iPad charger wattage

The charger block (18w) I use for my iPad Air (Gen4) gets very hot when connected. Is this normal?


Is a higher wattage — maybe 30w or 60w — any more efficient? Would they harm the iPad in any way?


What if I use a longer cable — say, 6’ or 10’?


Really confused here…. Thanks.

iPad Air, iPadOS 15

Posted on Jul 22, 2022 2:42 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jul 22, 2022 3:20 PM

Your iPad Power Adapter may become very warm during charging; this is entirely normal.


You can safely use a higher wattage USB-PD (Power Delivery) Power Adapter if you choose to do so. The iPad will still charge at its maximum supported charge rate (dependent upon model, up to 18-20W) from the connected Power Adapter; drawing less power than the Power Adapter is capable will cause the charger to run much cooler - although overall power “efficiency” may not necessarily improve. Ensure that the Power Adapter supports USB-PD to ensure compatibility; Apple does not support other proprietary charging standards - such as QC (Quick Charge).


Due to greater circuit resistance, longer power cables require thicker-gauge conductors to maintain the same power transfer. Always use good quality cables from well known manufacturers.

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jul 22, 2022 3:20 PM in response to TscienceK

Your iPad Power Adapter may become very warm during charging; this is entirely normal.


You can safely use a higher wattage USB-PD (Power Delivery) Power Adapter if you choose to do so. The iPad will still charge at its maximum supported charge rate (dependent upon model, up to 18-20W) from the connected Power Adapter; drawing less power than the Power Adapter is capable will cause the charger to run much cooler - although overall power “efficiency” may not necessarily improve. Ensure that the Power Adapter supports USB-PD to ensure compatibility; Apple does not support other proprietary charging standards - such as QC (Quick Charge).


Due to greater circuit resistance, longer power cables require thicker-gauge conductors to maintain the same power transfer. Always use good quality cables from well known manufacturers.

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iPad charger wattage

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