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Apple 20 Watt USB-C Power Adaptor

Why does Apple's 20 Watt USB-C Power Adaptor say its 5V output is 3 amps? Shouldn't 20W/5V=4 amps? I assume I am missing something about Apple's or USB's power protocols.

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Posted on Dec 24, 2022 10:27 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Dec 24, 2022 10:37 AM

fourwheelcycle wrote:

Why does Apple's 20 Watt USB-C Power Adaptor say its 5V output is 3 amps? Shouldn't 20W/5V=4 amps? I assume I am missing something about Apple's or USB's power protocols.


20W can provide a maximum of either 5V3A or 9V2.22A.


Apple USB-C power adapter volts, amps - Apple Community



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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Dec 24, 2022 10:37 AM in response to fourwheelcycle

fourwheelcycle wrote:

Why does Apple's 20 Watt USB-C Power Adaptor say its 5V output is 3 amps? Shouldn't 20W/5V=4 amps? I assume I am missing something about Apple's or USB's power protocols.


20W can provide a maximum of either 5V3A or 9V2.22A.


Apple USB-C power adapter volts, amps - Apple Community



Dec 24, 2022 10:38 AM in response to fourwheelcycle

The 20W Power Adapter has a maximum power output of 20W - but not necessarily at 5V.


Apple’s 20W USB-C Power Adapter supports USB PD (Power Delivery) - with which the Power Adapter can use a higher voltage with devices that support USB PD. This 20W Power Adapter is also capable of 2.22A @9V = 20W


With devices that only support the standard USB 5V bus voltage, the maximum power output is 15W.

Apple 20 Watt USB-C Power Adaptor

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