Apple may have removed it, but you can still enjoy MagSafe on the new 2016 MacBook Pros.
I am really disappointed by Apple’s new 2016 MacBook Pro. I liked what they did with the design, and I think the new Touch Bar is interesting, but the incredible increase in price is simply unjustified. We’ve gone from $1299 for the base MacBook Pro, to $1499. The $1499 MacBook Pro isn’t even the ‘real’ new Pro laptop either, as that starts at $1799.
It takes courage to remove a fan-favorite feature
One of the most important features that Apple has taken away with the new 2016 MacBook Pro is MagSafe. MagSafe, as you know, protects your MacBook from suddenly falling off your lap or desk in case an unsuspecting person or pet trips over the charging cable. It does this with the use of a weak magnet on the laptop-side power connector.
MagSafe is a popular feature. Ask them and you’ll find a lot of long-time MacBook owners tell you how their laptop was saved by MagSafe.
With the introduction of USB-C, Apple has removed MagSafe. The reasoning isn’t immediately clear. Apple is a huge company with incredible resources available, so they should have been able to design a charger that can both use USB-C and MagSafe tech.
The solution: third-party MagSafe adapters
This has created a decent opportunity for accessory maker Griffin which launched the BreakSafe Magnetic USB-C Power Cable earlier this year. The BreakSafe cable is specially designed for the 12″ MacBook, but also works just as well with the 2016 MacBook Pros.
BreakSafe consists of two parts: the USB-C cable, and a special adapter that is connected directly to the USB-C port on the MacBook. Whenever there is extra stress on the cable, it detaches quickly – leaving your MacBook safe and sound.
Here’s how it works:
BreakSafe costs a reasonable $40 and is available right now. If you plan on buying one, we recommend you wait a few weeks for Griffin to announce and launch the specific version for 2016 MacBook Pros. I believe the only difference will be of color, though. If that matters to you like it does to me, then wait it out.
Buy BreakSafe – MagSafe charger adapter for 2016 MacBook Pro [Official website]