The new MacBook Pro with the M5 chip is currently causing controversy in Europe. While Apple customers in the US and other regions continue to receive the notebook with a charger, the European version lacks one. Apple cites environmental goals and new EU regulations, but many see this primarily as a disadvantage for European buyers.
The MacBook Pro has been considered one of the most powerful notebooks on the market for years. With the new M5 chip, Apple aims to once again set standards in performance, efficiency, and design. At the same time, an important detail in the box is changing, attracting attention: The 14-inch MacBook Pro will be sold in Europe without a charger. Only the USB-C to MagSafe 3 cable is included. Anyone requiring a power adapter must purchase one separately.
No charger included for Europe
According to the Apple Online Store, the new 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M5 chip no longer includes a charger in European countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Norway, Ireland, and the UK. Outside of Europe, such as the US, the device still comes with Apple's 70W USB-C power adapter.
The price of the MacBook Pro remains virtually identical, regardless of the package contents. Buyers in Europe who don't have a compatible charger must purchase the power adapter separately. In Germany, the 70W USB-C power adapter currently costs €65.
Apple's reasoning: Environment and regulation
Apple explains the removal of the charger with environmental goals. Eliminating power adapters from the packaging is intended to help reduce packaging volume and transport emissions, as well as the amount of e-waste. The company emphasizes that many users already own a compatible charger—for example, from older MacBooks, iPads, or iPhones with USB-C.
In addition, the European Union has introduced new regulations to reduce electronic waste and promote standardized charging ports. Devices should be sold without unnecessary accessories wherever possible in order to reuse existing power adapters. With this change, Apple is also following the guidelines of the European market.
Criticism of the decision
Despite the reasoning behind it, the decision has been met with criticism. Many see Apple's approach as a cost-shifting move to buyers. Those without a compatible charger have to pay extra—and thus effectively pay more than customers outside Europe.
Critics also note that the environmental impact may be smaller than Apple claims. If a large portion of customers order an additional power adapter, further environmental impacts will be created through packaging, shipping, and production.
Another point of criticism concerns the inconsistency: While buyers in the US and other regions continue to receive a complete set, European customers have to upgrade themselves. This causes confusion and raises questions about equal treatment.
Accessories still included
Despite the lack of a power adapter, the European MacBook Pro still comes with a USB-C to MagSafe 3 cable. This maintains fast charging functionality, provided a suitable power adapter is available. Apple officially recommends the 70W power adapter, which is sold separately.
Apple is testing a new approach: Will other devices soon also be able to run without a charger?
This move could signal that Apple will also ditch chargers for other product lines in the future. This approach has already been implemented for iPhones and Apple Watches in recent years. If the approach proves successful with the MacBook Pro, it's conceivable that the MacBook Air or other models will also be sold without power adapters in the future.
A powerful MacBook with controversial delivery contents
The new MacBook Pro with the M5 chip delivers significant performance improvements and technical advancements. It also marks another step in Apple's strategy to reduce its environmental footprint and meet EU regulatory requirements. For buyers in Europe, however, this means that the charger is no longer included in the box. Those without a suitable power adapter will have to pay additional costs. This approach aligns with Apple's long-term environmental goals – but continues to divide opinions, especially among European customers who expect the MacBook Pro to be a premium product but are forced to forgo an essential accessory. (Image: Apple)
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