Apple M5 MacBook Pro Drops Charger in Europe, Contrary to EU Law Claims

Apple’s latest M5 MacBook Pro will not include a power adapter in its box for customers in the United Kingdom and European Union. This change was implemented quietly with the new laptop’s launch. The move has sparked online discussion and incorrect assumptions about its cause.

Many observers initially suggested the omission was a direct requirement of new European Union legislation. However, this interpretation of the EU’s Common Charger directive is not accurate. The company’s decision is a business and environmental choice, not a legal mandate.

Understanding the EU’s Common Charger Directive

The confusion stems from the EU’s 2022 Common Charger Directive. This legislation was designed to standardize charging ports across electronic devices. Its primary goal is to reduce electronic waste and increase consumer convenience.

The law mandates that all new smartphones, tablets, and laptops sold in the EU must feature a USB-C port for wired charging. It also requires manufacturers to offer consumers the option to purchase a new device without an accompanying charger. According to Reuters, the rule aims to prevent consumers from accumulating unnecessary chargers.

Crucially, the directive does not ban the inclusion of power adapters. It simply requires that a “no charger” option exists. Manufacturers remain free to include a charger in the box or offer it as a free add-on. Apple’s choice to remove it entirely for European customers goes beyond the legal requirement.

Apple’s Strategic and Environmental Rationale

This move is consistent with Apple’s longstanding environmental packaging strategy. The company first removed power bricks from iPhone boxes in 2020. It cited significant carbon emission reductions from smaller, lighter packaging.

The decision also simplifies Apple’s supply chain and logistics in Europe. By shipping one uniform box without a charger, the company avoids managing multiple product versions. This operational efficiency likely contributes to the cost savings partially reflected in some European pricing.

For customers, the impact is mixed. Those with compatible USB-C chargers will not be affected. However, new users must purchase a 70W or higher USB-C power adapter separately. This shifts an additional cost to the consumer at the point of sale.

The absence of a charger in the new M5 MacBook Pro box is a clear corporate strategy, not a forced compliance measure. This approach reinforces Apple’s control over its accessory ecosystem and packaging footprint.

Thought you’d like to know

Does the EU ban chargers in electronics boxes?

No, the EU does not ban chargers. Its Common Charger Directive requires manufacturers to offer a version of a device that can be purchased without one. Companies can still choose to include a charger by default.

What comes in the box with the new M5 MacBook Pro in Europe?

The box contains the M5 MacBook Pro and a MagSafe 3 cable. A compatible USB-C power adapter is not included and must be bought separately for an additional cost.

Can I use an old MacBook charger with the new M5 model?

Yes, you can. The M5 MacBook Pro supports charging via MagSafe 3 and USB-C. Older 67W, 96W, or 140W USB-C power adapters from previous MacBooks are fully compatible.

Why is the charger also missing in the UK?

The UK is no longer part of the EU and is not bound by its Common Charger Directive. Apple has chosen to apply the same packaging standard to the UK market for consistency and logistical simplicity.

Is the new laptop cheaper without the charger?

In several EU countries, the starting price is approximately €100 lower than the previous model. In the UK and other regions, the price remains the same as the prior generation, despite the missing accessory.