Apple’s New M5 MacBook Pro Ships Without a Charger in Europe—Here’s Why

Apple’s new M5 MacBook Pro, launched yesterday (alongside the M5 iPad Pro and Vision Pro) now ships without a power adapter in most European countries — including the U.K., Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and Norway. Buyers will only find a USB-C to MagSafe 3 cable (2m) in the box.

The change comes as Apple complies with the EU’s Radio Equipment Directive, which aims to cut electronic waste by encouraging reuse of USB-C chargers. While the law requires companies to offer laptops without bundled chargers, Apple went a step further by removing them entirely from European boxes.

In contrast, MacBook Pro models sold in Canada and the U.S. still include a 70W USB-C power adapter by default. European customers must buy one separately — starting around €69 or £59 for the 70W model, or €85 / £79 for the faster 96W version. You can charge your MacBook Pro just fine with USB-C, but if you need it charged quickly, you’ll need a higher capacity power adapter.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman criticized Apple’s decision, saying it shifts costs to consumers rather than supporting sustainability goals.

“Yes, the EU requires companies to offer laptops without the charger in the box. But it was solely Apple’s decision to charge extra for it,” Gurman said on X. “To be clear, I find the law completely ridiculous. MacBooks require special chargers and can’t get away with any off-the-shelf component or a friend’s charger like a phone can.”

Previously, all 14-inch MacBook Pro models (2021 or later) included a charger alongside the MagSafe 3 cable.

To fast charge the 14-inch model, Apple recommends using a 96W or 140W USB-C power adapter with a MagSafe 3 cable or compatible Thunderbolt cable. The 70W adapter will still charge normally but not at full speed.

This is just the EU being the EU. While the move may save packaging waste, it ultimately increases consumer costs—and confusion—across Europe. Apple could just include an option to add a power adapter for free, but of course they don’t. You just need to pay for it like everybody else.