iPhone 17 Pro Max: Charging performance, power adapters and cables tested

With the iPhone 17 Pro Max, Apple is taking the next step in the development of its high-end smartphones. In addition to the camera, chip, and display, USB-C charging is also receiving a major upgrade. A recent test shows for the first time which Apple chargers deliver which performance – and how much faster the iPhone 17 Pro Max actually charges compared to its predecessor.

USB-C is standard on the iPhone 17 Pro Max and offers more flexibility – at least in theory. In practice, charging speed depends heavily on the charger and cable used. A recently published test by ChargerLAB provides the first clear overview of how various Apple USB-C power adapters affect charging performance. This makes it possible to understand how efficiently the iPhone 17 Pro Max is powered and which combinations make the most sense.

USB-C with up to 36 watts charging power

In ChargerLAB 's test, various Apple USB-C power adapters were tested with the iPhone 17 Pro Max, ranging from 18 watts to 140 watts. The maximum charging speed achieved was around 36 watts. Interestingly, several power adapters achieved this performance, including:

the 40 W dynamic power supply with a maximum of 60 W
the 61W USB-C power adapter
the 67W USB-C power adapter
the 70W USB-C power adapter
the 96W USB-C power adapter
the 140W USB-C power adapter

Although some power adapters could deliver significantly more power, the iPhone 17 Pro Max only draws around 36 watts – more doesn't seem to be technically possible. In comparison, the iPhone 16 Pro Max draws around 30 watts, making it noticeably slower. The improvement in the iPhone 17 Pro Max is therefore measurable.

iPhone 17 Pro with similar charging performance

In addition to the iPhone 17 Pro Max, the iPhone 17 Pro should also achieve the same charging performance. The test results provide evidence of this, although no separate figures for the smaller model have been published. In practice, this results in comparable charging performance for both Pro models of the new iPhone generation.

50 % batteries in 20 minutes – with the right power supply

Apple itself states that the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max can be charged to 50% of the battery in about 20 minutes using a compatible charger. The recommended option is the 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with a maximum output of 60W.

By comparison, the same charging process for the previous iPhone 16 series models took about 30 minutes. This clearly shows that charging times have been reduced with the new generation – assuming the technology is right.

Cable choice influences charging speed

A powerful power adapter alone isn't enough for fast charging. The USB-C cable used is also crucial. Not every cable is capable of transmitting high currents safely and efficiently. Cheap or simple versions often don't deliver enough power, thus slowing down charging speeds. If you want to play it safe, use the included Apple USB-C cable or a certified cable with USB Power Delivery (USB PD).

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Availability of the Dynamic power supply

The tested 40W Dynamic Power Supply with up to 60W maximum power is currently not available everywhere. It is available in select regions, including the USA, Canada, China, Japan, Mexico, Taiwan, and the Philippines. The power supply may also be available in other countries through indirect channels or third-party retailers, but is not officially offered there.

iPhone 17 Pro Max: Efficiency boost thanks to new charging performance

The iPhone 17 Pro Max benefits significantly from the upgrade. With a maximum charging speed of around 36 watts, it outperforms the iPhone 16 Pro Max and achieves noticeably faster charging times. The battery can be charged to approximately 50 watts in just 20 minutes – provided a compatible charger such as the 40W Dynamic Power Adapter and a suitable USB-C cable are used. This makes it clear: If you want to fully utilize the charging potential of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, you should focus on quality not only in your smartphone but also in your accessories. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Hadrian)