Does iPhone 17 Come with a Charger? Here’s What You Actually Get

When you unbox the new iPhone 17, you may wonder does iPhone 17 come with a charger, given Apple's shift in recent years. Since 2020, Apple has excluded chargers and earphones from iPhone boxes, a decision that continues with the iPhone 17. The decision to not include a charger has raised questions about convenience, especially for those upgrading from older iPhone models. This guide will explore exactly what comes in the iPhone 17 box, the reasoning behind Apple's decision to exclude the charger, and the best charging options available for your new device.

What's Included in the iPhone 17 Box

When you purchase an iPhone 17, you may be surprised by the minimal contents in the box. Here's a detailed look at what's actually included.

Apple's Packaging Philosophy: Minimalism vs Necessity

Apple's shift to minimalistic packaging is part of a broader environmental strategy. By removing chargers and accessories from the box, Apple reduces packaging size and weight, leading to less waste and more efficient shipping. This move aligns with Apple's long-term sustainability goals, though it may feel inconvenient for new buyers who expect more from their purchase.

What Accessories Are Actually Included

The iPhone 17 box includes only the essentials: the iPhone 17 itself and a USB-C to Lightning cable. This cable is designed to work with USB-C chargers, but the charger itself is not included. Also, there's no adapter, headphones, or power brick. While the phone is ready to connect to your other devices, you'll need to supply your own power source.

Comparison with Previous iPhone Generations

Previously, iPhones came with a charger, USB cable, and sometimes even accessories like earphones. With the iPhone 12, Apple stopped including the charging brick, following a similar approach with later models. The change became controversial, but Apple claims it's an environmental decision to reduce carbon footprints.

Why Apple Still Excludes Chargers

Apple's decision to exclude chargers from iPhone boxes may seem odd, but there are several reasons behind it. Let's explore the rationale behind this ongoing strategy.

Environmental Goals and E-Waste Reduction Claims

Apple argues that excluding chargers from the box helps reduce e-waste, as many users already own compatible chargers. With millions of older adapters still in circulation, Apple claims it's unnecessary to include new chargers with each new device. This move is also aligned with the company's larger environmental goals, such as reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainability.

Apple's Strategy Behind Accessory Upsells

Excluding the charger is also a clever business strategy. By not including a charger, Apple encourages users to purchase additional accessories, such as the official USB-C power adapter or MagSafe charger. This strategy boosts Apple's accessory sales, which is an additional revenue stream for the company. It's a win-win for Apple, as users who want faster charging or wireless charging will need to buy these extra products.

Consumer Backlash and Market Reactions

The exclusion of chargers hasn't come without backlash. Many consumers have voiced frustration, especially those upgrading from older iPhone models that came with all necessary accessories. Some feel Apple is taking advantage of its loyal customer base, while others simply prefer the convenience of having everything in one box. Despite the criticism, Apple has remained firm on its decision.

Best Charging Options for iPhone 17

Even without the charger, there are plenty of options for charging your iPhone 17 efficiently. Let's break down the best choices available.

Apple Certified USB-C Chargers vs Third-Party Brands

Apple's official USB-C charger offers the most reliable performance, but if you're looking for a more affordable option, the Anker 735 Charger is an excellent choice. This charger supports USB-C with Power Delivery (PD), providing fast and efficient charging for your iPhone 17. The Anker 735 Charger is compact, portable, and MFi-certified, ensuring both safety and optimal performance. Third-party chargers like this one are a great alternative, offering high performance at a lower price.

Is MagSafe Still Worth It in 2025?

MagSafe, introduced with the iPhone 12, continues to be a great option for wireless charging in 2025. If you're looking for a reliable and efficient MagSafe charger, the Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station is an excellent choice. This charger offers up to 15W of charging speed, providing a solid balance between speed and convenience. It's particularly convenient if you prefer a cable-free experience, but it's not as fast as USB-C wired charging. However, if you enjoy wireless charging, the Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station is still a solid choice, featuring MagSafe compatibility for precise alignment and efficient charging.

Recommendations for Fast and Safe Charging

For fast and safe charging, we recommend a USB-C to Lightning cable paired with an Apple-certified charger. If you prefer wireless charging, choose a MagSafe-compatible charger. Avoid using cheap third-party chargers that may not support Power Delivery or that lack safety certifications. For optimal battery health and performance, always opt for quality chargers and cables.

Conclusion

While does iPhone 17 come with a charger in the box? The answer is no, but there are still plenty of ways to keep your device powered up. Apple's decision to exclude the charger reflects a commitment to sustainability but also serves as a strategy to upsell additional accessories. Whether you choose an Apple-certified charger or go with a reliable third-party brand, it's important to choose options that provide fast and safe charging. As long as you know what you need, charging your iPhone 17 can be both convenient and efficient.

FAQs

Does iPhone 17 come with a USB-C cable?

Yes, the iPhone 17 comes with a USB-C to Lightning cable for charging and data transfer.

Can I use my iPhone 14 charger with iPhone 17?

Yes, you can use your iPhone 14 charger, but ensure it supports USB-C and Power Delivery for optimal charging speeds.

Is it better to buy Apple's official charger or a third-party one?

Both options work well, but Apple's official chargers ensure the best compatibility and performance. Third-party chargers can be more affordable but should be MFi-certified for safety.