wireless users, meanwhile, benefit from the MagSafe upgrade but should keep in mind that wired remains the faster and more reliable method.
