How can you spot a fake Apple Macbook charger?
Released in 2008, the Macbook has become an indispensable tool of modern technology. Combining performance and innovation, it has been adopted by a huge number of people. Used daily by millions of people, it's important that your MacBook is accompanied by a good charger. Unfortunately, Apple chargers are replicated by counterfeiters whose sole aim is to make a profit, making them dangerous. There are, however, tips on how to spot a fake Apple MacBook charger from the real thing.
The danger of counterfeit chargers:
Apple designs and manufactures its chargers in strict compliance with government safety standards.
Counterfeit chargers are created purely for efficiency. It is therefore unlikely that they are made to the same standards. This lack of safety can cause serious damage, as they can overheat, catch fire or deliver a severe electric shock. What's more, they are extremely harmful to your connected devices and risk damaging them.
Charger packaging :
First of all, take a close look at the Apple Charger box. Look for the MFi badge on the packaging. This logo indicates that the charger has been built to Apple's rigorous standards.
Some replica factories do not put it on the magazine packaging. If you do not see this logo, you can be sure that you are dealing with a replica product.
Also check the serial number on the Apple charger packaging. However, don't rely solely on this serial number, as it is sometimes copied by crooks.
The charging unit :
Carefully inspect the charge pack and, more specifically, the information on it. In particular, look for spelling mistakes and extra spaces. These are signs that the product is not authentic. Apple is a world-renowned brand, so it's impossible to imagine them making this type of mistake.
You should also see the CE mark, but don't rely on this alone, as it can be easily copied.
Look at the charging unit. On it, you'll see several words: "Designed by Apple in California" followed by "Assembled in China" or "Assembled in Vietnam".
Above, an image of a genuine Apple charging unit
Lightning cable :
Pay particular attention to the cable of your Apple charger. Its many details tell you a lot about the authenticity of the product.
The tips of the charger should be smooth and rounded. Counterfeit chargers tend to be rough and unpleasant to the touch. What's more, counterfeits often have squarer, uneven finishes.
Also look at the colour of the end of the Lightning cable. The insert should be grey or metallic. If the insert is any other colour, you are most likely looking at a replica Apple charger.
How to check if your charger is genuine :
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Plug the charger into a power socket and connect your MacBook to it.
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Hold down the OPTION key and click on the Apple logo in the top left-hand corner of your screen, then on SYSTEM INFORMATION.
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Then click on POWER in the left-hand column.
If your charger is genuine, the manufacturer "Apple Inc" will be displayed.
Secure the purchase of your second-hand Apple charger with Obvy:
If you want to buy your Apple charger on resale platforms between individuals, we advise you to use Obvy to secure your transaction.
Obvy is a secure payment platform that helps you avoid the scams that are common in transactions between private individuals. When you make a transaction on Obvy, the funds are only credited to your seller when the buyer certifies that the goods purchased are in order. If this is not the case, you are automatically refunded and the item is returned to the seller.
By using Obvy to carry out transactions between private individuals, you can also benefit from payment in several instalments.