If you’re about to unbox a new Apple Watch, you might be wondering: does apple watch come with a charger? The short answer is yes, but there’s an important detail. Every new Apple Watch includes a charging cable in the box, though the wall adapter may be sold separately. This change, which Apple made a few years back, has caused some confusion for new buyers.
This article will clear up exactly what you get in the box with your new Apple Watch. We’ll cover the different types of chargers, what you need to provide yourself, and your best options for getting a complete charging setup. Let’s get started.
Does Apple Watch Come With A Charger
To give you the most direct answer, yes, a charging cable is included with every new Apple Watch purchase. However, the “charger” is technically two parts: the magnetic charging cable or puck, and the wall power adapter that plugs into an outlet. Since late 2020, Apple has removed the wall adapter from the box for environmental reasons. So, you receive the essential cable, but not the block that goes into your wall.
This policy applies across the entire Apple Watch lineup. Whether you buy the latest Apple Watch Series, the SE model, or the premium Ultra, the contents are consistent. The focus is on reducing electronic waste, assuming many users already have compatible adapters.
What Exactly Is In The Box
When you open the packaging for a brand new Apple Watch, here are the items you will find:
- The Apple Watch itself.
- The correct size Sport Band or other selected band.
- A Magnetic Charging Cable (USB-C or older USB-A depending on model).
- Some documentation and paperwork.
Noticeably absent is the small square power adapter. If this is your first Apple device or you’re upgrading from very old accessories, you’ll need to source one separately. It’s a good idea to check what type of cable your model includes, as newer ones use USB-C.
Evolution Of Apple Watch Charging Cables
The design of the included cable has evolved. Understanding which one you have is key to knowing what adapter you need.
The USB-A Magnetic Charging Cable
Older Apple Watch models, roughly before 2021, came bundled with a cable that had a standard USB-A connector on the end. This plug fits into the older, rectangular USB ports found on many computers, car chargers, and older wall adapters. If you have an older iPhone power block (from before the iPhone 12), it likely has a USB-A port.
The USB-C Magnetic Charging Cable
Newer Apple Watches now include a cable with a USB-C connector. This is the same oval-shaped plug used by modern MacBooks, iPads, and recent iPhone charging cables. Apple made this shift to align with it’s broader move to the USB-C standard. If you’ve bought a recent iPhone or iPad, your existing power adapter probably has a USB-C port.
Identifying Your Cable Type
Not sure which cable you have? It’s simple to check. Look at the end of the cable that does *not* have the magnetic puck. If the plug is wide and rectangular, it’s USB-A. If it’s smaller and oval-shaped with rounded edges, it’s USB-C. Knowing this will tell you what kind of power adapter you need to buy or use.
What You Need To Supply Yourself
Since the wall adapter isn’t included, you are responsible for providing a compatible power source. You have several reliable and safe options.
Using An Existing Apple Power Adapter
The easiest solution is to use a power adapter you already own. Many households have several from past Apple products.
- Any USB-C Apple power adapter (like the 20W from a recent iPhone) works perfectly with a USB-C Apple Watch cable.
- An older Apple USB-A power adapter (the small 5W or 12W cube) will work with an older USB-A Apple Watch cable.
- You can also use the larger power adapters that came with MacBooks, as long as you have the correct cable.
Just ensure the adapter’s wattage is appropriate. Apple Watch chargers don’t require much power, so even a small 5W adapter is sufficient, though charging might be slower.
Purchasing A Separate Apple Power Adapter
If you don’t have a compatible adapter, you can buy one directly from Apple or from authorized retailers. Apple sells a 20W USB-C Power Adapter that is a great, future-proof choice. It will charge your Apple Watch quickly and can also fast-charge recent iPhones and iPads. While it’s an extra purchase, it’s a versatile accessory for all your devices.
Third-Party Charging Options
The market is full of high-quality third-party power adapters from reputable brands like Anker, Belkin, and UGREEN. When choosing one, look for these features:
- MFi Certification (Made for iPhone/iPad) is a good indicator of quality and safety for USB-A adapters.
- USB-C Power Delivery (PD) support for efficient charging with USB-C cables.
- Brand reputation and positive user reviews.
Avoid extremly cheap, no-name adapters from unknown sources. They can be poorly built, potentially damaging your devices or posing a safety risk.
