Hey Apple, When Are You Gonna Fix Your Broken Chargers?

Dear Apple, We Could Use Some Better Chargers

It is no big secret that Apple's chargers suck. Whether it be for the iPhone, iPad, or the MacBook. The cheap cables tend to fray a break quite easily. This is a shame, because the hardware in the brand name product is truly superior to many other charging solutions. Like many others, I refuse to continue to repurchase a $20-$30 cable every couple months. A simple re-design of the ends of their cords could save a lot of trouble.

Apple is a great brand, don't get me wrong. I have an iPhone, an iPad, and plan on getting a MacBook in the near future. They have a way of creating demand for the newest products they create, even if they are very similar to their last model. Even the feel of their stores is unrivaled by their competition. They just have one major flaw in their charging cords.

Apple is probably doing this intentionally. This cord probably costs them $2-$3 to make. By selling them at such a higher price, this improves their margin drastically. This is repeated with every cable you purchase, meaning more often in the cords that do not last very long. There are plenty of die-hard Apple fans who will only use Apple products, therefore they will keep paying these absurd prices. The company thrives from people like them. If you are one of those people, I wish you luck.

If you are like me, I would recommend purchasing a different cable. Not just any charging cable, because those $5 charging cables at the gas station probably won't last very long either. For less than $20 you can get a charging cable of good quality that will last a lot longer than the standard Apple charger. Researching the products and reading reviews are great ways to vet these products and find ones that are reliable.

For example, the Keutek 3.0 magnetic charging cable has a stronger cable, reinforced with a braided coating and heavy duty connecting end to avoid frays and splits. It also has 3 amp charging capabilities to outperform standard charging connections. Just plug it into a 3 amp charging block, and connect it to your device and you can charge your phone in as little as 20 minutes.

But let's get back to Apple. Although I do not have a MacBook yet, I have used them and have plenty of friends with them. These are said to be among the worst of the chargers that Apple makes. What is a laptop, or a Macbook for that matter? It is a portable computer, correct? Then shouldn't the cable be designed for portability as well? This means easy to pack into a bag and travel with. Well unfortunately, with the thin design of the cords, these too tend to fray and break like the iPhone charging cables. A MagSafe charger isn't really all that safe when the cables fray and expose wires is it? To put the icing on the cake, these chargers aren't $20-$30 like the iPhone chargers. Try $80 for any of their MacBook chargers.

So if I haven't already made this clear: Apple, you have some work to do. While there are some alternatives available, you are known for making great products. Why not do some to make the accessories just as good. I guess until then, I will keep using my Keutek 3.0 magnetic charging cable.

Sincerely,

A loyal, but irritated customer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Apple chargers break so easily?
Apple chargers often wear out due to their thin cable design and frequent bending near the connector. Daily use, coiling the cable tightly, and pulling it from the cord instead of the plug can speed up fraying. While Apple’s minimalist design looks sleek, it sacrifices durability. Using cable protectors or avoiding sharp bends can extend the life of your charger.

Does Apple warranty cover broken chargers?
Apple’s standard one-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects but not physical damage from wear and tear. If your charger stops working due to a defect, Apple may replace it. However, fraying or damage from misuse is usually not covered. AppleCare+ may offer extended coverage, but accidental damage is still limited. Always check your warranty status before buying a new charger.

Are third-party Apple chargers safe to use?
Yes, third-party chargers can be safe if they are certified under Apple’s MFi (Made for iPhone/iPad) program. Certified chargers meet Apple’s safety and performance standards, reducing the risk of overheating, slow charging, or device damage. Avoid cheap, uncertified knockoffs, as they can pose fire hazards or harm your battery. Investing in a reliable third-party charger is often a cost-effective alternative to Apple’s own cables.

How can I make my Apple charger last longer?
To extend your charger’s lifespan, avoid pulling the cable when unplugging—always grip the plug. Store the cable loosely without tight bends or sharp twists. Use cable protectors or sleeves near the ends to prevent fraying. Keeping the charger away from extreme heat and moisture also helps. Treating your Apple charger with care can add months, even years, to its usability.

Will Apple improve the durability of their chargers soon?
Apple hasn’t officially announced plans for significantly more durable chargers, but they have slowly improved cable materials over the years. For instance, newer USB-C to Lightning cables feature a braided option with better longevity. Many users hope Apple will adopt sturdier designs as standard. Until then, using protective accessories or switching to certified third-party cables remains the best solution.