Hi, I have a new MacBook Air M5 with the original Apple 30W charger. When charging, I feel a very slight tingling sensation on the aluminum body when sliding my fingers over it. It disappears when I unplug the charger. The MacBook works normally otherwise. Has anyone experienced this? Is it normal or could there be an electrical problem?
MacBook Air 13″, macOS 27.0
The phenomenon is known as Electrovibration.
It’s caused by your MBA+cable+power adaptor not having a chassis-ground (a.k.a. Shield Drains) connected to earth.
This is normal expected behavior and safe.
One way it can be eliminated is by using a 3-wire (L + N + G) Power Adaptor Extension Cable input to your Power Adaptor. (assuming that the 3-wire “wall” receptacle is properly wired)
Power Adapter Extension Cable - Apple
The phenomenon is known as Electrovibration.
It’s caused by your MBA+cable+power adaptor not having a chassis-ground (a.k.a. Shield Drains) connected to earth.
This is normal expected behavior and safe.
One way it can be eliminated is by using a 3-wire (L + N + G) Power Adaptor Extension Cable input to your Power Adaptor. (assuming that the 3-wire “wall” receptacle is properly wired)
Power Adapter Extension Cable - Apple
I contacted Apple Support directly, explained the situation, and was told that there is no problem with my MacBook and that I should not worry. They also sent me their official article about Apple products and static electricity for further information.
I trust the information provided by Apple Support regarding my case. Thank you for your opinions.
I contacted Apple Support directly, explained the situation, and was told that there is no problem with my MacBook and that I should not worry. They also sent me their official article about Apple products and static electricity for further information.
I trust the information provided by Apple Support regarding my case. Thank you for your opinions.
FWIW, I’m using my own MBP powered by a genuine 2-wire Apple Power Adaptor and USB-C cable plugged in to a fully-validated as-correct 120 VAC NEMA-20 outlet.
I feel the effect when the power adaptor is connected and it immediately stops when the adaptor is unplugged (or the cable disconnected from the MBP).
The effect is small — probably unnoticeable to most including me in “normal usage” — but it’s definitely THERE and going “on” and “off” with the power adaptor connections / disconnections.
The effect is also felt only on the metallic chassis; there is no perceived effect felt on the MBP’s touchpad or display screen.
The conditions for me at-present are likely near-perfect to produce the effect. My hands and fingers are dry, the indoor conditioned air is cool, the relative humidity is low, the MBP is on an insulated bench, and I’m personally fully isolated from any conductor to “Earth.”
I do not think this is normal. Have the computer examined by an authorized service center.
This user reported a recent "MagSafe 3 firmware update" may be applicable:
MagSafe 3 firmware update improved MacBook Air M4 aluminum case tingling
Personally I am not aware of such an update, and am skeptical it would have any effect, but read for yourself.
An Apple Community Moderator replied to that Discussion, and is likely to reply to this one as well. You would be wise to heed that advice either way.
I have only perceived that sensation when using Macs connected to 230V mains power. Never with US / North American utility power. For a boringly detailed technical explanation refer to this Discussion: Sensation on Macbook.
MacBook Air M5 aluminum body causes tingling sensation when charging
