Fast charging for iPhones and iPads is often overlooked, yet it can make a real difference in daily use. While many users rely on slow, outdated chargers, recent Apple devices support higher speeds that, if used, cut waiting times significantly. Knowing your device's maximum charging rate is the first step to optimizing the experience.
Battery capacities in current models
Battery capacity is measured in milliamp-hours (mAh). Among the iPhone 17 series, the Pro Max reaches 5,088 mAh, while the base iPhone 17 has 3,692 mAh. For iPads, the 11th generation base model has 7,698 mAh, and the powerful 13-inch M5 iPad Pro packs 10,290 mAh. These numbers help understand how quickly a device can absorb energy.
Supported charging speeds: from 20W to 60W
Charging speed is measured in watts. The iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max support up to 40W, while the iPhone Air, due to its thin design, tops out at 20W. For iPads, the base 2025 model reaches 45W, and the M5 iPad Pro goes up to 60W. Unfortunately, Apple stopped including a charger with iPhones starting with the 12 series, and the last brick shipped with the iPhone 11 was a modest 5W. Anyone still using that old charger with an iPhone 17 wastes precious hours. Even with iPads, the included brick is only 20W, far from the maximum supported.
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How to choose the right charger
To take advantage of fast charging, you need a power adapter compatible with USB Power Delivery (USB-PD). Companies like Anker, Ugreen, and Satechi offer excellent chargers with power outputs up to 100W or more. Make sure your brick delivers at least the device's maximum wattage. For an iPhone 17 Pro Max, look for a 40W or higher charger. The difference is noticeable: with a proper charger, a 30-minute session can bring the battery from 20% to 80%.
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Compared to other manufacturers, the OnePlus 15 supports 120W charging, far beyond Apple's offerings. However, cooling technologies and battery chemistry influence design choices. Apple prioritizes efficiency and longevity, but that does not excuse the absence of a suitable charger in the box.
In a tech landscape where even Uber paused European launches to adapt to regulations, Apple users must adapt to a fragmented charging ecosystem. Investing in a good charger is a necessary step to unlock your device's full potential.
For technical details, consult the Wikipedia page on USB Power Delivery.
Source: https://www.engadget.com/2205909/fastest-charging-speed-ipad-iphone-port