Complete Charging Setup Scenarios
Let’s walk through what a full charging setup looks like for different users.
First-Time Apple User
If this is your first Apple product, you’ll need to buy a power adapter. Your best bet is to purchase a 20W USB-C Power Adapter when you buy your Apple Watch. Since new Watches come with a USB-C cable, this adapter will work right out of the box. It’s a simple, one-time purchase.
Upgrading From An Older Apple Watch
If you’re upgrading, check your old cable. If your previous Watch used a USB-A cable and you have a USB-A adapter, you can still use that adapter. However, your new Watch likely has a USB-C cable. In this case, you have two choices: use the new cable with a USB-C adapter (which you may need to buy), or continue using your old USB-A cable and adapter with your new Watch. The magnetic puck end is universal.
The Multi-Device Charging Station
Many users prefer a dedicated charging station. These stands or pads often have a spot for your Apple Watch, iPhone, and AirPods. Most of these stations require you to provide your own Apple Watch cable, which you then thread through the stand. They typically include a power adapter for the station itself, but you use your included Apple Watch cable. This is a neat and organized solution that utilizes the cable from your box.
Fast Charging Capabilities
Starting with the Apple Watch Series 7, Apple introduced fast charging. This feature allows compatible models to charge from 0% to 80% in about 45 minutes. To use fast charging, you need a specific setup.
Requirements For Fast Charging
Not every charger will enable the fast charging feature. You need:
- An Apple Watch Series 7 or later (including Series 8, Series 9, Ultra, and Ultra 2).
- The Apple Watch Magnetic Fast Charger to USB-C Cable (this is the specific cable that comes with these newer models).
- A power adapter that is 20W or higher, with USB-C Power Delivery. The Apple 20W USB-C adapter is the recommended minimum.
If you use an older, lower-wattage adapter, the Watch will still charge, but at the standard, slower speed. It’s a nice bonus feature if you have the right gear.
Traveling With Your Apple Watch Charger
Packing for a trip requires a bit of thought. You need to remember both the cable and a wall adapter. A common strategy is to use a small, dual-port USB-C adapter. This way, you can charge your Apple Watch and your iPhone with one wall plug, saving space in your bag. Just pack your Apple Watch cable and your iPhone cable, and you’re set.
Some travelers prefer a compact all-in-one charging puck that has a foldable plug built right in. These are convenient, but remember, they are a separate purchase and not what Apple provides in the box.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Apple Watch Come With A Charging Brick?
No, it does not. Apple stopped including the wall power adapter (the “brick”) in the box with new Apple Watches starting in 2020. You only receive the magnetic charging cable.
Can I Use My IPhone Charger For My Apple Watch?
Yes, you can, but it depends on the cables. If your iPhone charger is a USB-C adapter (like the 20W one from recent iPhones) and your Apple Watch has a USB-C cable, then yes, they are compatible. If you have an older iPhone charger with a USB-A port, you need an Apple Watch cable with a USB-A plug to use it.
What Kind Of Charger Does An Apple Watch Use?
The Apple Watch uses a proprietary magnetic charging cable that snaps to the back of the watch. This cable then needs to be plugged into a USB power source, which can be a wall adapter, a computer USB port, or a port in a car or airplane.
Is The Apple Watch Charger The Same For All Models?
The magnetic puck end that attaches to the watch is the same shape and works with all Apple Watch models, from Series 1 to the latest Ultra. The difference is in the other end of the cable—older ones have USB-A, newer ones have USB-C. The puck itself is universal.
Why Did Apple Stop Including The Power Adapter?
Apple cited environmental reasons, stating that removing the adapter reduces carbon emissions and the use of rare earth materials. The company assumes that many customers already have multiple compatible adapters from previous devices.
Making Your Purchase Decision
When you buy your Apple Watch, factor in the cost of a power adapter if you don’t already have one. Check your drawers for old Apple adapters first. If you need to buy one, consider a 20W USB-C model for its versatility and future-proofing. It will serve your Apple Watch, iPhone, and other gadgets well.
Remember, the core question—does apple watch come with a charger—has a two-part answer. You get the essential magnetic cable, but not the wall plug. Planning for this small extra step ensures your new device powers up without a hitch as soon as you open the box. With the right adapter, you’ll be ready to start using your Apple Watch immediately.