GoKawiilMicrosoft's Magnetic Connect uses standard USB-C, unlike Apple's proprietary MagSafe
Microsoft introduced Magnetic Connect, a magnetic charging solution for its new Surface Laptop Ultra that pairs a Power Delivery USB-C port with a magnetic cable using a funnel-shaped tip for easy alignment. Unlike Apple's proprietary MagSafe port, the underlying port remains standard USB-C, meaning it can be used for monitors, keyboards, phones or other peripherals when not charging. The Surface Laptop Ultra also includes two more USB-C ports, HDMI, USB-A, an SD card reader and a headphone jack.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Because Magnetic Connect sits on top of standard USB-C rather than a closed format, third-party and even unlicensed cables are likely to work reliably, unlike MagSafe accessories that function best only when bought from Apple at $49 each. Microsoft has signaled openness to other manufacturers adopting the technology, which could let it lead a broader ecosystem rather than keep the feature exclusive to Surface devices, though no licensing details have been confirmed. If adopted industry-wide, this could reduce the port-scarcity trade-off that magnetic charging ports usually impose on laptops.
- Magnetic Connect is built on standard USB-C with Power Delivery, not a proprietary port like MagSafe.
- The port can still be used for monitors, keyboards or phones when not charging.
- Microsoft hints at opening the technology to other manufacturers, unlike Apple's closed MagSafe ecosystem.
Microsoft Surface Laptop (Copilot+ PC) — This is the laptop that debuts Magnetic Connect, Microsoft's clever take on magnetic charging that frees up USB-C ports for monitors, keyboards, or phones. It's a great pick if you want a modern Copilot+ PC with flexible connectivity and a convenient magnetic charger that won't hog your only USB-C port.
See Microsoft Surface Laptop (Copilot+ PC) on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Roger Fingas, 2026-10-12
Published there as: “How is Microsoft's Magnetic Connect different from Apple's MagSafe for MacBooks?”
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